There is a lot of miscommunication centered around the FAA Registration Process. Below are a list of Frequently Asked Questions. Please check back as we will continue to add to this list. This post was updated on January 8, 2016 to address new questions.
Q: Do I as an AMA member need to register?
A: The Interim Final Rule on sUAS registration went into effect when published in the Federal Register on December 21, 2015. Modelers are given a 60-day grace period to register if they plan to fly their existing model aircraft and must register by February 19, 2016. If a hobbyist wants to fly any new models acquired after December 21, pilots must be registered before they can be flown.
Q: Is the Rule for registering model aircraft final?
A: No. Although the Rule is in effect, it is not necessarily in its final form. The FAA has established a 30-day public comment period to allow the public to make comment on the merits and aspects of the Rule that cause concern. Interested parties have until January 20, 2016, to submit comments and can do so online at, Regulations.gov. AMA highly encourages its members to submit comments to the Rule and has provided a list of talking points for our members to consider in developing their comments. These talking points can be found on the AMA Government Relations Blog at, https://amablog.modelaircraft.org/amagov/2015/12/28/guidance-on-submitting-comments-to-the-faas-interim-rule-on-uas-registration/. Once the comment period closes, the FAA will review and evaluate the comments and make adjustments to the Rule as deemed necessary and appropriate. The FAA will then publish a Final Rule in the Federal Register that becomes permanent unless changed by future rulemaking. Keep in mind that the FAA has no obligation to make any changes to the Rule based upon the public comments; however, they do have to publish a summary of the comments and explain their actions or lack thereof.
Q: What is AMA’s position on the Rule?
A: We believe the registration requirement is counter to the provisions provided by Congress in Section 336, of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012. In the “Special Rule for Model Aircraft” Congress expressly prohibits the FAA from promulgating rules or regulations for model aircraft. We also believe AMA membership already meets the intent of registration. It is unnecessary for members to register again through the FAA when they are already registered with the AMA. Therefore, we suggest AMA members hold on registering with the FAA until advised by the AMA or until the FAA’s legal deadline on February 19, while we work with the FAA in developing a streamlined process for making AMA membership compliant with the federal registration requirement. If successful, this will make the registration process seamless and transparent to our members and will have the added benefit of allowing members to continue using their AMA number as their registration number. This will also preclude the requirement to renew federal registration every three years provided AMA membership remains current. .
Q: How is the AMA addressing registration?
A: We cannot always control what the Federal Government mandates, but we can continue to advocate for our members and strive to lessen the burden imposed by unnecessary and overbearing regulation. We are working with legal counsel and exploring all of our options. You may recall that the AMA has an existing petition before the US Court of Appeals regarding the 2014 Interpretive Rule in which the FAA presented its interpretation of the “Special Rule for Model Aircraft”. This interpretation is the basis for including model aircraft in the registration process and has been the rationale for several other actions taken by the agency over the past year.
AMA spent months working with members of Congress and the FAA in drafting and establishing the 2012 Special Rule for Model Aircraft. This is a landmark piece of legislation that protects the long-standing hobby of model aviation from burdensome regulation and allows modelers to continue operating under a community-based set of guidelines as they have for decades. It is a piece of legislation that our members, our parents and our grandparents have earned over the past 100 years and through millions of safe and responsible flights in our nation’s airspace. It is a piece of legislation that must be upheld.
On a parallel track we are advocating for our members directly to the FAA. As mentioned previously, we are working to develop a more immediate solution aimed at streamlining the registration process for our members. Since there are viable solutions being seriously discussed, we feel confident in suggesting our members hold on registration for just a little longer.
Q: What can I do while the AMA is addressing registration?
A: You can help by making your voice heard with the FAA. Specifically we are asking all AMA members to submit comments on the FAA’s interim rule on registration. The deadline to submit comments is January 15, 2016. More details can be found at https://amablog.modelaircraft.org/amagov/2015/12/28/guidance-on-submitting-comments-to-the-faas-interim-rule-on-uas-registration/
Q: Can I use my AMA number as my registration number?
A: Possibly. We are advocating to allow members to use their AMA numbers. We believe an AMA membership already meets the intent of registration. It should not be necessary for our members to register again through the FAA when they are already registered with the AMA.
Q: Do only drones and multirotor pilots need to register?
A: The Interim Final Rule regarding sUAS registration requires all unmanned aircraft that are part of an unmanned aircraft system be registered. Being part of an unmanned aircraft system means aircraft that are flown using a ground-control system, such as a transmitter, in essence radio control model aircraft. This includes pilots who fly fixed-wing RC aircraft and helicopters, not just multirotors or drones. Any pilot flying models weighing between .55 pounds (or 250 grams) and 55 pounds is required to register.
Q: Do I have to register every aircraft?
A: No, you only need to register your name, physical address, and email address, but we suggest AMA members hold off on registration until advised by the AMA or the FAA legal deadline.
Q: When does registration start?
A: The FAA registration process began on Monday, December 21, 2015. The FAA requires modelers to register their existing aircraft by February 19, 2016. New models acquired after December 21st must be registered before they can be flown.
Q: How often do I need to register?
A: The FAA requires registration renewal every three years. However, as mentioned previously we are working on a streamlined process for our members that will preclude the requirement to renew federal registration provided AMA membership remains current.
Q: Is Control Line Exempt
A: Control line models are not controlled by a ground-control station, are not part of an unmanned aircraft system and as such are not required to be registered.
Q: Is Free Flight exempt?
A: Similarly, free flight models are not controlled by a ground-control station, are not part of an unmanned aircraft system and as such are not required to be registered.
Q: Can I fly over 400 feet?
A: Yes. As an AMA member you are allowed and expected to continue operating your model aircraft in accordance with the AMA Safety Code and related AMA safety documents as provided by Section 336, the Special Rule for Model Aircraft. Keep in mind that you must not interfere with manned aircraft operations, must remain well clear of manned aircraft at all times and must see and avoid all other aircraft and obstacles in accordance with AMA’s See & Avoid guidelines in Document #540-D. As a general safety principle model aircraft should not be flown any higher than necessary. However, as we all know there are some modeling activities that go above 400’and do so safely in accordance with AMA guidelines. There are also times it is actually safer to be at a slight higher altitude such as when training new pilots and operating larger or faster model aircraft..
Q: Can I fly my Large Model Aircraft?
A: Yes. The language from the FAA implies you cannot fly aircraft over 55 pounds; however, under the Special Rule for Model Aircraft AMA members are allowed to operate model aircraft over 55 lbs. provided they are certified under and operated in accordance with AMA’s Large Model Aircraft program.
Q: Can I fly turbine jets?
A: Yes, provided you hold a current AMA Turbine Waiver.
Q: What happens if I don’t register by February 19
A: The AMA will provide guidance as to how AMA members should register before the February 19 deadline. Per the FAA, failure to register an unmanned aircraft may result in regulatory and criminal sanctions. This could include civil penalties of up to $27,500 and criminal penalties that include fines of up to $250,000 and/or imprisonment for up to three years.
Q: Can I continue to fly while holding on registration?
A: Yes. Aircraft acquired before December 21, 2015, can continue to fly until the registration deadline on February 19, 2016. Aircraft acquired after December 21, 2015, must be register before you can operate it outdoors.
What penalties, if any, does the FAA propose for failure to register?
Who is responsible for enforcing the regulation?
The number that I’ve seen most often for failure to register seems to be $27,500 with $250,000 is an incident causes damages.
try to collect 27.5 K from me for this “violation”.
I’ll sue for prosecutorial misconduct…
File with the US Marshals for FAA violations of my rights per sec. 336.
Semper Fi
govt. punks
Where were you in 1972 jerks?
class action civil rights
A “Drone” is any person who mindlessly follows what the government demands of them like the registering of flying toys by the FAA.
“Hello, I’m from the government and I am here to help you.”
The choice is yours.
Actually, you have a valid argument under the eighth amendment of the Constitution. 27K is clearly an excessive fine prohibited by the eighth amendment. The fact that they call it a “civil penalty” shows they are trying top circumvent the Constitution.
I think you’ll find that any law enforcement officer will climb on the band wagon just to make a name for him or herself. For instance, with a break in the weather I decided to take my Carbon Cub to the local park for a quick fix, and out of the corner of my eye noticed a CPD black & white pull up. The officer watched me fly until I landed, then came over and asked if I was registered. I showed him my FAA registration card and number on the wing of my .80 Lb. Cub at which time he got in his black & white and drove away. I’m glad I registered. After 20 + years in the military registering doesn’t seem a hard thing to swallow, but that’s just me.
Jack Tatum AMA 119934
And how do we think the FAA is going to respond to such active opposition?
For all I know, they might start monitoring purchases.
lol. I build my planes from “sticks”…how are they going to “monitor my purchase”? They are going to watch me buy toothpicks?
Frank, would we prefer to NOT have an active opposition, instead simply bending over and taking it? To be honest, I don’t think this opposition is nearly active enough.
Note, the FAA currently requires a UAS pilot to pass an exam and a physical. Will this also apply to R/C pilots who are now classified as “UAS” pilots?
1) What registration mechanism exists for those who do not hold a credit card?
2) Is Feb 19 actually a registration deadline, or does it mean we can fly without registration until Feb 19?
3) If we do not fly after Feb 19 until perhaps Mar 29, when do we have to register?
In my reading, it seems that “before you fly” is the key determinant of when you have to be registered. So kids who get a $1,000 drone for Christmas and a RC pilot who’s been flying a model Spitfire for 40 years with no problems, both have to register before their next flight, then they can BOTH fly anywhere like crazy FAA bureaucrats.
I wish everyone would stop using the word “Drone” to represent quad or Multi rotor. Drones are what the government uses to spy on us and our allies.
You are half right: the kid with the “new” toy he received for Christmas (after Dec 21, 2015) has to register before he can fly it. The RC pilot who has been flying a model Spitfire for 40 years (obviously, before Dec 21, 2015) has until Feb 19, 2016 to register.
Quad-copters and tri-copters are not ‘drones.’
Civilians can not own ‘drones.’
‘Drones’ carry radar, infared, missles and other armaments.
Only the military has ‘drones.’
It is the media and the advertisers that continue to call them ‘drones.’
Which is damaging to all of us.
They are quad-copters or tri-copters.
When ever they are referred to as a ‘drone’ we need to correct them.
It is just another excuse to hire more government employees to process the forms and issue more needless regulations and fines.
We will need to get Webster to re-write the dictionary then. They seem to take the broad approach.
Drone
an unmanned aircraft or ship that can navigate autonomously, without human control or beyond line of sight:
(loosely) any unmanned aircraft or ship that is guided remotely:
a radio-controlled drone.
Quads can be flown autonomously and out of line of sight.
BL, I agree 100%. I’ve been saying that from the very first time I heard a quadcopter referred to as a “drone.” The problem is the AMA embraced the term rather than rejecting it and even sanctioned “drone” contests and published “drone” articles in Model Aviation magazine. It has been very disturbing every time I’ve seen anything like that. You can correct all you want but when the AMA chooses to do just the opposite and lead everyone down the wrong path from the start it’s a hopeless effort. A little common sense would have gone a long way a few years ago to stomp out a misconception and now it’s too late. I really feel like the AMA has let us all down in a big way starting several year ago. It remains to be seen just how much of an adverse effect their neglegence will ultimately have on our hobby…
I agree with what you have said with the exception that manufacturers are now coming out with MultiRotor Systems that do carry IR sensors and that are marketed for regular consumers for the ranching a farming industries… I own 2 hobby shops and it drives me crazy when people call them drones!
Sorry…but we do not call them “Drones” in USAF ACC or AFSOC circles. They are RPAs..remotely piloted aircraft…NOT autonomous drones! Yes, the USAF (and USN) does have some autonomous drones but even those are pre-programmed and — for the most part — constantly monitored by a human pilot. Pure artificial intelligence autonomous “drone” systems are still in development. But back to the issue at hand. If I’m an AMA member in good standing and compliance, why should I have to register with the FAA?? And why should I have to register my fixed wing 6lb aircraft at all? 255 grams?? They got to be kidding. They should have focused on type/classification of “toy” and “hobby” drones weighing indeed more than 255 grams (quads or rotors) that exceed certain range, altitude and speed parameters or our used for commericial ops. And any system with a FPV capability (or even camera) should be registered (if for no other reason, privacy concerns). Just my humble opinion. Ex-Pred/MQ-1B pilot (not drone operator).
They aren’t regulating ‘drones.’ They are regulating UASs. ‘Drone’ is just a nickname in this context. How you define ‘drone’ is irrelevant. It’s how they define UAS that matters. UAS encompasses all unmanned aircraft, a group in which all drones, model aircraft, Etc. are a subset.
Because the FAA appears to be set on lumping model aircraft into the full-scale aircraft registration system, will AMA fight to make certain modelers private information is kept private–not available to private individuals who may see our number in a photograph, in person, etc.?
The one thing I can not understand is why FAA wants to lump us under all aircraft that fly must be registered and a registration number. The main difference I see
is that commercial and general aviation aircraft must file a flight plan before
getting airborne ! This has never been the case for model aircraft, not even for
the Wright Brothers !! If they want to control or ban a part of this hobby, look
to FPV multirotors. Almost everyone you hear about is in the flight path of a
full scale aircraft. Even the bigger multirotors can’t been seen with the naked
eye at that altitude ! Progress is fine, but when it starts becoming dangerous,
it is time to put a halt to that area !!!
Its not the FAA. Congress made the stipulation that model aircraft are the same as full scale aircraft when it comes to the N.A.S.
Most commercial flights (there are exceptions)need to file some type of flight plan. However, general aviation, what we refer to as part 91 flights, don’t necessarily have to file anything. VFR (not in the clouds) no flight plan required.
Where do you get any requirement full scale has to file a flight plane?
Seriously if you don’t know what you’re talking about please ask someone before you post.
Irrespective of FAA dogma you are not registering your model. You are registering yourself.
Personally I think the FAA’s interpretation that aircraft flown within limitation such as the AMA provides, in VLOS, in cooperation with nearby airports etc being treated the same as full scale aircraft for regulatory purposes is a slippery slope that no one knows where the bottom is. Regardless of the type of model AMA members fly, fixed, rotary or multi rotor we fly within a VERY narrowly defined set of operating parameters that have proven to have zero impact on full scale. This is quite simply why the FAA should not waste taxpayer dollars chasing ghosts.
I have been saying that since they have introduced the FPV.
they have to separate that equipment that uses GPS from us
line of sight flyers. AMA should do the same.
There is no requirement that commercial or GA aircraft file a flight plan before flight, unless the flight will be conducted under instrument flight rules, and even then a flight plan can be filed after takeoff. Under visual flight rules, the only use for a flight plan is to give a starting point for a search if you do not arrive at your destination. There is no requirement to file a flight plan before a VFR flight, and most VFR GA flights are conducted without one.
There are some very limited exceptions to what I said about not needing a flight plan, such as a special airspace area in the Washington, D.C. area, and when a temporary flight restriction (TFR) is in place, such as over a special event – most common is an outdoor stadium with a college or pro game in progress. Those are exceptions, though; in most of the country, most flights do not require flight plans, certainly under visual flight rules.
Will AMA members be required to pay the Feds (FAA) the $5.00 (waived if you register early) if AMA members do hold of registering? Hope not!
Started my application then I realized I still had to pay $5 then wait for my refund, so I decided to wait for the AMA to do their best and maybe I won’t have to give them my credit card number and renew every three years. Our government has to sent their employees to ethics school regularly and it would stun most people what those individuals consider ethical. If they make it possible to pay with money order or palpal I would recommend it.
What a mess… regarding 400 feet.. FAA clearly states (not implied) not to fly over 400 feet (https://www.faa.gov/news/updates/?newsId=84384“… who’s going to take one for the team and challenge the FAA
We should all “take one for the team.” Every last one of us. We should all go out and fly in absolute disregard of these new regulations. I figure if every modeler goes out and does so, they aren’t going to come get us all. I figure all we really need to do is give every illegal alien pouring over the southern border, and every refugee a model airplane and some quick lessons, and this administration won’t touch it or even acknowledge it any longer.
The way I look at it.I can drop AMA and join the FAA and save $225 over three years! Of course I’ll have to quit my local club saving me an extra $150 over that time. I can however now go fly uninsured in any park or schoolyard without all the rules of the AMA getting in my way!
Great attitude, Hayden Butcher. Just great. That is exactly the kind of flying that has gotten us to this point where the FAA sees the need to intervene.
People flying anywhere they please without regard to surroundings. I’ve seen knuckleheads fly a .60 size airplane into a school building on a weekend. I’ve seen a .40 size airplane drop into a soccer field in the middle of a game with 8-10 year old kids.
I’ve arrived at a local park with a small scale electric, about 2 lbs. to encounter a pair of idiots with a giant scale flying with houses within 500 feet. First thing we asked each other was “what frequency you on?” Next the two proceeded to tell me hoe they hate AMA because the first thing the clubs try to do is enforce frequency control … ummmm, what was the first thing we asked each other?
I watched them “fly” for a few minutes before making a wise retreat. They weren’t “flying,” they were all over the place hoping to avoid ground contact as the plane headed well over the tree line towards the houses. By the way, a 40cc class two stroke unmuffled.
These are the same people who complain about the AMA and “rules.” They are the reason that the FAA is stepping in as the market moves from hobby level to toy level presentation of the product with no orientation toward proper training.
And the AMA by the way does not have “rules.” The AMA promotes a Safety Code. Try as folks might to poke holes in it, I have yet to see where it goes against that rare commodity called “common sense.”
That is not why the FAA intervened The FAA intervened because new technology has now made it possible to fly any RC model beyond the controllers line of sight. Hayden’s idea is brilliant! Its a great way to save the money needed to pay for the FAA’s latest ruling… “Any aircraft that can stay aloft longer than 5 minutes must be equipped with a flight recorder”…
One last thing BobbyG, is frequency a drug? If so where do get some? What frequency was the knucklehead who flew into the school building on?
Surely things do need to be discussed with the DOT and FAA. As of this past Friday it has been established that the FAA has intent, in the near future, of posting owner, address and registration number on the FAA site ( the same as full size aircraft). This in my mind posses a problem in that anyone can then glean your or my registration info and insert that number into an RC model they have in their possession and fly that model with erroneously obtained ownership info. Anyone with other than honest intentions can put or I under the microscope of the FAA, DHS, DOT, etc. It is a bad idea to publicly publish RC craft owners particulars as it would be so simple to hide ones real identity.
Greg, Your comments are SPOT ON! Lots of luck to seeing the FAA back down.
The unredacted disclosure of addresses is a violation of the Privacy Act of 1974. I’ve heard some news reports that various civil rights groups, and a couple of people in congress are looking into changing that. It is the only reason that I have not, adn will not be registering.
I registered today at this address ( https://registermyuas.faa.gov/ ). Entire process was well less than five minutes from start to finish, far from “an undue burden.” Numbering convention seems to be completely different than AMA’s.
All except the giving them your credit card number , scares the crap out of me. At the IRS they have to teach people WHY IT”S improper the give out financial information.
Don’t listen to Frank. He’s pro FAA, More than likely an FAA Official that’s trying to coerce you, ILLEGALLY, to voluntarily register.
What Section 336 specifically says is, in essence is this;
I know there are some that are going to lament when I say this but here goes,
We are only exempt if we are part of an Organization (AMA) that promotes Safety and we fly aircraft (ANY AIRCRAFT) as long as it is being flown in the line of sight and endangers NO ONE or ANYTHING.
Whether we like it or not, that’s in essence what Section 336 says.
With that being said, one can only speculate if the AMA lobbied Congress to word it in such a way to require ALL R/C Model Aircraft builders and flyers to belong to an “Organization” that promotes safety guidelines, which I’m sure the Insurance Companies promoted as well. We all know that most laws are created and drafted by the damned insurance companies. The government doesn’t listen or hear the voice of We The People. The government only hears the ones with the BIG money.
It would be a MAJOR mistake, especially so, to voluntarily register with the FAA. Be aware if you do choose to do so, you are nullifying your RIGHT to fly in NAS. As soon as the FAA is done getting ALL of the voluntary registrations they can, they will go back to Congress and lobby to nullify Section 336.
I can see where the FAA will not do away with registration to some extent. And that is I believe any one NOT wanting to be a Member of an Organization that promotes safety(think AMA), will have to register with the FAA, just like ANY other pilot that flies Full scale aircraft does and they will be at the FAA’S mercy.
Think about it…….
I’ve heard you can pay with a gift card…
Good for you, Frank! When they tell you to register your Bible, and your pappy’s shotgun, you’ll probably do that equally happily.
The FAA registration process requires this:
“I will fly below 400 feet”
“I have read, understand, and intend to follow the safety guidance”
“You must acknowledge the safety guidance in order to continue the registration process”
Using the website, there is no way to register a glider or large scale / turbine aircraft, with the intention of operating above 400′, without making a false statement to the FAA. How are we to register model aircraft intended for legal operations under Sec. 336, but which exceed the 400′ altitude criteria required to register via the FAA sUAS registration website?
If registration of these models will not be allowed, is there basis for a class action lawsuit?
AMA leadership note this: If you are (unfortunately) ineffective at changing the registration process, specifically the pledge to fly below 400 feet, please be careful to include specific response to the membership on the implication for all AMA sailplane pilots and operations at AMA fields. Please don’t be like the FAA and ignore or forget us.
I sign up to the federal I also have a a number for ama let me know know what u are doing with they new rule
I am afraud that the FAA will require telemetry in our planes to show us our aircraft altitude. My radio system has that capability now.
And since FAA now considers flying model airplanes and helicopters as aircraft in the same sense that full-scale airplanes or helicopters are, for the purpose of regulation, could they now construe it as illegal to place an “N-number” on that model, as we do for scale models to faithfully represent the full-scale counterpart? Those numbers are not actually assigned to our “aircraft” and could be seen by over-zealous FAA inspectors, lawyers, or local law enforcement as deceptive or fraudulent markings. All kinds of off-the-wall scenarios are possible, but when you’re dealing with the FAA, never dismiss anything as absurd.
That’s actually a very good comment. Folks who engage in fine scale modeling, and of whom I stand is awe, really try to duplicate the target aircraft entirely, including the tail number. Faithfulness to all details enters into the final judging score. Hopefully, calmer heads will prevail so that these amazing craftsmen can pursue their hobby. Additionally, many “scaley” models have fictitious N numbers on their sides (i.e. the E-Flight Bonanza, which has an N number, N1456B, actually assigned to a Luscombe).
Interestingly, a similar case arose in the FCC a few years back when assigning a set of aircraft callsigns. These were found to duplicate the (at that time) new N-series amateur callsigns. The FCC assured all concerned that they could distinguish between the amateur operators and aircraft.
I believe the reason for the list is very simple. The minute that a UAS actually hits an aircraft or causes injury to anyone they will use it as a means to crack down on those ON said list. I’ve heard people say that it’s used to just get people in the mindset of safety, and we all have to register our cars. The problem is this we are in a Severe minority. Most people drive cars but only a small fraction fly RC. The first accident or injury that can be used publicly against us will be. I’m flying a model airplane not a UAS defined by the military. But now the government we elected has changed the definitions to include our community. My prediction is that those who get on the list will loose their privilege to fly while those who break the rules will continue to break the rules and fly. It’s a sad day for everyone not just our community.
And just watch what happens to the hobby when somebody, somewhere, uses a “drone” in a “terrorist attack”. Bound to happen someday…
Jake, the military definition of a UAS is irrelevant. Only the definition of the FAA matters in this regulation. Defining terms such as this is a part of the regulation itself.
The FAA’s definition may conflict with the definitions of model aircraft under 336, and if so, that matters. The military definition does not matter, and never will matter.
The AMA laid down the only way out is a stay on the order and let the courts fight it out
ama spend some of the money your members give you, not just for your paychecks
Is your database publicly searchable like the FAA?
No, the database is not publicly accessible.
Frankly, I am sickened by the timidity and submissiveness of the American people. This is another open-ended attack on our liberty, and most Americans will just take it. I think the AMA should exhaust all legal options, and I mean all, and that ought to include a general “fly-in” at every club field in America, assuming we can round up enough actual Americans to show up and eeeek… violate the regulations in unison. [Oh my!]
The Federal government does not follow its own regulations half of the time. It almost never follows the laws and the constitution that were written specifically to constrain and limit it. Meanwhile, the American public, now comprised mostly of timid, bleating sheep, stands around and complains a minute (though not too loudly) while their liberties are stripped away one at a time. Don’t any of you ever get worried that you’re too easily ceding far too much ground? Don’t any of you know how to sack-up anymore?
This regulatory power-grab is despicable, but what agitates me to absolute exhaustion is the mewling, cowering country of weaklings that will stand by and take it. Patrick Henry would vomit.
Ahmen
I think we all need to step back and take a breath here. The FCC is trying to prevent the possible injury or loss of life from a midair collision. The FCC has been forced to act because there have been way too many close calls. Helicopters are especially at risk with their rotor blades. A down hill skier was almost killed today when a very large commercial quad crashed right behind him. I can live with flying under 400 ft if it will make all flying safer. But I don’t think I could live with accidentally killing someone. AMA members follow the rules. It is the non-member rogues who are ruining it for all of us. We should be reporting these rogues if we value our sport.
It’s the FAA, not the FCC. Flying below 400 feet will not work for sailplanes – most of these guys fly around 1000+ feet. Before you give up your rights so easily, take another breath and realize that there are others with different requirements than yours, and they might just have a legitimate problem with this stupid rule.
I meant FAA. And yes I did think about sail planes and they should get a special exemption. I think the 400 ft rule is when you are flying within five miles of an airport. But I may be wrong about that to.
I believe you pay your $5, put a sticker on your plane and go flying as usual.
On the other hand this administration seems to suck every dollar out of anywhere they can. The way they are blackmailing banks and other corporations is downright criminal. I’m a stock investor and the things I read about the fines corporations have to pay is downright sicking.
Since our models are now “aircraft”, could we now be cited for landing on a (model)runway that is clearly marked with an “X”, indicating that it is closed? Most paved model airport runways I have seen carry this mark to discourage use by manned light aircraft.
What happens after the FAA’s legal deadline on February 19th. Does every body pay a fine or go to jail? All this is another way to tax us.Go after the people who do not belong to AMA. This just show every body how stupid the FAA is.
What happens after the FAA’s legal deadline on February 19th.
It comes to no surprise to me that FAA regulation was coming sooner or later, even a couple of years back. I live in nyc, and I bet most of the several incidents that occurred involved RC pilots who are non-AMA members and don’t have a clue on how to fly anything responsibly. The quadcopters are extremely popular these days and are sold in most department stores, shopping malls, etc. and some are quite sophisticated to operate. There has been a lot of wreck less incidents involving not just quadcopters but laser devices. I never hear any of the sellers of such devices in most stores I go to mention anything about the FAA Rules or anything about the option to become a member of the AMA organization and any rules for that matter on how to responsibly flying these model aircraft. Although I have been to a couple of hobby stores that have recommended the AMA. Perhaps the FAA or local Government should make the sellers at least mention these options. Educating the purchasing public, and new hobbyists alike is key to preventing future incidents. Although there will always be the few who will choose to go astray and do what ever this wish with or without the rules. I did notice today the local airport website in NYC did post a link for what they call drone rules by the FAA. By the way I have been an AMA member for several years.
Yeh, saw a multi on sale at the local hardware store recently. No evidence of warning for personal safety let alone how to use it responsibly and consistent with safety of the NAS. Asked if they were recommending AMA and they asked what’s AMA? I am afraid the few serious incidents are going to just explode in frequency.
What a mess indeed, Nice work AMA. Hope you are happy and well funded with all of the new AMA drone members.
Still,nobody can answer a simple question- what if you dont have a credit/ debit/ etc. card? I DONT put my card # out there and how many teenagers have their own cards(since they must register too). Mr Foxx and Mr Huerta were in such a hurry to make themselves look important, they neglected to provide the ability for all individuals to sign up. So… Now what?
I hold an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate and have been flying models and full size airplanes most of my life (over 40 years). Remember,the FAA owns the airspace from the ground to infinity and makes the flight rules. The folks that we need to worry about are the renegades that do not comply with anything. I recently heard the following at a hobby shop after the shop owner suggested that AMA membership was an asset and the insurance was good. “No person or organization is going to tell me what to do or how to fly; I dropped my car and house insurance, so why should I spend more money to get insurance?” The individual purchased a $1500 Quad with camera. These are the folks that “text” while driving, drink while driving, use there laser pointer or lights to blind pilots, etc. To make things worse, I can get a loan to buy the “drone” and make payments on it for months. It really doesn’t make sense. I don’t know how to regulate “stupidity.”
I heard much the same while sitting at a bar waiting for a table at a restaurant a few months back. A commercial came on with a multicopter and some patron started talking about buying one and what he was going to do with it. When I suggested he join AMA and our club and be trained he went off about rules etc and said what he was going to do with his drone. I calmly explained what he wanted to do was dangerous to both people on the ground and in the air and was exposing him to a huge liability. He blew me off. His wife seemed to get it, hopefully she can throttle him.
You regulate stupidity with regulations that create civil & criminal liability; ignorance of the law is no excuse (unless you happen to have ‘Affluenza’). Then there are the pilots that claim to have had near misses with hobby drones while flying along at or close to 200 kts. and are a mile high. Have you EVER been able to see any bird in the air under similar conditions unless you happened to have hit it first (bird strike reports almost always say the pilot claims the bird hit THEM!)? I know I haven’t in thousands of hours of PIC time. These drones can climb at best at an average of 300’/min. for about 10-15 min. at full throttle. You do the math! They can barely get up there with no power left to loiter and then drop like a rock. Maybe these are the same guys that claim to have seen UFO’s?!? There are stupid people in all walks of life.
Actually, I HAVE seen birds on occasion well flying along at or close to 200Kts IAS (less than 250Kts below 10K AGL) and “at altitude”…during climb-out or an en-route descent. But admittedly it was “hit or miss” (poor choice of words)…and highly dependent on sky/cloud conditions, horizon back-drop, FOV and ‘chance’ (as in, I wasn’t heads down at the time). I’ve even seen birds well above 10K AGL. How they got that high I’ll never know. “Drones” might be easier to spot (during day VFR) as they are at about 3 ft diameter (min) and dark contrast. You usually don’t see sparrows up there…but more like gulls and buzzards. Not that it matters. Your point is well taken. Manned pilots generally speaking don’t like drones or anything else that might ruin their day — especially commercial pilots in/around airports and departure/arrival routes. So they probably are embellishing ‘drone sightings’ a bit. But they can be quite visible nonetheless….especially when relatively “static” in front of you depending on relative motion and sky conditions. Former KC-135 jockey…
If you actually had the hours you claim, or any you would know that birds are seen ALL the time by pilots. 200 knots or 400 knots I can tell the difference between a bird and a UAS when they come within close proximity to my aircraft.
Once again people posting without having the knowledge or experience needed to know what the heck they are talking about.
Reality, In nearly twenty thousand hours over thirty years of flying I can’t tell you how many birds I’ve seen. Occasionally we see the mylar party balloons that get away at pretty high altitudes and they are very easy to identify as they drift by regardless of our speed. In all that time I’ve never seen a UAS from an aircraft where they shouldn’t be. I can spot them occasionally below us because I know where many model fields are located. This doesn’t mean we should not be concerned about UAS and the potential for a mid air. It sure as hell doesn’t make me a liar if I do see one out of place and report it. Still I believe as does the AMA leadership that the FAA’s numbers of incidents are highly suspect and challenges to the FAA to review their numbers remain unanswered.
Calling professional pilots who report interference from UAS liars is a horrible tactic if you’re actually trying to argue intelligently.
As a fellow professional aviator and modeler I share your angst Jim. You, as I, have dealt with stupid pilots not only operating contrary to CFRs but common sense safety. It’s an old story. We have also dealt with the FAA and know its character and the only tool it seems to have to address stupid is the hammer of regulation. The rest of us are just collateral damage. But I suppose that’s the nature of all governments. Problem is our noble hobby is now lumped into the same category as the stupid toy operators and will now share their fate. The FAA is reacting to the proliferation of these flying appliances popularized as drones like a person with arachnophobia killing a spider with a hand grenade. Kills the spider, but also destroys the house. To expect the FAA to change its spots is to suffer acute disappointment. Congress gave the FAA the green light with its Section 336 be damned ruling that anything that flies is an aircraft. This of course to quiet the fears of the sheep in the general population. So there you go, the human nature of politics. BTW – I am an AMA member and shall resist.
It is my intention at this point to give the AMA time to review legal and political options. I see my membership as registration already combined with my marking of my models as required by the safety code. That said if those efforts by the AMA fail or do not result in action by the deadline I will comply with registration and move on, enjoying the hobby I love.
I would like to know how much money the gov. will take in when it’s all said and done.
!. How many R/Cers are their in the US today?
2. How many persons does the government have to enforce these rules?
PROBLEM:
To keep up with all the modelers they will have to hire and train a multitude
of people at gargantuan expense (Note the primate reference) but they cannot
afford to give Social Security recipients a cost of living raise because the
cost of living has not gone up. (Have you grocery shopped lately?).
AMA membership has increased in price and now BIG BROTHER wants to get into my
pocket for 5 bucks. 5 bucks isn’t much you’ll say,but it is significant
when living on a fixed income and trying to enjoy my sport.
The US government with all it’s many administrations can GO POUND SAND to put it nicely
I would still like to see an AMA official comment on the agreement to stay below 400 feet required during the registration process. It is all well and good to say “Follow 336”, but the registration process clearly requires agreement to a new altitude limitation. Worse, 400 feet has become a de facto limit in the minds of law enforcement, the public, media, and local governments. I want to see a clear statement from the FAA that they are not requiring all models to stay below 400 feet. I will not register until that is made clear. Nothing I fly can be enjoyed below 400 feet (IMAC, pattern, soaring). SO if this stands, then I guess I’ll go back to running boats!!
quote;
Q: Can I fly over 400 feet?
A: Yes. As an AMA member you are allowed and expected to continue operating your model aircraft in accordance with the AMA Safety Code and related AMA safety documents as provided by Section 336, the Special Rule for Model Aircraft.
I disagree. After Feb 19th when all Model Aircraft owners have to register with the FAA, we will have to Acknowledge the Safety Guidance during registration, which includes, (quote)
“I will fly below 400′”
then digitally check off a box that says, (quote)
” I have read, understand and intend to follow the safety guidance”..
as part of the FAA mandatory registration process.
I fail to see how the AMAs Safety Code will protect us from FAA Enforcement Action, if our sailplanes stray above 400′ after we have digitally agreed to, and “intend to follow the Safety Guidance” parameters from the FAA.
Who wants to be a test case?
Yes. It appears to me that the wording “I will fly below 400 feet.” could be interpreted as a contract between the registrar (FAA) and the registrant.
Ray, Your comment is Spot On!
What if we just don’t register and keep a copy of 336 with us along with the FAA’s new “rule” instead of our registration number. If congress gives the right to the FAA to create administrative laws and congress says to exclude us, how could we be arrested or grounded for following congressional law when we have the proof on us?
Don’t count on 336 because I would bet Congress would most enthusiastically support its demise. Contact your representative and ask his/her position on it. It’s a good chance you won’t like the answer.
The A.M.A. is hiding it’s head in the sand if they think that we are safe from a 400 foot rule. Read the agreement every register is REQUIRED to sign, (making it in effect a legal document). The very first line states “I WILL FLY BEOW 400 FEET”. The word WILL is an absolute, it does not include any wiggle room, like ‘when conditions require”. As this is separate from the line of sight agreement, it is not only redundant but also a covert bait and switch. Let one prosecutor bring this up in court and win and guess what? It is no longer an agreement, IT BECOMES A LAW.
Please, do not Ass-U-Me you are safe. The FAA has already blatantly acknowledged they are aware of 366. Which you might also re-read, as it contains a loophole which DOES allow the FAA to require registration, if it is deemed to be in the public’s safety.
as a snowbird Canadian flying in Florida I find I cannot register because I am not a US citizen I am a member of MAAC and am covered the same a AMA. What will happen at contests and events where fliers fromaround the world attend?
bill,
I live near the Canadian border, and I was thinking I will drive to Canada to fly my sailplanes. Legally.
Sorry guys, but if this stands the AMA becomes pretty irrelevant. I am disappointed the AMA is not going after this registration ruling much more aggressively. It may be the last year a lot of members renew.
You are now learning what it is to live in a police state. This law is to force lawless people to buy a lic and mark their “drone” with a # so that when they blow something up or fly it into a full size plane the feds will be able to trace them down by finding the id # on the drone.
It is just like all the gun laws. Have you ever heard of a criminal obeying the gun laws? It is all about fed complete control just like any other police state.
I am sure this has been addressed, but if not, may I make a suggestion? Can you PLEASE put more accuracy and consistency around the FQAs? When we have to register with the FAA, we are registering as pilots of 1 to many UAS. The language here is contradicting and if AMA is using this type of language to work with the FAA, it is and will not get us very far.
Here is an example:
Q: Do I have to register every aircraft?
A: No, you only need to register your name, physical address, and email address, but we suggest AMA members hold off on registration until advised by the AMA or the FAA legal deadline.
Q: Can I continue to fly while holding on registration?
A: Yes. Aircraft acquired before December 21, 2015, can continue to fly until the registration deadline on February 19, 2016. Aircraft acquired after December 21, 2015, must be register before you can operate it outdoors.
My suggestion:
A: Yes. If you are operating an aircraft acquired before December 21, 2015, you can continue to fly until the registration deadline on February 19, 2016. If you are operating an aircraft acquired after December 21, 2015, you must register yourself by February 19, 2016 before operating the newly acquired aircraft.
Kevin, I am in exact agreement with your comment and suggestion! It drives me nuts to hear our organization parrot the miscommunication of the government agency. Nowhere in any of the literature, website or anything coming from FAA is there a way to register individual model aircraft. No one will be registering “their planes”. We will all be registering ourselves as users of UAS’s with no distinction of which type we use. Any comments or direction to ” register your plane, quad, drone or whatever under current FAA rule is false and misleading!
1. If my rc models are now “aircraft”, do I need an A&P license to work on them?
2. What will the FAA use to measure 400′ AGL while the FAA representative is standing behind me while I fly?
What I would like to know is if there will be FAA inspectors at our sanctioned events and airshows. At many full size airshow there are FAA personnel in attendance to make sure operations are within safety standards. Since we all are lumped into the same air space, won’t it apply? Will the FAA or law enforcement be at be at our sanctioned events to make sure each aircraft carries a registration number or doesn’t fly higher than 400 feet and have their citation book in hand ready to hand out tickets? Will the FAA be in attendance at AMA Nats this summer ready to hand out citations for infractions?
There may be 180,000 AMA members, but , don’t forget there are 500,000 out there who own the drones, do not have the slightest idea of the, so called, registration requirement, or the AMA. Who’s gonna make them register?? Remember, BIG BROTHER IS WATCHING OVER YOU.
Anybody over 70 should not have to register,comon guys think about it! Thanks K.D.
Yeah, great idea, discriminate by age. Thanks!
Laser pointers seem to be on the National news as often as quad copters. Let’s make them register laser pointers too!
Wonder how many organizations other than AMA are out there that represent “uas” aircraft. I saw where approx 30 sites were closed when the DC no fly zone was expanded but I think less than half were AMA fields.
Just wondering if FAA allows AMA exception to registering would that allow other organizations to do the same, and if so wouldn’t that create a bigger mess.
This may end up like many countries in that RC flyers would be required to join an organization sanctioned by the aviation regulating authority such as in New Zealand’s and its CAA. This is the case in the U.S. with the International Council of Air Shows (ICAS). Aerobatic pilots must belong to and be qualified by ICAS to perform in airshows. The FAA issues a Statement of Aerobatic Competency Card (SAC) based on the recommendation of ICAS. So being licensed to fly your RC model aircraft isn’t that far fetched.
I just started flying a couple years ago, but since that time the FAA has made increasingly draconian demands that I simply will no longer tolerate.
I will not register with the FAA to fly a 250 gram plane…period…and if that means giving up RC, so be it.
I refuse to spend my remaining years on this earth cowing down to some fascist at the FAA. I’m done with this Mickey Mouse crap.
I think I’ll use my annual AMA/Club membership to buy a new depth finder and go fishing.
Good luck to you all.
Assuming an AMA member decides not to register before the February deadline and continues to fly, will the AMA insurance cover them against liabilities?
If we must register. Use the club you are in to register with FAA and everyone in club use the same number and have paper work on ya. This is what I think. Let FAA sort that one out.
Here is the comment I just submitted to Regulations dot gov (I’m utterly sick of incompetent government bureaucrats):
Greetings:
This note is to express my opinion that the proposed requirement for model aircraft operators to register with the Federal Government is an outrageous imposition on the freedom and privacy of American citizens. Furthermore, it is counter to the provisions set forth by Congress in Section 336, of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012. In the “Special Rule for Model Aircraft” Congress expressly prohibits the FAA from promulgating rules or regulations for model aircraft. As a member of the Academy of Model Aeronautics for more than four decades, my activity is well documented and per AMA regulations I already provide identification on or within every aircraft model that I operate.
I knew from the very beginnings of the negotiations with AMA representatives that you bureaucrats were simply humoring them in order to be able to say that you gave their input thoughtful consideration. It is standard operating procedure nowadays to ignore the will of the American public and implement whatever plans you decide. You pass new laws, collect revenues, and then selectively enforce those laws which are politically convenient. Fortunately for you, there is a sitting Congress that is unwilling to reign in your overreaching activity. Hopefully that will change someday soon and most of you will be looking for a new job.
Civility and diplomacy have been purposely abandoned in this note because I know that no matter how nice I might have otherwise been, my input will be ignored. It is doubtful anyone will ever read this. At most, keyword recognition software will scan its contents and attempt to determine whether I am for or against your actions.
Sincerely, Kirt Blattenberger (AMA #92498)
So now the AMA is suggesting we hold off on registering. Question is in the end when we are forced to register are they going to cover the fee since it was free up to a certain deadline that we will miss ???
Now I am confused. The answer to Question #8 above implies that individuals are being registered. Yet the answer to Question #9 clearly talks about registering aircraft. Which is it?
Furthermore, what’s to prevent the FAA from arbitrarily deciding to implement a special “drone tax” any time they feel like it? Or arbitrarily upping the fee from $5 to $50 or $500 just because they can, or because they receive an executive order from the White House to ignore Congress and put a chill on the use of anything that flies using radio control?
If the FAA has chosen to ignore the existing Congressional provision for model aircraft, what other violations (such as privacy) are they likely to commit? What other agencies of the government might they decide to share the registration list with?
AMA says their roster is not publicly accessible. But what happens when someone from the federal government or elsewhere shows up with a FOIA request? Will the AMA fold like a house of cards?
In 2009, bird strikes accounted for $1.2 billion in aircraft damages worldwide. Contrast this with only two 2 suspected drone strikes to date. Not sure, pilots didn’t see anything, no crashes, no fatalities, only dented sheet metal.
Conclusion: Obviously, drones represent an insignificant hazard compared to geese. An outdoor electric model built from a couple sheets of foam weighs 2 pounds compared to a 15 pound goose. And yet the FAA limit extends down to 1/2 pound models? Who dreams up this stuff?
This talk about safety and terrorism is a sham. The FAA’s reaction has no basis in facts or reason. It is a response to media-generated hype that panders to a generally ignorant public. They think they can get away with it only because modelers represent such a small seqment of the population.
Remind me again: I’m supposed to accede to this government intrusion why, exactly? I see no upside and lots of downside.
oh and by the way I think it is funny that the ONLY lawsuit in court now is a private citizen representing himself fighting this. AMA with all its money from us members should be doing more. See the article on Forbes.com reference this statement.
I listened VERY carefully to the replies of FAA representatives during some recordered “Question and Answer” sessions. The gist of some replies which I replayed to make certain that I heard correctly is that if you have ever flown a UAS in the past, you must register by Feburary 19 even if you don’t intend ever to fly again. Your failure to do so will now place in violation and subject to a substantial fine. This is a classic example of “Ex Post Facto” which is making something illegal which was perfectly legal at the time.
This bothers me much more than anything else in this situation. You can do nothing and still be considered a criminal by the FAA. Also “Ignorance of the law is no excuse” is a standard phrase in cases like this!
In your Q & A at one question you state that we don’t have to register every model just the pilot.
Then in another it says to register each plane. Then another says planes bought by December 21 need to be registered.
Confused??
We have modified the answer to provide more clarity. The FAA wants pilots, not models, to be registered. If you acquired a new model, you cannot fly it unless you register.
Hey, Chad, do you think you guys could have more than one AMA rep answering more questions on the registration.
AMA replies are almost non-existent on these boards.
Like most entities we only have a limited number of resources. In the past few weeks we answered over 5,000 phone calls in addition to answer blog posts, social media, and thousands of emails.
We do have others answering blog comments under the more general name “Academy of Model Aeronautics.”
I feel the fact the FAA is trying to force rules for model aircraft during the registration process gives us what is possibly the strongest legal challenge to it. Registration that is arguably contrary to congressional mandate is one thing. Writing rules into the registration process in CLEAR violation is a step too far.
I will fly below 400 feet.. and from listening and talking to members of the AMA I do not agree I think it’s just another way FAA can keep tabs on Us . I enjoy the hobby it gives me an opportunity to step away from my business and relax and take a breather but here we are again someone want to tell us what to do. I have faith in AMA that they will make the right decisions and resolve the situation in the best manner. But I will say if you’re forced to do this I say everybody that has anything to do with this hobby needs to apply in all categories of flying .
Which is it?
“Interested parties have until January 20, 2016, to submit comments and can do so online at, Regulations.gov.”
“The deadline to submit comments is January 15, 2016.”
FAA says January 15, 2016, so I will go with that. But there are three things posted for comment.
Clearly someone wants to make money here. A $3 fee is less money than AMA dues. Not sure how AMA insurance works anymore.
If we are allowed our freedom the FAA may find out we can lend a hand when needed. Kinda like Ham Radio does. Life preserver anyone?
Joe
Our R/C models are the new ‘assault rifles’ to the government and a compliant (read ignorant) media. Just like firearms, those whom use model aircraft for criminal purposes will not register them; and the government will respond to any incident by cracking down on those of us that have duly registered and operated safely for years. the AMA can learn from the NRA; any compromise with the government is a net loss of our rights. Forget commenting to the FAA- they are not accountable to us. We need to make our voices heard directly to our senators & representatives! Also- vote accordingly!
I’m seriously considering not registering at all. I made up a fresh set of stickers for all of my models with my name, phone number, AMA number and FCC call-sign (previously I had name, address and phone number). The $27K fine is scary but not as scary as getting onto the equivalent of a “sex offender database” and e-signing a contract with the FAA.
It seems highly unlikely to me that a big fine like that would hold up in court given I’ve freely identified myself as the owner in those two very specific ways.
Of course, I really hope the AMA can just get their ID system counted as equivalent since the intent of the rule is to be able to identify the owner of the aircraft.
Be careful what you wish for. If, and that is a big if, the FAA were to accept the AMA ID system, they would want access to it so they could identify the aircraft owner. Because they are not likely to just take the word of the AMA as to whom the AMA ID belongs. Don’t know if giving the U.S. Government free access to AMA membership data without obtaining a subpoena would be a good idea.
I have decided due to I do live in New York City and I don’t drive, with the AMA raising prices to be a member and more finanace imposed on Americans I am giving up radio control flying. The FAA and federal government makes money. Before I pay any more I need health insurance. GOOD BYE
What happened to the expo law? We were flying way before the faa new law so it would not apply to us
AMA requests that we hold off until advised or Feb 19. The registration fee is waived (“refunded” in their words) only until Jan 20. I realize it’s only $5 but who wants to use a credit card online if they don’t have too.
Furthermore, its very likely that no update will be made available given that the deadline for comments is 15 Jan. AMA should take this into consideration when offering guidance.
The AMA has recently told their members to register with the FAA. They have done nothing to stop the opposition.
Don’t most of us in the USA live above 400′ ?
Dear AMA;
Have you started petitions to congress, the senate and white house to air our concerns? If not, I think we need to go that route even if it only brings exposure.
Have we tried to get on any NPR shows to discuss big government overreach?
We are not only squeezed by FAA but also Amazon with their plans to use airspace from 400′ to 700′. I feel like the 400′ came from Amazon’s lobbying?
Although the media has been a detriment so far, it seems some journalist would want to report how the FAA is shoving this at us along with amazon when all we want to do is teach kids math and science skills, continue our community donation programs and be left alone.
Thanks to the fine people of the AMA for working to protect our hobby and our liberties. We need to show them gratitude, respect, and additional financial support. The AMA is the only realistic voice we have to unify our interests to the FAA.
I can almost remember when this hobby was fun… Those were the days!
One last comment – I don’t think I have had any one plane long enough to make it worth registering, lol! If I use a wing from a plane that was registered at one time on a new fuselage but still use the same servos do I need to file off the serial numbers on the engine case? I did not install a new tail wheel.
The FAA regulation on sUAS is final. The FAA gave a period of 30 days from December 20 for free registration. AMA requested to refrain until advised or otherwise February 19. If FAA does not agree to what AMA proposes, who pays the $ 5.00 registration, its members or the AMA will respond?
Thanks
What makes 400′ the magic height?
Dear AMA;
My comments have been in moderation for a few days. Did I do something wrong?
Sorry for the delay Dan.
We want to make sure we take the time to read every comment. Like everything else, we only have a limited number of resources. As we approach the registration deadline, most of our staff related to Government Relations have been participating in conferences and meeting with the FAA. Your previous comment has been approved.
Why hasn’t the AMA filed suit for an injunction against the FAA based on the mandate from Congress not to regular the model aircraft community. ?
I will not be giving the FAA my credit card info, that is a total invasion of my privacy and a risk to my financial security.
We are addressing the FAA through the US Court of Appeals. An injunction is not an option, this case simply does not meet the qualification to be presented to a judge. An injunction would add more costs, further delay this process, and ultimately be denied by a court. In our talks with legal counsel, the US Court of Appeals is our best legal option at this time.
I have been a sailplane flyer for 43 years, flying above 400 feet and never caused any harm. That said, what if I decide to quit flying and ship my gliders off shore to someone who can use them. Do I still have to register if I never fly again? And what if then, I decide to fly aircraft under the weight limit?
OK so I guess after the “final registration date” the local Police will have the jurisdiction to come to a sanctioned AMA field and check every ones “FAA registration” and if there is someone on site who is in the air (or not) that maybe has the inappropriate info on their aircraft could be arrested and also everyone else at the site would be an accessory to the fact or harboring a criminal and what ever else that would be a revenue generator for the government local or federal. Be aware club officers!!
Funny thing is AMA members are insured and the people that are not members are not,
hence a very good reason for AMA members should not be required to register as we are already RESPONSIBLE enough to be registered and insured.
Sad to think if I’m in my yard flying a 12oz foamie, which I do, I could get arrested? WOW!!
I’ll show em, I’ll go to the park and fly my MXS heli and let a cop try to arrest me for that as it only weighs 1OZ and I can’t fly it more than 50 feet away because I loose perspective. I don’t do it now because I have plenty of land I own to fly on. Just saying.
My 2 cents
I, like a lot of other modelers, am on a fixed income. I scratch build 90% of my models as a form of ‘keeping busy’. I noticed last week that FAA extended its ‘NO FLY ZONE’ around the capital area to a 30 mile radius, effectively shutting down about 14 AMA Clubs! IF the FAA wants to extent the NO FLY ZONE around most of the ‘Commercial’ airports in the country, how many existing flying sites will that effect? Also, on the 400′ ceiling…A certified pilot flying a full sized airplane is supposed to obtain a minimum altitude of 500′ over sparcley populated area and a minimum of 1000′ over cities or other populated areas. Again, Common Sense says there is ‘safety in altitude’ so maintaining the minimums is quite common amount licensed pilots.
I believe that my being a member of the AMA meets the so called requirements of the FAA’s intent… to register model pilots!
Thanks,
Wayne Hartman
AMA 814172
I have heard several here wonder is FAA inspectors would be showing up at flying fields or sanctioned events. A few things about that. Inspectors are not invested with the power to trespass on private property without permission. The only reason they are given access to private property of let’s say an airline maintenance facility is because regulations require the airline to allow inspections of their records. Don’t think there is an equivalent requirement in 14 CFR § 48. Besides, the inspectors I have met in my career were very busy with the oversight of 1:1 aviation. An inspector’s priorities by FAA order is surveillance of certificated operators (air carriers) and everything else after. So the FAA would be on thin ice ordering an inspector to neglect the oversight of a passenger carrying air carrier to hassle RC flyers.
Just my 2 cents.
Line of site = no more FPV 🙁 quad racing will be dead.
I will not register for the somple fact that H.R.658 — 112th Congress (2011-2012)(Sec. 336) Prohibits the FAA Administrator from promulgating rules or regulations on model aircraft flown strictly for hobby or recreational purposes and meeting certain other criteria.
Once again, the AMA completely lets us down as the ambassador of RC pilots in the US. This is a complete blindside. Why haven’t we known this was coming. Nothing in the latest AMA literature, mag, newsletter, website about total RC Aircraft federal registration and YES, UAS does include planes and helis over 250g.
The AMA just raised their fees this year and states how the money is needed to fight for our rights on a federal level with the comment period, bla, bla, bla but here we are all of a sudden “required” to give the Govt our personal information including credit card info?
Thank God the AMA is just an insurance company and that flying UAS for “Hobby or recreation” doesn’t require FAA approval. There is no law saying you have to register your UAS if it is for “Hobby or recreational flying” They say so right here:
https://www.faa.gov/uas/publications/model_aircraft_operators/
But, thanks for acting as if you actually do something more than provide insurance for RC pilots, AMA ;). I’m glad I didn’t renew my membership this year(for the first time in 12 years) simply because I had little faith you could stop the Feds from doing whatever they wish.
Why is the AMA bending to this un-legislated action? No matter how much it’s discussed, the laws just aren’t there. Notice that they don’t quote a specific regulation? WHy is the AMA not exposing this fact?
There are no UAV laws or regulations that can be used in court.
The FAA does not have the authority to impose this regulation. It’s contradictory to the intent of Congress as per Section 336 of the 2012 FAA Modernization and Reform Act. Section 336, also referred to as the “Special Rule for Model Aircraft,” clearly prohibits the FAA from promulgating any new rules for recreational users operating within the safety guidelines of a community based organization. It can’t be much clearer than that.
Please rescind this inappropriate regulation.
Has anyone taken a look at the FAA’s “app” to see if their model field is in a restricted area?
We just did, and found out that virtually ALL of the local AMA fields are in restricted zones.
What now?
We need to take these comments to our congressmen and senators- flood their e-mails!- if that dont work, write a letter to your local paper. We need to be “squeeky wheel” for once.
Yes, folks, your comments are read( but i doubt its anyone from the FAA)- but it gives our AMA leadership a feel for the attitude of the membership.
Dale- Ive thought the gov’t can see big $$- and contests would be an east target! Scott has a good thought and Troy- i believe i’d buy an unregistered gun!- just say’n
Chad, I am 74. I will not give my credit card to the FAA as I believe the process has already proven not to be secure. I also will not perjure myself by agreeing to the 400 ft. restriction in the signup process and then ignoring the restriction. As a result, I will stop flying my planes. If I don’t launch or fly any of them, am I in trouble for not registering? Can I keep my planes, stop flying, and not register? Please give me an accurate answer as the wrong answer could get me prosecuted with fines–even jail.
Shortly after the US Government failed to protect the private information of 21 million US citizens including many of whom had to fill out a 127 page background investigation form, the same US Government wants to collect the personal information and credit card data from many more. (The background information not only affected the primary person but also included the personal information of family members, friends, references, etc.) We might as well post our names, addresses, and credit card numbers on some public website for everyone to see. As for registering .55 pound toys that are flown below 400 feet, that does not address the thousands of geese, ducks, and turkey vultures flying over the airports here. They do not stay below 400 feet or remain outside the five mile limit around every minor little (usually unmanned) airfield that the FAA has identified as no fly zones. Concerning privacy issues, take a look at the video recorded by most quadcopters. With a high resolution camera that has a fisheye lens, the quadcopter would need to approach quite close to make any picture that would invade privacy. I could get far better pictures with a 500mm lens on my Nikon. I see this as another grab for the dollars the way the FCC did before they totally lost control of CB radio. The FCC did not have the manpower to enforce the regulations so they stopped trying and just started selling the frequency bands that they were supposed to protect. In a few years we should see the same from the FAA – you will have to pay them for the air you breath!
I give up. Having enjoying the hobby for almost 40 years, if these regulations with their unconstitutional and illegal fines are put in force, I’m just going to quit and find some other way to spend my idle time. Life’s too short to screw around with these government aholes.
OK, so I’m one of those people that has had a background check as I worked at an airport and now my info is out there somewhere in somebody’s hands to be used for whatever they use that info for. I had no say so over that other than finding another job. Registering with the FAA is just one more thing just like Drivers License, Hunting/fishing, Ham Radio, Voters Registration, et-cetera.
As far as worrying about CC info, most of us shop on line so our info is out there anyway. What happens if Ebay, Amazon, Paypal, Direct TV, Comcast, Visa, Chase, Discover, DMV, on line tax companies, your bank, shall I go on? gets hacked. How many on line ‘small’ businesses have we dolled out our CC info to.
Fortunately I live where I can fly on my own ‘Private’ property, are the police gonna be able to come on my property and arrest me for not being in compliance. I assume so. It’s not the FAA inspectors we have to be concerned with it’s not like they are going to be ridding around looking for Criminal RC Flyers. As if the Jails in the US aren’t already loaded up with pot smoking criminals.
“Hey man what are you in for?” Really?
I have to register my DOG.
When am I going to have to register my Laser pointer pen.
Can anyone Recall any news of a SUAV causing a plane crash?
Too Much Drama
As far as the AMA, I like the insurance if nothing else and you can’t fly at a Club if you don’t have it. I registered because I’m gonna keep flying if that what it takes.
I had no choice but to register for the Draft in 1969 and look what that got me.