A Critical Look: FAA's New Policy Proposal Effectively Kills R/C Aviation Hobby

A Critical Look: FAA's New Policy Proposal Effectively Kills R/C Aviation Hobby

On December 26th, the FAA sent out its new proposed rule regarding the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems by civilian pilots. This covers R/C airplanes, drones, and helicopters. I don’t think it’s an overstatement to say that, if enacted, this policy will result in a mass exodus of R/C pilots from the hobby, and while it will provide an initial (and much needed) boost to AMA-chartered clubs, it’s obvious that the FAA hopes to see even AMA clubs dwindle and die in the long run.

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A Critical Look: Toledo Show Comeback

A Critical Look: Toledo Show Comeback

When we took our annual bus trip down to the Toledo Weak Signals Expo this year, I was pretty critical of the show overall, and said I would detail my thoughts on how the show's organizers could best revamp the experience and return the show to its days of former glory. What follows are those thoughts.

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A Critical Look: Yet Another Toledo Show

A Critical Look: Yet Another Toledo Show

With last year's disappointing trip attendance, Roger and I felt we needed to be transparent about how many people we required to make the trip break even this year. We usually price the trip with an attendance of thirty people in mind; any more than that, the trip turns a profit. Less, and we can't afford the bus rental. With that in mind, we alerted potential attendees we needed thirty people to green light the trip, fully expecting a marked uptick in registrations.

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