39
Model flying
must
be in accordance with this code in order for
AMA Liability Protection to apply.
General
1. I will not fly my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air shows,
or model flying demonstrations until it has been proven
airworthy by having been successfully flight tested previously.
2. I will not fly my model higher than approximately 400 feet
within 3 miles of an airport without notifying the airport operator.
I will give right-of-way and avoid flying in the proximity of full-
scale aircraft. Where necessary, an observer shall be utilized to
supervise flying to avoid having models fly in the proximity of
full-scale aircraft.
3. Where established, I will abide by the safety rules for the flying
site I use, and I will not willfully and deliberately fly my models
in a careless, reckless, and/or dangerous manner.
4. At all flying sites a straight or curved line(s) must be
established in front of which all flying takes place with the other
side for spectators. Only personnel involved with flying the
aircraft are allowed in front of the flight line. Flying over the
spectator side of the line is prohibited, unless beyond the control
of the pilot(s). The maximum permissible takeoff weight of the
mode is 55 pounds.
5. At air shows or model flying demonstrations a single straight
line must be established-one side of which is for flying, with the
other side designated for spectators. Only those persons
accredited by the contest director or other appropriate official as
necessary for flight operations or having duties or functions
relating to the conduct of the show or demonstration, are to be
permitted on the flying side of the line. The only exceptions
which may be permitted to the single straight line requirements,
under special circumstances involving consideration of side
conditions and model size, weight, speed, and power, must be
jointly approved by the AMA President and the Executive Director.
6. Under all circumstances, if my model weights over 20 pounds,
I will fly it in accordance with paragraph 5 of this section of the
AMA Safety Code.
7. I will not fly my model unless it is identified with my name and
address or AMA number on or in the model. (This does not
apply to models flown indoors.)
8. I will not operate models with metal-bladed propellers or with
gaseous boosts, in which gases other than air enter their internal
combustion engine(s); nor will I operate models with extremely
hazardous fuels, such as those containing tetranitromethane
or hydrazine.
9. I will not operate models with pyrotechnics (any device that
explodes, burns, or propels a projectile of any kind) including,
but not limited to, rockets, explosive bombs dropped from
models, smoke bombs, all explosive gases (such as hydrogen-
filled balloons), or ground-mounted devices launching a
projectile. The only exceptions permitted are rockets flown in
accordance with the National Model Rocketry Safety Code or
those permanently attached (as per JATO use); also those items
authorized for Air Show Team use as defined by AST Advisory
Committee (document available from AMA HQ). Models using
rocket motors as a primary means of propulsion are limited to a
maximum weight of 3.3 pounds and a G series motor. (A model
aircraft is defined as an aircraft with or without an engine that is
not able to carry a human being.)
10. I will not operate any turbo jet engine (axial or centrifugal
flow) unless I have obtained a special waiver for such specific
operations from the AMA President and Executive Director, and I
will abide by any restriction(s) imposed for such operation by
them. (This does not apply to ducted fan models using piston
engines or electric motors.)
11. I will not consume alcoholic beverages prior to nor during
participation in any model operations.
Radio Control
1. I will have completed a successful radio equipment ground
range check before the first flight of a new or repaired model.
2. I will not fly my model aircraft in the presence of spectators until
I become a qualified flier, unless assisted by an experienced helper.
3. I will perform my initial turn after takeoff away from the pit or
spectator areas, and I will not thereafter fly over pit or spectator
areas, unless beyond by control.
4. I will operate my model using only radio control frequencies
currently allowed by the Federal Communications Commission.
(Only properly licensed amateurs are authorized to operate
equipment on Amateur Band frequencies.)
5. I will not knowingly operate an R/C system within 3 miles of a
preexisting model club flying site without a frequency-sharing
agreement with that club.
6. I will not fly my model aircraft in any racing competition that
allows models over 20 pounds, unless that competition event is
AMA sanctioned. (Competition here is defined as any situation
where a winner is determined.)
7. Every organization racing event requires that all officials,
callers, and contestants must properly wear helmets that are
OSHA, DOT, ANSL, SNELL, NOCSAE or comparable standard
while on the racecourse. In addition, all officials occupying
safety cages must wear protective eye wear.
AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code
Effective January 1, 1999
