Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA)

On January 1, 2021, Congress also defined recreational use of UAS to include the following:

1. operated by an institution of higher education for educational or research purposes;

2. flown as part of an established Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program for education or research purposes; or

3. flown as part of an educational program that is chartered by a recognized community-based organization (as defined in subsection (h) of such

section.)

FPV Freedom Coalition

This applies to First Person View (FPV) aircraft only.

Authorization for Operations in Controlled Airspace:

As discussed above, this document includes references to Section 44809, which is Statute and therefore the law. This document then cites the FAA Advisory Circular 91-57C  which includes the FAA’s guidance and explanation of the recreational rule. The sections below start with a description of either Statute 44809 or the Advisory Circular.  Section 44809(a)(5) reads, “In Class B, Class C, or Class D airspace or within the lateral

boundaries of the surface area of Class E airspace designated for an airport, the operator obtains 

prior authorization from the Administrator or designee before operating and complies with all airspace restrictions and prohibitions.” As described above, this is Statute and is not optional.  The FPVFC endorses this rule and requires individuals using these FPVFC Safety Guidelines to

follow this rule.

Flite Test Community Association (FTCA)

Pilots must operate within the proper flying site standards approved by the FTCA.

Every flying site and aircraft will be different and will require the effort of the pilot to understand the limitations and restrictions that may apply to the area they are going to fly.

Pilots must determine a proper flying location if not flying at an approved FTCA flying site.

Non-approved FTCA flying location parameters for safe operation will depend on the aircraft that is being flown and should take the following into consideration, along with the “Suggested RC Flying Site Specifications” document mentioned above: 

For pilots flying at an approved fixed flying site in controlled airspace, there must be a Letter of Agreement (LOA) established with FAA air traffic control (ATC) to serve as official authorization for operations.

When flying in controlled airspace outside of an approved fixed flying site, pilots/operators must obtain clearance through an authorized Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) provider.

STEM+C Inc

A Recreational Flyer at STEM+C is a student learning to fly or using a UAV/UAS for educational purposes while involved in any one of STEM+C education workshops, or programs.