Most AMA members, and those involved in the aeromodeling hobby know that the FAA has been working on a Notice of Proposed Rule Making (NPRM) for small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) for several years. Although the AMA is very committed to continuous safety within the hobby, we are also committed to our members, and the aeromodeling community. The AMA has been clear since day one that our goal is to work cooperatively with the FAA in ensuring model aircraft continue to operate safely in the National Airspace System (NAS) while also making sure the rules imposed do not keep aeromodelers from enjoying their sport.<\/p>\n
In our efforts to safeguard the hobby the AMA sought Congressional support in developing legislation that would protect model aviation from burdensome regulation. AMA worked directly with the Congressional leadership and their staffs in developing a provision that recognizes community-based safety programming as a viable means for managing this activity while establishing the minimum criteria for the safe operation of model aircraft in the national airspace. Congress adopted this provision and recently passed it as part of the FAA Air Transportation Modernization and Safety Improvement Act, which will be signed very soon by President Obama.<\/p>\n
We see this as a great step in the right direction. The AMA would like to thank everyone that was involved in drafting the bill, and that took the time to write, email or call their congressional leaders. Together, we have accomplished a great milestone. We have had an overwhelming amount of praise from our members, which we appreciate. Continuous member support is always a top priority for the AMA, and we appreciate all of your feedback and willingness to help us with this congressional campaign.<\/p>\n
Here are just some of the comments we have received with the announcement of the bill:<\/p>\n
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