By Lucas Rodden, Government Affairs Manager | lucasr@modelaircraft.org
WITH ANOTHER SUMMER flying season well underway, some members and club officers should be attentive to their records, depending on the class of airspace in which they fly. Many sites operate within controlled airspace, utilizing a Fixed-Site Airspace Authorization, a process that the FAA has transitioned into its current form for the last few years. Because these agreements typically last two and four years between renewals, the first round of expirations occurs in 2025. The process is quite easy to navigate.
The authorized entity, usually a chartered AMA club, can find its chosen point of contact on the top left page of the document, along with the assigned phone number and email address. Make sure that this accurately reflects who you would to have like contacted for renewal and that their information is correct. If it is, no action is needed. AMA will reach out 60 to 90 days in advance of your site’s expiration to confirm details and resubmit it to the FAA.
Provided nothing has changed in the needs of the local airspace, most sites should have no issues in getting the authorization. AMA will remain available to speak with representatives if issues arise, but airspace authorizations are now much easier and faster to receive and renew than when this process was first introduced. If you require changes, please send those requests to amagov@modelaircraft.org.
Although altitude extensions and expanded operations are subject to review between the FAA and air traffic control and might be denied, those requests can be made during renewal when AMA is confirming details. The point of contact will then have an opportunity to discuss operations with the FAA Service Center representative on any requests.
My First Events of The Year
Now that I’ve gotten the necessary (but admittedly drier) topic out of the way, let’s move on to the fun stuff! I was lucky to have attended a couple of events this season and am looking forward to several more in the coming months. I greatly enjoy the work I get to do for AMA, but it’s a wonderful opportunity to get out of the office and spend time with our community who is enjoying the hobby.
In mid-April, I was invited to the inaugural event for Williamson Innovation Park, a dedicated UAS STEM education field now operated by Youngstown State University (YSU) in Youngstown, Ohio, in association with their aeronautics program. Although not directly affiliated with AMA, several AMA members also attended.
More than 200 students were in attendance to visit the grounds, watch flight demonstrations, hear about industry innovations, and connect with employers and training programs. The wind was stronger than what was ideal, but the students still got to enjoy engaging displays by UAS pilots in agriculture, law enforcement, and land surveying, which were popular. I’d like to express my gratitude to the YSU program for the invitation and I look forward to seeing it grow as another opportunity to kickstart the next generation of modelers.
Finally, I attended Joe Nall Week in Woodruff, South Carolina, for the first time in May. Although I’m still scraping mud from different belongings, I wouldn’t have asked for a different introduction to the gathering. A few jaw-dropping 3D flights, gorgeous classic warbird demonstrations, and a slight case of tinnitus later, I’m already looking forward to my next opportunity to go. If you’ll pardon my (lack of) photography skills, I want to share some pictures that I captured of both events.
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.