Originally Posted by
Granpooba
Dear Ladies & Gentlemen,
Upon viewing and reading many comments and discussions on various websites in regards to " DRONE'S / MODEL AIRPLANES ", the subject has arisen that it may be necessary to pass an online test to fly a model airplane. Which brings me to the following statement and questions.
1. I hold an ATP Certificate which is an Airline Transport Pilot, issued by the FAA, which entitles me to fly any and all aircraft. I have passed tests for the Private, Multi-Engine, Commercial, Instrument, Instructors and Airline Transport certificates.
2. With all of the above stated, why should it be necessary for me to pass a test to fly a " Radio Controlled Airplane " ?
Finally, I would like to know why the AMA has not launched a NATIONAL program to explain to the general public that it is not the Model Aircraft Hobbyist, but the rogue DRONE operators that are causing all of the air space problems ?
Very much looking forward to your reply.
Sincerely,
David xxxxxxx
As someone who's been a club instructor for many years, I can attest from first hand experience that holding license to fly full scale aircraft does not automatically make one proficient to fly a model aircraft. In fact, a couple of my students that took the longest to get the hang of it were full scale pilots. They found difficulty from always thinking through the "lens" of a first-person perspective (differences in judging position, banking, decent rates, etc. from behind the windscreen). Also, two little transmitter sticks do not equal a control yoke and foot peddles.
At our club, we have a proficiency requirement. EVERYONE is required to demonstrate proficiency and good judgement in operating their models. From the moment they assemble them for flight to the moment they're done flying for the day. Without this check-off, you fly on a buddy box. If ever I heard, "I don't need this sign-off, I'm a licensed ATP." My response would be, "Then you should be able to pass this proficiency evaluation in your sleep, right?" Then, I worry they have something to hide. If you're a proficient practitioner of model aviation, then you should be willing to demonstrate such.
I recently moved from Chicago to Massachusetts and joined a new club. This rule was applied to me as it would be to anyone else. They didn't know me or have any idea if I knew what I was doing. I had no qualms of demonstrating proficiency. A 20 minute time investment on a Saturday morning took care of that. Now, I start the process of demonstrating that I'm a proficient instructor...