Thanks for the reply, Dave
Yes, I'm aware of the code 9 revision.
To be quite honest the first part was of more concern to me, but I'm glad that some action was taken to get the rule changed. When I heard about the addition to code 9 I figured well, first it's no touching the model, this year it's no touching the ground, maybe next year hovering will be outlawed, then aerobatics alltogether.
That's an exaggerative point of view, but I think you get my point.
Sometimes when rules are created targeting a specific action the result sometimes has a broad impact.
Yes, a 40% model and a .40 size model are two different things, and I think common sense should be used when flying any aircraft.
I will not go into the "what type flying is more dangerous" debate, it's been beat to death on other threads. But I consider my small models such as a 8oz. indoor 3D model have a very low risk factor.
I have my own limits that I use when flying my models. And, I have been one of those that grabs the tail of the model in flight, however I found that it's not easy to grab hold of a giant scale plane and hold it steady so it's not something I do. But with my small electric planes and the planes up to .60 size glow I don't see a problem with it. Basically if I can't (easily) pick the model up and hold it vertically with one hand I'm not going to do any touching or grabbing of the plane in flight.
I'm open to suggestions as to how we can address the one without impacting the other.
I guess that's the tough part and I really don't know of a perfect solution that will make everybody happy. One thing I've thought of is the weight of an aircraft. I had much rather be hit by a small electric than a giant scale regardless of what or how the model is being flown.
I really don't ever expect code 9 to be done away with, I just don't wan't to continue seeing additions to it.
Bill