Nice to see nothing has changed in this forum...Same people, same issues, same hijacked threads, and same personal attacks...
Back on task...I don't know squat about FAR's and the FAA regs...With the knowledge of many posters here I ponder to wander why we haven't referred to the AMA rules and regs being this is a AMA Discussion Forum...
OK...Right from the AMA Safety Regulations under General section:
5. I will not fly my model aircraft higher than approximately 400 feet above ground level, when within three (3) miles of an airport without notifying the airport operator. I will yield the right-of-way and avoid flying in the proximity of full-scale aircraft, utilizing a spotter when appropriate.
Website address is
http://www.modelaircraft.org/files/105.pdf
That should answer the question as to who has the right of way regardless of what appears to be common sense.
The unfortunate concern is the Heli Pilot's decision to fly low to the ground regardless if we common folk or experts believe his action was unsafe. Set aside the Heli Pilot's decision, it is our responsibility (R/C Pilots) to yield to any full size aircraft, including landing until the airspace is clear. I have seen small aircraft (ultra-light) land at RC flying sites...Annoying yes, but we must yield...
If you are an AMA member, you signed an application stating you will follow these rules at all times...If not an AMA member, I recommend following the rule anyway...
As a citizen of the community, you could follow up with complaints to the FAA, News Company, or with the local city government office. Be careful of your complaints, the outcome may not be what you intended...Your complaint could raise questions about the R/C flying activity which could create new legislation to prevent R/C flying, regardless of the discipline the pilot may receive. In some communities, there are some folks in City councils waiting for an excuse to shut down flying sites.
I'm not saying to report it or not report it. That's a decision you should make based on you're assessment of the potential outcome...
LLD
Larry Diamond
AMA 5024