GENERAL
1. I will not fly my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air
shows, or model flying demonstrations until it has been
proven to be airworthy by having been previously
successfully flight tested.
2. I will not fly my model aircraft higher than approximately
400 feet within 3 miles of an airport without notifying the
airport operator. I will give right of way to, and avoid flying in
the proximity of full-scale aircraft. Where necessary an
observer shall be used 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.
7. I will not fly my model unless it is identified with my name
and address or AMA number, on or in the model.
9. I will not operate models with pyrotechnics (any device
that explodes, burns, or propels a projectile of any kind).
RADIO CONTROL
1. I will have completed a successful radio equipment ground
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 my control.
4. I will operate my model using only radio control frequencies
currently allowed by the Federal Communications Commission.
Since the PT-17 Military Stearman ARF qualifies as a “giant-
scale” model and is therefore eligible to fly in IMAA events,
we’ve included excerpts from the IMAA Safety Code.
Definition: For the purpose of the following IMAA Safety
Code, the term “Giant-Scale” shall refer to radio controlled
model aircraft, either scale or non-scale, which have a
wingspan of 80 inches or more for monoplanes and 60
inches or more for multi-winged model aircraft and have a
ramp weight (fueled and ready to fly) of 55 lbs. or less.
Section 1.0: SAFETY STANDARD
1.1 Adherence to Code:This safety code is to be strictly followed
1.2 The most current AMA Safety Code in effect is to be
observed. However, the competition sections of the code
may be disregarded.
Section 3.0: SAFETY CHECK
3.4 Flight Testing: All Giant-Scale R/C aircraft are to have
been flight-tested and flight trimmed with a minimum of six
flights before the model is allowed to fly at an IMAA
Sanctioned event.
3.5 Proof of Flight: The completing and signing of the
Declaration section of the Safety Inspection form by the pilot
(or owner) shall document as fact that each aircraft has
been successfully flight-tested and proven airworthy prior to
an IMAA event.
Section 5.0: EMERGENCY ENGINE SHUT OFF (kill switch)
5.1 All magneto spark ignition engines must have a coil
grounding switch on the aircraft to stop the engine. This will also
prevent accidental starting of the engine. This switch shall be
readily available to both pilot and helper. This switch is to be
operated manually and without the use of the radio system.
5.2 Engines with battery power ignition systems must have a
switch to turn off the power from the battery pack to disable the
engine from firing.This will also prevent accidental starting of the
engine. This switch shall be readily available to both pilot and
helper. This switch shall be operated manually and without the
use of the Radio System.
5.3 There must also be a means to stop the engine from the
transmitter. The most common method is to close the
carburetor throat completely using throttle trim; however,
other methods are acceptable. This requirement applies to
all glow/gas ignition engines regardless of size.
Section 6.0: RADIO REQUIREMENTS
6.1 All transmitters must be FCC type certified.
6.2 FCC Technician or higher-class license required for 6
meter band operation only.
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1. Fuelproof all areas exposed to fuel or exhaust
residue such as the cowl mounting blocks, wing
saddle area, etc.
❏
2. Check the C.G. according to the measurements
provided in the manual.
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3. Be certain the battery and receiver are securely
mounted in the fuse. Simply stuffing them into place
with foam rubber is not sufficient.
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4. Extend your receiver antenna and make sure it is in
the antenna tube.
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5. Balance your model
laterally.
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6. Use thread-locking compound to secure critical
fasteners such as the set screws that hold the wheel
axles to the struts, screws that hold the carburetor arm
(if applicable), screw-lock pushrod connectors, etc.
❏
7. Add a drop of oil to the wheel axles.
❏
8. Make sure all hinges are securely glued in place.
CHECK LIST
IMAA SAFETY CODE (excerpts)
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