As of August 3, 2026, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seeking public comment on a proposal that could prohibit the continued importation and marketing of certain foreign-produced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and UAS critical components. While the proposal is focused on addressing legitimate fears for national security, AMA is concerned that the proposed definitions would adversely affect recreational model aviation and the hobby industry that supports it.
The FCC’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) proposes multiple changes that raise potential issues for model aviation, but AMA’s primary concern is the proposed weight definition of “military-grade” UAS. Under the proposal, any UAS weighing 55 pounds or more would fall into this category—a threshold that, as written, would affect the importation and marketing of the Large Model Airplane Program category of UAS.
AMA members have safely flown large-scale aircraft weighing more than 55 pounds for decades under AMA’s established gold-standard safety programs that are strictly for recreational purposes. While AMA strongly supports efforts to protect national security, bolster a robust domestic UAS manufacturing base, and reduce supply chain risks, policies designed to address military and national security threats must distinguish between critical defense systems and the recreational aircraft that are used by our members.
The proposal also raises questions about other categories of equipment and components that might adversely affect certain commercial applications, batteries and charging components, and educational programs. AMA believes that these distinctions warrant careful consideration before any new restrictions are adopted.
The FCC is accepting public comments through September 2, 2026. AMA will be submitting comments on behalf of the model aviation community, but the FCC also needs to hear directly from the people and businesses who would be affected by these policies. Individual comments can provide valuable firsthand information about how recreational aircraft are built, operated, purchased, and supported in the United States.
We encourage AMA members to make their voices heard. Comments do not need to be lengthy or technical. Members can explain their own experiences with recreational model aircraft, particularly larger aircraft, imported components, batteries, chargers, or other equipment that could potentially be affected by the proposal. Most importantly, comments should be based on your own experience and explain why recreational model aviation should not be unintentionally swept into restrictions that are intended for military-grade UAS.
AMA members who wish to participate in the comment process can follow the instructions below prior to September 2, 2026.
Step 1. Copy the content from one of the provided templates at the end of this page into a text document. You can then add your signature and desired personal details.
Step 2. Follow this link to the Federal Comment portal:
– www.fcc.gov/ecfs/filings/express
Step 3. At the top of the form, you must enter “26-189” into the text box marked:
“*Proceeding(s): Specify the FCC proceeding(s) to which your filing refers”
Step 4. Provide additional information as required.
Step 5. Copy the information from your completed template and paste it into the primary comment box. You may then review and submit the comment. The form allows for email confirmation, if you desire.
Available Templates: Member, Educator, or Commercial.
– Hobbyist/Member Template
– Educator Template
– Commercial Entity Template