Dear members,
The FAA released its proposed rule on remote identification (remote ID) on December 26, 2019. AMA has been advocating for our hobby throughout the remote ID rule process to include voting privileges as a member of the Remote ID Aviation Rulemaking Committee. We are reviewing this notice of proposed rulemaking on remote ID, however, an early read indicates that some of our proposals were accepted, including not requiring onboard equipage for our members at our flying sites. Please look for future communications from AMA as we review the entire proposed rule. Because this is not a final rule, we will likely ask for our members to help us shape the ultimate regulation by participating and providing comments and feedback to the FAA.
Q: What is the email the FAA sent out about remote ID?
A: In 2016 the FAA announced plans to remotely track unmanned aircraft. On December 26, 2019, the FAA published its proposed rule on remote identification in the Federal Register. This is a proposed rule, not a final rule. Please continue to monitor AMA communication because we will likely encourage members to participate in the rulemaking process to comment and shape the final rule.
Q: What does this proposed rule say for recreational fliers and AMA members?
A: As we review the 319-page document, the initial read appears to show that AMA remains successful in advocating that our members will not require onboard equipage when at a flying field or approved location. The FAA gives flexibility for recognized community-based organizations (CBOs).
Q: What is AMA stance on remote ID?
A: AMA has long advocated for a common-sense approach to remote ID. Because our operations do not pose any new risk to the airspace, the burden of remote ID should apply to unmanned aircraft capable of navigating beyond visual line of sight of the operator or spotter or operations outside our safety programming. Some AMA proposals would allow recreational operators to meet the safety and security objectives of the rule without onboard equipage by operating at fixed flying sites or by using a software-based app solution.
Q: Has AMA had any say in the remote ID rulemaking?
A: AMA has been advocating on behalf of our members from the beginning on remote ID, to include as a voting member on the 2017 Remote ID Aviation Rulemaking Committee. AMA continues to serve on FAA advisory committees and safety teams addressing remote ID.
Q: I heard AMA mention fixed flying sites. What about members who are not flying at a fixed site?
A: For members not at a flying field, it’s unknown if members can use a ground-based solution such as an app to satisfy remote ID without onboard equipage. We will share more as we read and review the 319-page proposed rule.
Q: Where can I read the proposed rule?
A: You can read the entire proposed rule and FAA’s announcement at https://www.faa.gov/news/press_releases/news_story.cfm?newsId=24534.
Q: What Happens Next?
A: AMA will continue to shape the rule before it is finalized to include asking members to participate in the rulemaking process. Please monitor communication for more information. In March 2020, the FAA will begin reviewing comments and feedback to shape the final rule. This process could take days or years.