President's Perspective 2013/07
AMA and the FAA should sign an agreement within the next 90 days
Our activities on behalf of AMA in Washington, D.C., have been productive. A meeting with Jim Williams, manager of the FAA Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration Office, and his staff proved to be positive.
Unless some unexpected roadblocks emerge, AMA and the FAA should sign an agreement within the next 90 days. I extend praise to Mr. Williams and his department for their willingness to understand our needs and work with us in a positive manner.
Another effort in Washington was a meeting with the Senate Aviation Subcommittee staff. The discussion focused on the difference between models and drones. This issue will likely be our dominant focus in the coming months.
Although the difference is really noncommercial use and where/how we fly, helping others understand the issues can become complicated. I am sure you will hear more about this topic.
We also visited the office of Indiana Senator Joe Donnelly. Senator Donnelly is new to the Senate and our desire was to inform him of AMA’s value and needs. His staff was receptive, and our efforts should prove to be cooperative.
International meetings: FAI CIAM Bureau and Plenary
I attended the FAI Aeromodelling Commission (CIAM) Bureau and Plenary meeting. The purpose of the annual meeting is to establish rules for international competition. This year our representation focused on these disciplines:
- F3A — Aerobatics
- F3B — Gliding
- F3C — Helicopters
- F3D — Pylon
The meeting’s outcome met most of our expectations. Unfortunately, a muffler rule was passed that will affect Control Line competition. Thanks to the National Society of Radio Controlled Aerobatics and the League of Silent Flight for financially supporting their representatives. The funds invested help ensure adequate representation.
AMA education trailer
The AMA education trailer is back in action. The mobile educational presentation contains several flight simulators and videos to entice potential modelers into our great hobby.
One of the trailer’s first adventures was to the Southeast Electric Flight Festival (SEFF), where AMA’s presence was warmly received. Thanks to Mac Hodges and his crew for the great hospitality.
If you are interested in scheduling the unit to come to your area, please contact:
- Education Director Bill Pritchett: [email protected]
- AMA Headquarters: (765) 287-1256, extension 515
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
