Dave Mathewson, executive director of the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA), which is the world’s largest community-based organization whose members fly model aircraft for recreational and educational purposes, has released the following statement on the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA’s) new broad-based advisory committee and the agency’s plans to make it easier for students to fly unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for educational and research purposes.
“AMA applauds the FAA for making it clear that students can use UAS, including model aircraft, for educational purposes. For years, model aircraft have been used for science, technology, education and math (STEM) education without burdensome requirements on teachers and students. In recent years, AMA advocated that new regulations for small UAS not encumber this important educational process and, most recently, asked Congress to clarify educational use in the next FAA reauthorization bill.
“We strongly believe that model aircraft serve as aviation’s stepping stone. Neil Armstrong, aviation pioneer Burt Rutan, and astronaut Robert “Hoot” Gibson — all lifelong AMA members — are just a few examples of this promising career path. We have no doubt that STEM education programs across the country will benefit from improved access to this technology.
“In addition, we are pleased that the FAA has announced a new drone advisory committee to work on UAS integration alongside the agency. As AMA participated in both the UAS registration taskforce and the micro UAS aviation rulemaking committee, we understand the need for a diverse set of voices to advise the agency and believe it is critical for the hobbyist community to be well-represented.
We look forward to continuing our work with all stakeholders to ensure the safety of our skies.”
