The FAA published the Final Rule for Remote ID on January 15, 2021. One of the three ways to comply to Remote ID is to apply for FAA-Recognized Identification Area (FRIA) status. The process to apply for FRIA status won’t begin until September 2022. Clubs that apply and are granted FRIA status, once available, will be able to fly aircraft at their flying sites without the use of a broadcast module.
Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) began working with the FAA in December 2021 in an effort to streamline the FRIA process. It’s expected that AMA clubs will make up the largest percentage of FRIA sites across the country, so the AMA’s involvement in helping the FAA shape the FRIA process is critical. To further ensure that the FAA understands the wants and needs of AMA’s members regarding FRIAs, AMA plans to host FAA FRIA workgroups similar to what was done with the FAA UAS Integration Office in the past. Additionally, AMA will be hosting an open house at a selected club’s field to showcase model aircraft and educate invited FAA representatives about the operations that occur at AMA club flying sites.
AMA will be sure to offer assistance for the FRIA application process as soon as it’s open to the public. In the meantime, 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.