Radio control aircraft hobbyists are currently standing up to the FAA, Department of Defense, and select members of Congress in order to preserve the freedom of their pastime, to fly small model aircraft in select locations around the U.S. In a petition, RC pilots say their fight revolves around “Rule 336,” which is a section in the FAA Modernization and Reform Act from 2012 that exempts model and remote control aircraft enthusiasts from regulation if they were flown for “hobby & recreation” purposes.
Radio Controlled Aircraft Hobbyists Battle With Feds to Protect Their Hobby
Key Takeaways:
- Radio control aircraft hobbyists are campaigning to preserve Rule 336, which exempts their recreational model aircraft from federal regulation.
- The federal government recently reversed this exemption, citing drone concerns, despite arguments that this unfairly targets safe, rule-abiding fixed-wing pilots.
- While Congress passed legislation to keep Rule 336 intact, the Senate's version is unfinished, with a key FAA authorization expiring on September 30.
- The Academy of Model Aeronautics is leading lobbying efforts, warning that modifying or removing Rule 336 would severely harm the hobby, leading to closures and reduced participation.
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