Finally—drones are flying robots

In MFS 2/2017, I attempted to define drones as “flying robots,” since drones are not model airplanes. Unfortunately, this is beyond the comprehension of most bureaucrats. Finally, researchers are speaking out:

In a study by TA-SWISS, the Center for Technology Assessment, experts refer to drones as “flying robots.” While the study acknowledges that defining a “drone” is not very straightforward, it concludes that these devices can perform tasks autonomously and that specific regulations should be enacted depending on their intended use. The experts believe that drones and

model airplanes are equivalent and clearly states, “Drones are not mini-airplanes.” The UN specialized agency ICAO also places drones and model airplanes on the same level under the umbrella term “unmanned aircraft,” but clearly distinguishes between the two. Conclusion: Model airplanes certainly do not fall under the category of “drones,” and conversely, drones do not fall under “model airplanes.” In this regard in particular, EASA has saddled us hobbyists

model aircraft enthusiasts with a legal behemoth full of untenable regulations—such as registration, altitude restrictions, and other nonsense. This is more than just annoying; it is legally and technically untenable. They’re comparing apples to oranges. This must be fought by any means necessary.

The experts recommend: “…Switzerland must continue to actively participate in the international discussion regarding drones and their regulation. However, European regulations should not be adopted across the board: In the interest of Swiss stakeholders, the pros and cons must be carefully weighed, and the available

flexibility consistently.”

Let’s think positively and imagine that a future VLK might include, for example, the following articles:

1. Hang gliders (as before)
2. Kites, kite parachutes, and tethered balloons (as before)
3. Parachutes (as before)
4. Unmanned aerial vehicles (new)
  4.1 Drones (new)
  4.2 Model airplanes (as before)

Drones will bring about enormous economic and societal changes. They will also necessitate a significant amount of regulation. This has nothing to do with us model aviators.

Emil Giezendanner