EAA AirVenture keeps getting better
Bob Brown
bobb@modelaircraft.org
EAA AirVenture gets better each year, and 2015 was no exception. The EAA was very encouraging with its inclusion of model aviation. Throughout the grounds and museum, five venues allowed us to educate the attendees about model aviation and the AMA.
During the evening hours, AMA members were allowed to fly in the area behind the museum. AMA District III Vice President Mark Radcliff was instrumental in managing this area. The Innovation Center included an outdoor “drone zone” where small drones were showcased and attendees could compete in a drone obstacle-course race. Archie Stafford illustrated to hundreds of attendees the positive aspects of drones.
The highlight of the air show was a virtual formation act flown with Matt Chapman’s new full-scale Extra 330 LX and Frank Noll’s model. Also flying models were Mike Barbee, Will Berninger, and Brian O’Meara. These men flew in front of one of the largest groups of spectators ever to witness a model air show. Thanks to all who were involved.
The positive cooperation between the EAA and the AMA increases each year. Discussions are already being conducted to make 2016 the best year of our efforts. Thanks to Jack Pelton, Sean Elliott, Rick Larsen, and Brian O’Lena for their cooperative participation with the AMA.
This year’s inductees to the AMA Model Aviation Hall of Fame include Dub Jett, Jerry Rocha, Jay Gerber, Chuck Cunningham, Jesse Shepherd Sr., Frank Baker, Fred Mulholland, and Phil Cartier. I am proud to say that several of these men are my friends. Congratulations to all and thank you for all that you have accomplished and contributed to model aviation.
Throughout the years, some unprincipled amateur and freelance photographers have sought to aggrandize their own notoriety by capturing and publicizing sensational videos and photographs. These individuals now seem to be utilizing drones to enhance their clandestine photo efforts. Their unscrupulous acts disparage the traditional aeromodeling community and tarnish our excellent safety record.
I hope the government will be able to differentiate between true hobbyists and the acts of a few irresponsible drone operators. If you see someone flying in an inappropriate area and/or in an unsafe manner, please alert the proper authorities and report it to the AMA leadership.
On that same note, please provide education to anyone interested in the safe way to fly a model aircraft. If someone drops by your field, be positive and constructive. Too many potential members are turned away because they fly “drones.”
Although you might think you are alleviating a problem, you are not. The person you have rejected will probably go down the road a short distance and attempt to fly in an unsafe area. This is not good for anyone. Please introduce the Know Before You Fly program to everyone.
AMA recently asked the FAA to take enforcement action against anyone flying in an unsafe manner that endangers persons or property. It is sad that some individuals cannot comprehend intelligent safety guidelines. Perhaps substantial penalties can provide the impetus needed to curtail our current problems. Please adhere to AMA’s safety guidelines and fly safely!
