FPV Guidelines prepared by U.S. FPV Pilots and posted by Gary Evans
DEFINITIONS
FPV
First Person View (FPV) piloting is defined as remotely controlling a model aircraft by the pilot in command (PIC) by the use of an onboard video camera and wireless video transmitter which sends a live video image of the aircraft’s attitude in flight to a “ground station” which consists of a wireless video receiver and display devices such as a video monitor and/or video “goggles”.
AMATEUR
Non-commercial hobbyists and amateur model aircraft users operating for sport and recreation. Commercial operations (e.g.: pay-for-hire, aerial photography, etc) are not recreational activities, and as such are not covered under these guidelines.
OPERATING REQUIREMENTS
1. Maximum flight altitude of 400ft AGL as per FAA guideline AC 91-57.
2. Flights should not be permitted over densely populated areas of cities, towns or over any open-air assembly of persons without there prior permission.
3. Flights within 3 statute miles of an airport require prior approval of the airport manager.
4. Maximum operating range shall be limited to FAA guidelines.
5. Flights shall be conducted in such a way as to prevent harm to full-scale aircraft, people, animals or property.
6. Flights should be only conducted under VFR weather conditions.
a. Day = 1 statute mile of visibility
b. Night = 3 statute miles of visibility
7. Night flights require on-board aircraft lights that show the aircraft’s attitude visible from 1000 ft.
8. Fully autonomous aerial vehicles that lack the ability to be totally controlled by the pilot in command are not considered to be FPV aircraft and as such are not covered by these guidelines.
9. Aircraft will be flown by regular visual line-of-sight method during initial testing and/or testing of any flight system changes that could affect performance and/or handling.
10. Aircraft will contain contact information for the pilot, including but not limited to, the pilots full name, address, and phone number.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Aircraft maximum weight and speed limited to FAA guidelines.
2. The use of spotters is recommended during initial flight training or at congested flying fields.
3. GPS based programmable redundant failsafe systems are encouraged and if used for return to home purpose should be programmed to bring the aircraft back to a safe location away from people and property. If a return-to-home feature is not used, it is advisable to
4. Have on-board capability (fail safe) of landing the aircraft if pilot control is interrupted.
5. Any record attempts that exceed these guidelines require the prior approval of all official agencies involved that would include but are not limited to FAA and FAI.
FREQUENCY MANAGEMENT
FPV pilots shall adhere to frequency control and licensing set forth by the FCC. This applies to both the RC control systems used, as well as the wireless video transmissions. FPV pilots will also take care to minimize frequency conflicts with other model aircraft pilots.
FLIGHTS AT AMA SANCTIONED AIRFIELDS
Note: Although these guidelines are not official, we are currently working with the AMA regarding FPV. Keep in mind some AMA fields are located within congested or populated areas. Furthermore these sites may have contractual agreements restricting activity within a limited flight zone. These areas do not have the space requirements for FPV flying and should not be used. Here are some additional guidelines for flying at an AMA field.
A. AMA model aircraft Safety Code will apply.
B. Operating range will be VLoS (visual line of sight), and flown within the proper field pattern. Operating range may be limited within the site property and/or flight area.
C. Spotters may be required to assist the pilot and/or take control of the aircraft in an emergency situation. This may include, but is not limited to, use of a buddy box system.
D. Please work with your site coordinator to discuss FPV operations at your location. Your site coordinator has final say if FPV flying is permissible.
Guidelines prepared by U.S. FPV Pilots and posted by Gary Evans
Keep FPV flying safe. And of course, HAVE FUN!