FAA renews push for flying model aircraft safely

Washington – Recent incidents involving people flying model aircraft near airports have prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to remind hobbyists about the dangers of reckless flying.

In a notice published in the June 23 Federal Register, FAA officials offered guidance on a 2012 law that requires model aircraft to avoid interference with manned aircraft, be flown within sight of the operator and be used only for recreational purposes. The law also states that anyone flying model aircraft within 5 miles of an airport must notify the airport operator and air traffic control tower.

FAA’s guidelines include:

• Fly at the local model aircraft club.
• Take lessons and learn to fly safely.
• Do not fly model aircraft weighing more than 55 pounds without special certification.
• Do not fly model aircraft for payment or commercial purposes.