TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS
By Lucas Rodden, Government Affairs Manager | lucas@modelaircraft.org
AS PART OF AMA’S Government Affairs services, we regularly monitor and provide updates on Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) that are issued by the FAA. TFRs restrict most aviation activities, including recreational modeling, and are placed in areas that anticipate higher security risks for traveling government officials, military activities, or large public gatherings.
select the “type” of TFR, as seen in the photo. The most common types to impact modelers are those with a VIP designation because they tend to affect the largest radius. However, examples within the last year of extended Security TFRs may be found in Illinois, New Jersey, New York, and Oregon. Although Security TFRs and others usually affect a smaller space than the VIP category, it is always important to
Please note that AMA’s TFR notifications and postings typically require a threshold of 5 miles or more in radius. If you fly on property close to a public airport or a VHR Omnidirectional Range Tactical (VORTAC) navigational aid, it is best to check to make sure that your operations do not coincide with smaller local restrictions.
If you feel you are missing notifications that you should receive, please contact the AMA Government Affairs department at amagov@modelaircraft.org. Notifications are based on your residence’s zip code and your AMA profile email address.
AMA sends email notifications and maintains a list for those who are affected by the vast majority of TFRs, but it is still recommended that all modelers be familiar with how to check for TFRs in their area so that they are aware of last-minute changes.
The FAA’s TFR website is updated first and will be referenced here for discussing TFR categories. All resources that are mentioned can be found in the “Sources” section at the end of this article.
On the left-hand side of the FAA’s TFR page, you can find a dropdown box to
ensure that you are not encompassed before beginning operations.
Aside from AMA’s own internal list and the FAA’s comprehensive TFR system, modelers can also turn to the UASidekick app, which offers a visual representation of many flight restrictions, as well as clearly labeled AMA affiliated flying sites. Because there is no current pathway for exemption from TFRs for recreational flights, it is extremely important to utilize these tools to ensure a safe, operational space.
To remain current with the most recent government-related news, regularly visit the AMA Government Affairs blog at amabl og.modelaircraft.org/amagov. If you have any further questions or concerns, contact the Government Affairs department at (765) 287-1256 or amagov@modelaircraft.org.
SOURCES:
AMA FAA NOTAMs
modelaircraft.org/media-resources/faa-notams
FAA TFR Website
tfr.faa.gov/tfr3/?page=list
AMA Government Affairs Blog
amablog.modelaircraft.org/amagov
UASidekick
uasidekick.app
