FPV and multirotor aircraft
This issue provides readers with two articles dedicated to multirotor aircraft. Specifically, the topics include a how-to on first-person view (FPV) flight and an introduction to how aircraft can help with archaeology.
I am keenly aware that even the mention of multirotors, quadcopters, or sUAS excites some readers and, in turn, disappoints others. The subject matter can be far-reaching and finds its way into publications and news outlets far removed from the hobby.
Outside of our circle, multirotor aircraft and FPV are getting more attention than all other aspects of the hobby combined. As modelers we have a choice: we can either be a part of it or ignore it, but either way it isn’t going away anytime soon.
As you are probably well aware, the AMA has been proactive regarding FPV and multirotor aircraft, promoting their safe use and integration into the national airspace. To help get a sense of what both members' and nonmembers' needs are and how best to serve our community, the AMA created an sUAS Advisory Group that meets weekly.
Additional AMA efforts include:
- Conducting a survey to better understand the wants and needs of recreational and light commercial-use sUAS operators — more than 3,000 people took part. By the time you read this, the survey results should be available on the AMA website.
- Ongoing outreach and guidance to promote safe integration of sUAS into the national airspace.
Model Aviation currently has a bimonthly column entitled "Advanced Flight Technologies," authored by Patrick Sherman, as well as occasional feature articles dedicated to this type of content. If you would like to see more—or less—editorial focus on multirotor aircraft and FPV, feel free to send me an email or contact me through the Model Aviation website.
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
