The Model Aeronautics Association of Canada (MAAC) has a long standing congenial and cooperative relationship with their Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Transport Canada, perhaps even more so than our current relationship with the FAA. However, issues relating to airspace conflicts and model aircraft operations in proximity to airports are as much of a concern in Canada as they are here in the US.<\/p>\n
MAAC recently received communication from Transport Canada indicating there have been several occurrences where pilots of full scale aircraft encountered RC model aircraft flying in close proximity and at or near their (manned aircraft) altitude in congested airspace around very busy airports. MAAC responded by issuing a Safety Bulletin advising its members as to the policies and safety considerations involved in operating model aircraft in proximity to airports and in areas where there is a concentration of manned aircraft flying at relatively low altitudes.<\/p>\n
I believe it is import that modelers understand that this issue is equally important in the US and is the principal concern presented when discussing MA operations in the national airspace.<\/p>\n
Public Law 112-95 passed by Congress as the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 addresses this issue and establishes statutory safety criteria for individuals operating model aircraft in accordance with a community-based set of safety guidelines and within the programming of a nationwide community-based organization (AMA).<\/p>\n
Specifically:<\/p>\n
AMA is currently developing the applicable policies, procedures and criteria for enacting the provisions established in PL 112-95, Sec 336, and to ensure its members understand and comply with the statutory requirements.<\/p>\n
Though the policies and procedures have not yet been fully developed and adopted and the safety criterion established in this new law has not been fully implemented, modelers should be aware of the safety considerations and comply with the intent of the law by\u2026<\/p>\n
*\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Operating their model aircraft in a manner that does not interfere with and gives way to manned aircraft.<\/p>\n
*\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Keeping their model aircraft well clear of all manned aircraft.<\/p>\n