The article by Dave Brown in the July issue of MA makes the point that the first $250,000 of each claim is self insured. The commercial policy only covers amounts in excess of that.

The AMA has addressed larger planes. The approach, in my opinion, is the correct one. Initially, require waivers on them. Get some information that will allow the risks to be determined. IF the larger planes are safe, and IF they are not too high a risk, then modify the current requirements for larger planes. Keeping these planes out of competition where more spectators are at risk would seem to be a prudent thing to do in the initial stages of gathering information. When virtually everything larger than 1/4 scale has the admonition to not fly downlines under power, in the current kit offerings, one has to wonder about the structural integrity of larger planes. Until some definitive information is accumulated, its seems fool hearty to just say "go ahead, do as you please".

The jet waivers are serving much the same function now. Even with the requirement that pilots get special skill training before flying jets, some accidents are still happening that could create expensive claims. As information is collected, a loss prevention program can be put in place. A recent crash on landing approach into the pits, at a large jet rally (where no one was hurt, fortunately) is the perfect example. Maybe the answers are simple, i.e. more separation required between the runway and the pits for jets. Accumulating the information will tell the tale.

These waivers are not going to stop the growth, but, they will slow it and allow modifications to the areas of risk before the AMA allows everyone to jump in with both feet.

JR