INCREASE IN VIP TFR NOTAMS
By Tyler Dobbs, Senior Director of Government Affairs | tylerd@modelaircraft.org
A TEMPORARY FLIGHT Restriction (TFR) is a type of Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) issued by the FAA that defines an area with restricted air operations because of hazardous conditions, special events, space operations, security, and VIP travel. Because of the 2024 presidential election, many members are noticing an increase in VIP TFRs in their area.
During an election year, TFRs are issued for the president and vice president, as well as presidential and vice-presidential candidates, who are all traveling more than during a non-election year. Areas of the country that do not typically receive TFRs might be affected in the coming weeks and months because of campaign travel.
AMA members should always be on alert and check for TFRs in their area before flying.
AMA members should always be on alert and check for TFRs in their area before flying. Please be aware that TFRs are likely to be issued and reissued with very little notice, so it is important to frequently check for TFRs and changes to TFRs before flying your model aircraft. NOTAMs can be checked at https://tfr.faa.gov.
EAA AirVenture
Once again, the AMA Government Affairs team attended EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, in late July. This air show provides opportunities to meet with the FAA, members of Congress, and industry leaders.
In addition to a host of productive meetings, AMA took part in a panel discussion titled “How Drones and General Aviation Work Together.” Panel members included Chief Engineer Derek Abramson at NASA’s Dale Reed Subscale Flight Research Center; Dallas Brooks, Aviation Standards and Outreach at Wing; Director of Flight Operations Joseph Marshall at Zipline; and I represented Government Affairs for AMA.
AMA had a large presence at AirVenture this year, including our simulation trailer near the ultralight area, a booth at EAA’s blue barn, our UAS4STEM competition, and nightly RC flying at Pioneer Field. This event is AMA’s largest engagement opportunity, both for members and non-members. AirVenture allows AMA to introduce modeling to thousands of newcomers each year, and we’re grateful for the opportunity.
I want to thank EAA for its hospitality. The organization is truly our greatest ally.
To remain current with the most recent government-related news, regularly visit the AMA Government Affairs blog. If you have any further questions or concerns, contact the Government Affairs department at (765) 287-1256 or amagov@modelaircraft.org.
