President's Perspective - 2014/09
Many years of challenge for AMA
The past six years have been challenging for AMA in the role of representing aeromodeling to the FAA. Frequent changes in government philosophy, political reorganization, turnover in crucial employees, and similar issues are just some of the matters with which we have had to contend.
On June 23, 2014, the FAA issued its interpretation of the "Special Rule for Model Aircraft" enacted by Congress as part of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012. On the surface, the FAA's interpretation seems of little consequence. To those who understand its implications, it is ridiculous. I have no idea why the FAA has taken several aspects to the extreme. As I review the past several years of productive meetings with the FAA, I am at a loss to understand the complete reversal in its philosophy.
It appears that one or more people were communicating in an erroneous fashion. In January 2014, I signed a memorandum of understanding with James Williams, manager of the FAA Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration Office. At that time I was also told that AMA would be recognized as a community-based organization (CBO) within 20–30 days. As I write this, it is mid-July and we have no recognition; however, the recent Interpretive Rule alludes to the AMA as being a recognized CBO. Did I miss something? I don't think so.
Meeting with the FAA (July 9, 2014)
A meeting was held in Washington, D.C., on July 9, 2014, to try to resolve the dilemma with the FAA. Attending the meeting were 13 FAA employees, including Peggy Gilligan (Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety), James Williams, and two members of the department's legal staff. AMA was represented by:
- Dave Mathewson (AMA staff)
- Rich Hanson (AMA staff)
- Mitch Rose (AMA lobbyist)
- Myself
In my opinion, the meeting was positive but could not be conclusive because of legal constraints generated by the comment period on the Interpretive Rule. It was stated repeatedly that the FAA had no intention of causing problems for AMA members.
Safety concerns and member responsibility
Although I am obviously critical of some FAA edicts, I am also disenchanted with those who continue to demonstrate unsafe model aviation activity. Why would anyone jeopardize human life by flying in close proximity to full-scale aircraft? Why would anyone think it safe to fly over large crowds? Why are so many people doing stupid things? The answer is simple: these people are not AMA members.
It is time for every AMA member to help educate the public, manufacturers, and retail merchants that safety is of prime importance. Don't be afraid to tell people we expect them to fly with intelligence. We must also recognize that some will not conform. When that happens, inform the FAA and/or local police of unsafe actions. Laws to protect us from unsafe activity are already on the books; the proper authorities must enforce them.
Resignation of District IV Vice President
District IV Vice President Bliss Teague has announced his resignation from the AMA Executive Council. I have been extremely fortunate to know Bliss and his wife Shirley for many years. Bliss is the perfect example of a Southern gentleman, and their hospitality is second to none.
Thank you, Bliss, for many years of leadership in District IV and on the AMA Executive Council.
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
