Randy Dufault
July 24, 2016 - Interactions between drones and manned aircraft are all over the news these days. The explosion of inexpensive, simple to fly electric quadcopters has dramatically added to the number of flying machines occupying the low altitude airspaces across the world. And while some believe a serious interaction between a manned flight and some sort of remotely piloted craft is inevitable, EAA and its long-time partner, the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA), are working hard to ensure it never does. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="497"]
Jeff Nance/Academy of Model Aeronautics[/caption]
As the number of drones began to explode, AMA, the largest association of drone and model aircraft hobbyists with over 188,000 members, helped create Know Before You Fly, an educational campaign focused on educating the public about the safe and responsible flight of model aircraft. EAA is a partner to AMA and a strong supporter of the program.
Throughout EAA AirVenture 2016 AMA is presenting multiple educational opportunities including a flight simulator trailer for children and adults of all ages, hands-on model flying experience, radio control buddy box flying, and control line flying.
EAA also received FAA authorization to open a designated area on the south half of the Pioneer Airport runway for small unmanned aerial system (sUAS), drone, and model aircraft operations from 7 to 10 p.m. on July 20-25. The authorization allows AirVenture attendees to operate a small RC model (five pounds or less) in that designated area for all six evenings.
More information about AMA activities here at EAA AirVenture is available at ModelAircraft.org.