On Tuesday, December 30, 2014 12:13:41 PM UTC-8, RL wrote:
Yes, in fact they do. This article from AvWeb addresses the issue and includes a link to the official guidance from the FFA.

As quoted from the AvWeb article and verified by the FAA Memorandum, "Basically, the memo says camera mounts aren't major alterations since they don't appreciably change flight characteristics, performance, weight and balance or basic airworthiness. They also don't represent changes to the aircraft's basic type certification, so no STC is necessary."

http://www.avweb.com/blogs/insider/C...-222739-1.html

Bob

Thanks - I particularly liked the "don't be stupid" part:

The memo further says the FAA doesn't support such attachments and should one come loose, the ever-present FAR 91.13 cudgel--careless or reckless operation--is available for use. And that's as it should be. The act of mounting the camera is not, of itself, careless or reckless; losing it because you didn't do it right might be. Again, case by case.

I made a copy of the FAA memo (link in the article) to take with me to the airport - just in case it comes up.

9B