We (UAV Pilots, pro and amateur) have a choice. Like the RC model industry, which is "self regulated" by the AMA (users/operators), we (uav operators) can have a choice of who will regulate us. The government in a heavy way (FAA) or the users (AMA) with some government regs. Basically, it will go like this. If we fly without safety in mind, that's every time we fly, we will shorten the FAA leash on us. Which will be pressured by the government and the normal people. If many accidents/incidence happen, I can see the FAA strictly regulating copter operations unless flown at a AMA sanctioned site. (an RC club sanctioned by the AMA). Any use in other areas will bring fines. Think this won't happen? As soon as someone is maimed or killed I think that will be the turning point. Also, If you are not an AMA member, you might look into it. It's a good organization and is very helpful to our passion. I have been seeing novice and RC beginners doing very stupid things with there drones. The fact that they are not fixed wing and can do VTOL makes flying wherever and whenever very temping. Until now, we (mostly fixed wing and reg heli's) have been funneled into flying at club sites because of the runway and safety needs of flying such aircraft. Now with uav's being bought up and becoming super popular, that runway requirement is all but gone. We should start advocating safety and passing on AMA safety rules so that our hobby and passion will not be regulated to death in the future. I'm in the USA, so that is my perspective as I write this. I'm am a bit tired of seeing uav incidents on the local and national news. Are you?
My daughter sent iphone footage at a concert last night. The band/production company had a uav flying over the crowd/audience. Although that sounds like "a freaking blast of fun" to me. I'm very weary of the great risk they were taking.
2 cents
Brad P
My daughter sent iphone footage at a concert last night. The band/production company had a uav flying over the crowd/audience. Although that sounds like "a freaking blast of fun" to me. I'm very weary of the great risk they were taking.
2 cents
Brad P