#2.
Hi Cambize, it is my understanding that the DOT and/or the FAA are creating
a Task Force to develop a process for registering "drones". In reading AMA's
website AMA has been asked to join this Task Force (see copies of articles
below). Be assured AMA is very definitely fighting and representing in our
behalf. In addition AMA does make a distinction in the proper use of FPV and
as you are aware have very specific requirements for flying all RC airplanes
which is recognized by the FAA and does separate us from the actions of
others. These requirements do not support the inappropriate or unlawful use
of UAS's. Inappropriate and/or unlawful use of UAS's is really what AMA is
trying to help control and what is creating a lot of the problems we are
fighting. Hope this helps and if you have any other questions please let me
know...Thanks...Benny
Link to a news article I found yesterday:
http://www.cnet.com/news/us-departme...require-drone-
registration/#ftag=CADf328eec
Article just posted on AMA's website:
Media Release: AMA JOINS DOT TASK FORCE ON UAS REGISTRATION
MUNCIE, Ind. - Dave Mathewson, executive director of the Academy of Model
Aeronautics (AMA), today released the following statement that the
organization is joining the U.S. Department of Transportation's task force
to develop a streamlined registration process for unmanned aircraft systems
(UAS):
"AMA looks forward to working with government and private sector
stakeholders on a process for UAS registration. The term UAS has been
applied to a broad range of platforms from toys with limited capabilities to
large, sophisticated systems that weigh hundreds of pounds. Registration of
UAS that meet an appropriate threshold of weight, capability and other
safety-related characteristics makes sense, but it should not become a
prohibitive burden for recreational users who fly for fun and educational
purposes and who have operated harmoniously within our communities for
decades.
"The Academy has long used a similar system with its more than 180,000
members. AMA's safety program instructs all members to place his or her AMA
number or name and address on or within their model aircraft, ensuring
operator accountability and promoting safety within the model aviation
community. AMA's nearly eighty years of experience demonstrates that a
voluntary, community-based approach is the best and most effective way to
manage recreational flyers.
"At the same time, education is essential for promoting safety to the
legions of new flyers taking to the skies. That's why AMA has been working
closely with the FAA and the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems
International (AUVSI) on the Know Before You Fly campaign. Education
programs like these will help ensure the safety of our airspace for all."
-----Original Message-----
From: cambize shahrdar [mailto:
cshahrdar@yahoo.com]
Sent: Tuesday, October 20, 2015 6:30 AM
To:
cbbehrens@comcast.net
Subject: AMA and drones
Hello Benny,
How are you?
Hope all is well.
I have read where they are now stating that "drones" need to be registered
with the government. IS this true? Also, is the AMA fighting on behalf of
all of us, who fly model airplanes, at AMA chartered clubs, who only fly
model airplanes, so that we do not have to "register" our airplanes?
Additionally, why does the AMA not make a distinction between us, who fly
model airplanes at an AMA club, and fly with a remote control that has
limited range, and with line of sight, as opposed to those who are not AMA
members, who are flying these quad copters, out in the public, in streets,
over homes, in cities, etc,,, and who may be doing first person view, etc...
I believe it would be a good idea to make this distinction, so that the FAA
and other government agencies do not place regulations upon us, the
modelers.
I look forward to hearing your response.
Best regards
Cambize Shahrdar