There are some changes that will be announced by the AMA with regards to experimental regs this coming week. While I won't go into all the detailed changes as many were simple updates or clarifications, there are a few that are significant for turbine pilots:

1) While there was no overall increase in weight for either Props (100) or turbines (75), the dry weight limitation was removed for turbines. Previously, the regs read a turbine aircraft could not weigh more than 55 dry, 75 fueled. Now it simply reads 75 fueled. This will make it a bit easier for those building the MIBO A10's or CARF Mig29's that were marginal at 55 dry. They should comfortably fit under 75 fueled.
2) Thrust limitation for turbines is simply 1:1 fueled. The prior limitation was 45 pounds for a single, 50 for a twin (combined). This should provide an added safety margin and better all around performance.
3) If you are building an aircraft from a kit, the extensive calculations to determine proper servo torque are no longer required. You must simply meet or exceed the manufacturers specs, without altering or modifying the design. Scratchbuilt models must still provide the torque calculations.

So, for example, if you are working on a MIBO A10 that will be 60 pounds dry and want to power it with a pair of Super Eagles, you are now going to be legal with room for a little more than a gallon of fuel a side.

For those oversees who would like to bring large aircraft to the states, you may now obtain an "event permit" as long as the aircraft has three successful flights. An inspection is still required and you must be an affiliate AMA member. All other limitations and requirements apply. For Canadians, if you have something between 77.3 and 100 pounds where MAAC coverage doesn't apply, the event waiver will work for you as well.

While there were some items we asked for that we couldn't address at this time for various reasons, these are very positive steps forward. The JPO did play a part in moving these changes through the system. Dave Matthewson and Bob Underwood also supported these updates.

There will be a more in-depth look at experimental regs once the FAA subcommittee on light UAVs renders its recommendations, and I would encourage anyone who has additional suggested changes to send me a PM. An increase in weight limit to 100 pounds is already on the list, so there is no need to go on record with this proposal.

I am writing a summary of all the changes for distribution to inspectors, and will post this as soon as it is available.