In order to maintain an open communication flow between AMA and various departments within the FAA, the AMA Government Affairs team meets regularly with the FAA. We have daily contact with the FAA and a weekly scheduled teleconference that involves leadership from multiple departments. The call involves representatives from Flight Standards, the Air Traffic Organization, the Integration Office, the UAS Policy Team, and others.
The purpose of these calls is to discuss developments that occur regarding the aeronautical knowledge and safety test, operations in controlled airspace, operations in uncontrolled (Class G) airspace, the Letter of Agreement (LOA), Safety Risk Management (SRM) process, and any new topics that might arise. Currently, a large portion of these calls are dedicated to addressing clubs that are in controlled airspace and the status of their LOA. Every week, we are updated with the current position of a LOA and can track the movement of each. We are working to encourage clubs to sign proposed LOAs and determine if an SRM panel will be needed to obtain higher altitudes.
We are also updated on the status of Community-Based Organization recognition and tentative release dates for the knowledge and safety test. Because of COVID-19, many projects have halted and are awaiting approval from the FAA legal team. Our continuous communication efforts with the FAA have helped mitigate many issues that have come up and allow us to advocate for the hobby.