Does Not Anticipate Changes To Its Existing Guidelines For Model Aircraft Pilots

The Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) has responded to the FAA's notice of proposed rulemaking on the Operation of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Over People. Overall, the AMA believes the proposed rulemakings on flying over people and night flying are a step toward opening the airspace for more commercial unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operators. For model aircraft hobbyists, however, they do not anticipate these rules will have a significant impact on their existing guidelines for safe and responsible operation.

"AMA represents nearly 200,000 model aircraft hobbyists across the country. Founded in 1936, we are the nation’s largest organization representing those who fly model aircraft for recreational and educational purposes. For years, our National Model Aircraft Safety Code has been recognized by Congress, as well as state legislatures, as a safe and effective means of managing the model aircraft community. Our members know where, when and how to fly safely and they do not present a risk to the airspace," the AMA said in its comments.

"Importantly, AMA’s safety code does not currently allow for flights over people. However, we do understand that some commercial applications present the need for UAS to fly over people for effective and efficient operations. We believe these operations should be allowed, provided they can be done safely and any potential risk to people on the ground is appropriately mitigated.

"In addition, AMA’s safety code allows night flying as long as a lighting system is in place that provides the pilot with a clear view of the model’s altitude and orientation at all times. We believe this policy continues to make sense and is similar to what the FAA is proposing.

"In 2016, AMA president Rich Hanson participated in the FAA’s Micro UAS Aviation Rulemaking Committee, which made recommendations on the regulatory framework for small UAS flights over people. At that time, we expressed some concerns about allowing recreational UAS flights over people primarily because of safety. In addition, we were concerned that the public would be sensitive to drones flying over their heads – concerns that are still valid today.

"We look forward to continuing to work closely with the FAA regarding the implementation of PL 115-254 Section 349, the new operating requirements for recreational UAS. As always, we are committed to ensuring the safety of our nation’s skies for all."

(Source: AMA)

FMI: www.modelaircraft.org