Thank you again for your inquiry. We greatly appreciate your approach in this matter. There are several different aspects I would like to address in order to respond to your question.

When you signed the original membership application you agreed to comply with the AMA Safety Code for all applicable model operation. The Safety Regulations for Model Aircraft Powered by Gas Turbines are a specialized supplemental section of the Safety Code. Item 22 of these turbine regulations states that all pilots operating a turbine powered model aircraft solo have to have a qualifying waiver affidavit (waiver application) on file with the AMA and AMA will issue a waiver for the pilot.

Over the last couple of years the turbine regulations have undergone changes relaxing some of the requirements for such operation. These changes have been proposed and were approved mainly due to the sense of responsibility and safety demonstrated by the turbine community. One major incident (it wouldn’t necessarily have to be catastrophically) could cause the insurance underwriter – even if they would not be involved in the claim – to take a closer look at turbine operation, which in return could result in more stringent requirements for turbine operation. If in fact the pilot did not have a turbine waiver this could very easily raise concerns toward the self-policing structure AMA currently has in place for its members and – more importantly – for aeromodeling in general.

In addition, AMA’s liability coverage applies anytime anywhere. So, even when you are flying at a site where AMA membership is not being required it is still in effect.

With all that said I am sure you’ll understand that I would strongly recommend not operating your turbine without having the necessary waiver in place. Presuming that you have the necessary proficiency level, you can perform the required demo flight qualification with a non-turbine powered model.

Best regards,

Ilona Maine