By Tyler Dobbs, Interim Executive Director and Senior Director of Government Affairs | tylerd@modelaircraft.org
AS THE 119TH CONGRESS convenes, AMA continues to take proactive steps to ensure that lawmakers understand the importance of the model aviation community. AMA’s Government Affairs team is making it a priority to educate new members of Congress about the organization’s long-standing history, diverse programming, and extensive educational outreach efforts.
This introduction is not just about making connections—it is about building relationships that will ensure the continued support of model aviation enthusiasts across the country.
AMA has been a steadfast advocate for the rights of model aircraft enthusiasts since its founding in 1936.
As the landscape of aviation, technology, and regulations evolves, it is more crucial than ever for AMA to maintain a strong presence in Washington, D.C. AMA’s Government Affairs team will be working diligently to introduce the model aviation community to new lawmakers, explaining how this hobby contributes to STEM/STEAM education, innovation, and safety, and how it is the steppingstone to full-scale aviation.
Continuing to build strong relationships with Congress is essential for AMA, especially as federal laws and regulations impacting aviation continue to evolve. The new Congress presents a unique opportunity to ensure that the voice of the model aviation community is heard loud and clear in legislative discussions. By educating lawmakers about the positive contributions of the model aviation community, AMA continues to have a seat at the table when shaping important policies.
Temporary Flight Restrictions Issued for UAS Activity in Areas of New Jersey and New York
In response to reports of drone sightings in December 2024, multiple small Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) were issued over critical infrastructures in the states of New Jersey and New York, which temporarily prohibited unmanned aerial systems (UAS) operations at or below 400 feet within a TFR’s radius until January 19, 2025. At the time of drafting this article, it was uncertain whether these TFRs would be extended past the January 2025 date.
AMA remains confident that these sightings were not the result of operations within the AMA community; however, we always advocate for responsibility, safety, education, and regulatory compliance in the recreational use of drones. The AMA community upholds the highest standards of safety under our set of community-based organization (CBO) safety guidelines that prioritize the safe integration of drones and model aircraft into the national airspace. AMA also works closely with the FAA and other stakeholders to foster a culture of safety and accountability.
AMA urges all drone operators to familiarize themselves with FAA requirements and to primarily prioritize safety. As a group focused on education and safety, AMA is ready and willing to be a resource both to relevant authorities and any recreational pilot who needs assistance in interpreting and complying with federal laws, rules, and CBO guidance.
AMA invites all drone enthusiasts to become a part of a community that values safety, education, and innovation in model aviation. By working together, we can ensure the continued enjoyment of this rewarding hobby while protecting public safety and preserving the integrity of the National Airspace System.
For a full list of current TFRs, click the “FAA NOTAMs” link under the “Media & Resources” tab on the AMA website. AMA members can also utilize UASidekick’s map services for free at www.uasidekick.com to access a more detailed view of the areas affected. For more information about AMA’s safety initiatives and resources, visit www.modelaircraft.org or contact amagov@modelaircraft.org.