(a) Applicability. - This Article does not apply to model aircraft, as defined in subsection (b) of this section.
(b) Model aircraft. - An aircraft, as defined in G.S. 63-1, that is mechanically driven or launched into flight and that meets all of the following requirements:
(1) Is flown solely for hobby or recreational purposes.
(2) Is not used for payment, consideration, gratuity, or benefit, directly or indirectly charged, demanded, received, or collected, by any person for the use of the aircraft or any photographic or video image produced by the aircraft.