Frustration with the FAA
I have received many emails from members highlighting their concerns and frustration regarding the small UAS registration rule that was unveiled on Monday, December 14. The rule requires pilots who fly unmanned aircraft weighing less than 55 pounds and more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams) on takeoff, including everything that is onboard or otherwise attached to the aircraft, and operated outdoors in the national airspace to register online.
We believe the registration process is in violation of Section 336, in which Congress states that the FAA cannot proclaim rules or regulations for model aircraft. We also believe that an AMA membership already meets the requirements for registration. AMA’s stance is that it is unnecessary for members to register again through the FAA when they are already registered with AMA.
AMA’s stance is that it is unnecessary for members to register again through the FAA when they are already registered with AMA.
I share your frustration and concern over what appears to be a hastily orchestrated plan to get a rule out before the end of the year. It is my hope that upon hearing this news you don’t follow the lead of the FAA and make a hasty decision regarding your participation in the hobby or your support of the AMA.
AMA is still advocating on your behalf. We are working with legal counsel to pursue action and we have already launched a campaign to drive comments to the FAA. The more member support we have, the bigger our voice.
By the time you read this, because of the lead times of printing and shipping the magazine, many things may have changed. The latest news and information can be found on the AMA website, as well as through important email communications from the AMA. If you have opted out of receiving AMA email communication, I strongly urge you to opt in to remain informed on a timely basis.
Our organization is built upon preserving and protecting our hobby, as we have done for 80 years. We will continue that mission as we meet this challenge and any future challenges. I hope you will continue to support us in that mission.
