The FAA recently released Advisory Circular (AC) 91-57C, which will soon replace the current version, AC 91-57B. The updates to the new AC are centered around the recognition of community-based organizations (CBOs), a process that AMA worked with Congress to establish in 2018. This CBO recognition will allow AMA to continue safely managing the recreational model aircraft community, something AMA has done for more than eight decades. This recognition also gives AMA a stronger voice regarding future regulations, requiring the FAA to consult our community when updating model aircraft operational parameters.
In addition to CBO recognition, AC 91-57C clarifies that educational UAS operations can be performed under US Code 44809, the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft. This legislation was created and passed at the request of AMA in the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act. This change allows AMA members to perform educational UAS operations at universities, military JROTC programs, and chartered clubs, without obtaining an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
Additional updates in AC 91-57C include a waiver process for sanctioned events, a process for higher altitudes at fixed flying site locations, and opens the door for night operations to be reinstated at our fixed site locations in controlled airspace.
Although not perfect, this Advisory Circular does give our community a path forward to continue enjoying the hobby as we have done for so many years. Rest assured that AMA will continue working with Congress and the FAA to preserve model aviation.
Click here to view Advisory Circular 91-57C.
To remain current with the most recent government-related news, regularly visit the AMA Government Affairs blog.
If you have any further questions or concerns, contact the Government Affairs department at (765) 287-1256 or amagov@modelaircraft.org.