| I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year as we enter 2026. As your newly elected AMA President, here is a brief bit about myself. I have been modeling since my childhood, everything from rubber-powered Free Flight to Control Line and all types of RC. All of these are critically important focuses and avenues in model aviation. We continue to face regulatory pressures and challenges to our hobby that we are vigorously working to protect. As most are aware, new restrictions were recently released at a time when congressional and regulatory leaders were on holiday. While there is much negative chatter online, be assured that the Government Affairs team, under Executive Director Tyler Dobbs, is already working on strategies and communication plans to protect our hobby. Recall in recent years the Remote ID requirement where everyone feared the weight and complexities of every aircraft needing to carry electronic identification. They worked hard to secure exemptions, then to establish FAA-Recognized Identification Areas (FRIAs) for our flying sites where none of this is required and are now gaining increased altitudes for many sites. This same diligence will go into this latest regulatory negotiation process. Not saying there won’t be bumps in the process, but we will never stop working to protect our hobby. Over the last few years, we have faced declining membership. We will be working to strengthen and grow our membership through clubs, outreach, education programs, STEM connections, and industry connections and partnerships. You may also recall many reports of pending pilots, mechanics, and engineering shortages. This hobby inspires many into aviation, engineering, and aerospace careers. We need everyone’s support to help promote and nurture the next generation of modelers and their growth in aviation careers. We are committed to continuing the protection of our hobby and need your support in strengthening and growing our membership while inspiring the next generation of modelers. |
| Thanks, Greg Stone AMA President |
How do I join the AMA I am getting my first plane tomorrow, it’s a 1200 mm Apprentice… I built and race RC boats.
Scott, Head to our enrollment page to join! https://www.modelaircraft.org/membership/enroll
Nice to read about you Greg. Here’s to a brighter future for the AMA.
Congratulation Greg!
So happy you are at the helm!
It was the AMA that threw modelers under the bus.The AMA caved on the FAA regulation.The FAA has no business regulating model airplanes.I know what I’m talking about,I’m a private pilot with single engine land ratings and a Mechanic with Airframe & Powerplant ratings.I have been an R/C pilot for about 46 years now.Remote ID and aircraft registration is wrong and overreaching regulation.
Steven DeGiorgio
AMA#79586