Originally Posted by
BarracudaHockey
We have been actively testing and evaluating modules, advising manufacturers on what members want as far as features and what we feel they will be willing to pay but as a 501c we are not, nor do we have any business being in the manufacturing sector
Further, while you call it proactive, many (most?) members would have a fit if the AMA started selling these or partnering with a manufacturer. Heck someone went ape when a simple paid ad from a manufacturer showed up in Model Aviation.
I too find it amusing that they have been preaching FRIA's for everyone's back yard at the same time getting ready to make money by selling modules. That's their business though, whatever works for them.
Horizon (who I fully expected to come out with one) just announced a sub 100 dollar module that will be available by compliance date via the Spektrum brand.
I make the AMA comment only because AMA always appears to be tight lipped about most everything. Yes, I have read comments where they are testing and evaluating RID's but has any information been made available to members anywhere? Would be nice to know who is working on RID modules and what progress is being made. Instead we learn Flite Test has one and they get chastised for it.
AMA does not need to be in the RID business as you mentioned. However for someone to get upset over RID's being advertised in the magazine illustrates they don't understand advertising revenue. Others carp about operating costs for the magazine then some whining about a revenue generating advertisement is pretty stupid.
Flight Test actively promotes the hobby, probably better than anyone, and sells product in doing so. Adding their own RID is a natural progression to their business model. Futaba has one coming (pictured in another post) plus Spektrum as mentioned. It is unlikely we will see modules under $80-$100 as talking pundits created that price range so manufacturers will follow suit.
I see in some club newsletters that FRIA approvals are trickling out but at this pace many club sites will be non-compliant at deadline. Going to be tough for FAA to enforce rules awaiting their blessings.
Gone are the days when you could enjoy an unencumbered hobby.