I'm in the process of setting up a large field for a local student chapter. I'm trying to figure out when I need to notify the local FAA about our launches. I got the following info from our local expert but still confusing to me so decided to check here.
(a) Class 1—Model Rocket means an amateur rocket that:
(1) Uses no more than 125 grams (4.4 ounces) of propellant;
(2) Uses a slow-burning propellant;
(3) Is made of paper, wood, or breakable plastic;
(4) Contains no substantial metal parts; and
(5) Weighs no more than 1,500 grams (53 ounces), including the propellant.
https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?rgn=div5&node=14:2.0.1.3.15#se14.2.101_122
My understanding is that I don't have to notify the FAA if less than 125g propellant and weighs less than 1500g including motor. I've been told that an Aerotech G138 motor is Class 2 but has 70g of propellant. Why? Would I have to notify the FAA for launching a G138? Most H motors have less than 125g of propellent so the same would be for those, right?
Also, what are the restrictions for airports? I don't see any for Class 1 as long as I don't launch within the airfield or the immediate vicinity. The proposed field is over 3 miles from an Army airfield.
§101.23 General operating limitations.
(a) You must operate an amateur rocket in such a manner that it:
(4) Does not create a hazard to persons, property, or other aircraft.
(b) The FAA may specify additional operating limitations necessary to ensure that air traffic is not adversely affected, and public safety is not jeopardized.
§101.25 Operating limitations for Class 2-High Power Rockets and Class 3-Advanced High Power Rockets.
When operating Class 2-High Power Rockets or Class 3-Advanced High Power Rockets, you must comply with the General Operating Limitations of §101.23. In addition, you must not operate Class 2-High Power Rockets or Class 3-Advanced High Power Rockets—
(e) Within 9.26 kilometers (5 nautical miles) of any airport boundary without prior authorization from the FAA;
(f) In controlled airspace without prior authorization from the FAA;
As you know if you ask the government for permission, they will either say no or tell you you have to get a permit from the President. I'm trying to collect as much accurate information before calling a government official. Any additional advice is appreciated.
(a) Class 1—Model Rocket means an amateur rocket that:
(1) Uses no more than 125 grams (4.4 ounces) of propellant;
(2) Uses a slow-burning propellant;
(3) Is made of paper, wood, or breakable plastic;
(4) Contains no substantial metal parts; and
(5) Weighs no more than 1,500 grams (53 ounces), including the propellant.
https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?rgn=div5&node=14:2.0.1.3.15#se14.2.101_122
My understanding is that I don't have to notify the FAA if less than 125g propellant and weighs less than 1500g including motor. I've been told that an Aerotech G138 motor is Class 2 but has 70g of propellant. Why? Would I have to notify the FAA for launching a G138? Most H motors have less than 125g of propellent so the same would be for those, right?
Also, what are the restrictions for airports? I don't see any for Class 1 as long as I don't launch within the airfield or the immediate vicinity. The proposed field is over 3 miles from an Army airfield.
§101.23 General operating limitations.
(a) You must operate an amateur rocket in such a manner that it:
(4) Does not create a hazard to persons, property, or other aircraft.
(b) The FAA may specify additional operating limitations necessary to ensure that air traffic is not adversely affected, and public safety is not jeopardized.
§101.25 Operating limitations for Class 2-High Power Rockets and Class 3-Advanced High Power Rockets.
When operating Class 2-High Power Rockets or Class 3-Advanced High Power Rockets, you must comply with the General Operating Limitations of §101.23. In addition, you must not operate Class 2-High Power Rockets or Class 3-Advanced High Power Rockets—
(e) Within 9.26 kilometers (5 nautical miles) of any airport boundary without prior authorization from the FAA;
(f) In controlled airspace without prior authorization from the FAA;
As you know if you ask the government for permission, they will either say no or tell you you have to get a permit from the President. I'm trying to collect as much accurate information before calling a government official. Any additional advice is appreciated.