ANOTHER YEAR IN
THE BOOKS
By Tyler Dobbs, Senior Director of Government Affairs | tylerd@modelaircraft.org
2023 WAS A CHALLENGING YEAR for sure, but it was a year that set the stage for a promising 2024. As many will remember, AMA was successful in 2023 by securing a sanctioned event altitude waiver process for our events in Class G airspace, obtaining higher altitude authorization for many clubs in controlled airspace, successfully obtaining FAA-Recognized Identification Area (FRIA) status for AMA club sites around the country, and instating new legislative language in both the House and Senate FAA Reauthorization bills.
AMA appreciates all of the hard work and support that we have received from members of Congress, industry stakeholders, and those within the FAA who support model aviation. We know that there is still much work to be done, and AMA looks
forward to reducing restrictions on our hobby throughout 2024. Continuing work with Congress toward a final FAA Reauthorization bill, obtaining FRIA approvals for currently denied club flying sites, receiving higher altitude authorizations, and continuing to educate the FAA and policymakers, are just a few things on our agenda for 2024.
Most importantly, I would like to thank AMA members. Your support and leadership throughout 2023 have resulted in reducing some of the challenges that we are currently facing, and you have pointed us in a positive direction as we start the new year. Your passion for model aviation and your dedication to safety are two reasons why AMA is a respected organization in the aviation
community. AMA will continue to advocate on your behalf and on behalf of the entire model aviation community.
Safety Check
As we start the new year, use this as an opportunity to review and update safety procedures at your flying site or other areas where you fly. Ensure that you’re following the most up-to-date AMA safety programming and that you’re complying with the newest rules and laws. All of this information can be found at www.modelaircraft.org/safety. You can also contact AMA directly if you have any questions regarding compliance.
