There is still a problem with the light sport aviation: Once a pilot gets denied a medical, they can't ever fly again. So again, it's that FAA medical that gets in the way of anybody wanting to be a full-scale pilot. It makes me wonder if it was actually worth wasting the administration's time creating the category in the first place.

Also, I agree that the light sport aviation can indeed put more of a dent in the modeling hobby. Not necessarily because modelers will go "full scale", most of them at the local club around here are either already full-scale pilots, or just don't have an interest, so that issue is moot. Since the light sport aircraft don't cost a quarter million dollars each new, perhaps more folks will choose to get into it and not opt for a full private. In fact, a brand new light sport aircraft can be purchased for less than a Hummer H2, making the cost more reasonable for the affluent. The "average joe" who drives a 10 year old beater will just have to do without. The "driver's license physical" applies here, as long as they don't gamble on the third class medical. So, it should be as easy as getting a driver's license. In either case, it will put more full-scale planes in the air, making the NAS considerably less patient with modelers (actually more hostile, in fact). The FAA could easily impose the 400' limit and disallow any flying near people if they wanted to. If they wanted to bad enough, I suppose they could severely restrict any use of R/C planes and require a license and possibly some type of medical certificate. It looks as though the RCAPA is preparing for such a scenario.

If model aviation goes commercial without leaving room for hobbyists, then take heart. Building may be non-existent (except for display) due to air worthiness issues and time-limited parts. However, I am sure better technology may indeed become available for "unmanned aircraft", with improved safety and flying characteristics. There may not be as many ARF or RTF kits, however. Hobbyists will just have to jump the hoops like folks who are into high-powered rocketry if they want to keep their fingers on the sticks. Will situation like this ever happen? I seriously doubt it. Most likely, there will just be fewer and fewer places for modelers to fly, and that ultimately will kill the hobby (unless, of course, the AMA can keep a strong enough lobby).

NorfolkSouthern