This concerns Rule 9 of the 2004 AMA Safety Code...
Which do you feel is more dangerous. A skilled pilot doing a "Tail Tap" or "Rudder Drag" or a new pilot trying to learn to land? Never have I felt my life nor limb was in danger when a pilot was performing a "ground touch" . However, I have nearly had my head taken off quite a few times by a rookie pilot trying to land in a cross wind.
I encourage you all to go to
http://save3d.org/ and email the AMA President, Senior Vice President and your District Vice President if you are against the 2004 change to rule 9 of the AMA safety Code.
We can complain on until we are blue in the face. Only action will solve this issue. Below is a copy of the emails I sent. Remember ... be tactful and professional. nor violent type emails will not help the cause.
Rick
Dear Sir
I am writing to you with regards to the addition to Rule 9 for the 2004 AMA Safety Code. I agree with the original rule concerning touching a powered aircraft while in flight. However, I do not agree to the addition of "no portion of the aircraft intentionally touching the ground except during landing".
Was this addendum ever officially voted on? Have there been insurance claims made as a result of such flying? What prompted the addendum?
I am a charter member of the Texas Heatwave Aerobatic Team. We are one of the few AMA chartered show teams in the U.S. and Canada.. We are honored to represent the AMA. During our shows, if a pilot chooses to "tail tap" or "rudder drag" his plane, these maneuvers always excite and thrill our audience. This 3D style of flying generates many more people to show an interest in our sport. That is ... after all ... the purpose of the air show team program within AMA ... to grow our membership by educating and entertaining.
If every year, more and more unneeded rules are added it will have a direct, negative affect on the AMA. I am asking that the addition to Rule 9 be done away with until such time it can be discussed and voted on with the full input of as many AMA members as possible.
Thank You
Harold R Head
AMA# 665515