Model flying
training is available to new members who have little or no previous experience. However, it should be remembered that access
to instruction is a privilege rather than a right. We encourage members who need training to attend at the flying field on Thursdays
(for retired members) and Saturday afternoons (for those who work during the week). Normally, an instructor will be assigned to a
trainee, and they will then make their own arrangements as to when they will meet. Please remember that the instructors also wish
to fly their own aircraft, so don't monopolise them! If you just turn up in the hope of being helped, you may be disappointed.
Prospective
members with little or no previous experience may enjoy up to three supervised flights prior to their membership being considered.
They must familiarize themselves with the Club’s flying field rules and must be supervised by one of the Club’s approved Instructors.
The Club’s affiliation to the BMFA, and the resultant third party insurance cover, is what restricts the number of pre-membership
flights to three.
Under no circumstances should an inexperienced member, prospective member or other visitor switch on a transmitter
nor start an aircraft’s engine or electric motor unless under the supervision of a Club Instructor. The Instructor will explain the
Club’s flying field rules as part of the training sessions.
Inexperienced people may not fly solo until their Instructor has
advised the Committee that they are sufficiently skilled to fly without supervision. If further help is required at any time, please
ask.
The flying of model aeroplanes can be hazardous. The Club has strict rules governing all aspects of safety at
the flying fields, and a responsible and mindful attitude is required at all times. Trainees must listen to their Instructors, and
follow their guidance in all matters.
Damage to a model is entirely at the owner’s risk, no matter who is in control of it. A
model must not be flown unless it has been thoroughly checked for air-worthiness by the owner’s assigned Instructor.
The rate
at which you learn depends on your enthusiasm, aptitude and confidence. There are no time constraints on how long you remain in the
training scheme, although for 'full' members there is a small annual training charge to help cover the cost of fuel and unplanned
landings.
Sunday morning is the Club’s main meeting of the week. Whilst new and prospective members are welcome to come along, the
arrangement of training sessions at these times is discouraged, due to the high level of attendance and number of people wishing to
fly.
