Page 16
Rev 508jf
Official
Academy of Model Aeronautics
National Model Aircraft Safety Code
Effective January 1, 2006
GENERAL
1. A model aircraft shall be defined as a non-human-carrying device capable of sustained flight in the
atmosphere. It shall not exceed limitations established in this code and is intended to be used exclusively for
recreational or competition activity.
2. The maximum takeoff weight of a model aircraft, including fuel, is 55 pounds, except for those flown under
the AMA Experimental Aircraft Rules.
3. I will abide by this Safety Code and all rules established for the flying site I use. I will not willfully fly my
model aircraft in a reckless and/or dangerous manner.
4. I will not fly my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air shows, or model demonstrations until it has been
proven airworthy.
5. I will not fly my model aircraft higher than approximately 400 feet above ground level, when within three (3)
miles of an airport without notifying the airport operator. I will yield the right-of-way and avoid flying in the
proximity of full-scale aircraft, utilizing a spotter when appropriate.
6. I will not fly my model aircraft unless it is identified with my name and address, or AMA number, inside or
affixed to the outside of the model aircraft. This does not apply to model aircraft flown indoors.
7. I will not operate model aircraft with metal-blade propellers or with gaseous boosts (other than air), nor will I
operate model aircraft with fuels containing tetranitromethane or hydrazine.
8. I will not operate model aircraft carrying pyrotechnic devices which explode or burn, or
any device, which
propels a projectile of any kind. Exceptions include Free Flight fuses or devices that burn producing smoke
and are securely attached to the model aircraft during flight. Rocket motors up to a G-series size may be
used, provided they remain firmly attached to the model aircraft during flight. Model rockets may be flown in
accordance with the National Model Rocketry Safety Code; however, they may not be launched from model
aircraft. Officially designated AMA Air Show Teams (AST) are authorized to use devices and practices as
defined within the Air Show Advisory Committee Document.
9. I will not operate my model aircraft while under the influence of alcohol or within eight (8) hours of having
consumed alcohol.
10. I will not operate my model aircraft while using any drug which could adversely affect my ability to safely
control my model aircraft.
11. Children under six (6) years old are only allowed on a flightline or in a flight area as a pilot or while under
flight instruction.
12. When and where required by rule, helmets must be properly worn and fastened. They must be OSHA,
DOT, ANSI, SNELL or NOCSAE approved or comply with comparable standards.
RADIO CONTROL
1. All model flying shall be conducted in a manner to avoid over flight of unprotected people.
2. I will have completed a successful radio equipment ground-range check before the first flight of a new or
repaired model aircraft.
3. I will not fly my model aircraft in the presence of spectators until I become a proficient flier, unless I am
assisted by an experienced pilot.
4. At all flying sites a safety line or lines must be established, in front of which all flying takes place. Only
personnel associated with flying the model aircraft are allowed at or in front of the safety line. In the case of
airshows or demonstrations a straight safety line must be established. An area away from the safety line must
be maintained for spectators. Intentional flying behind the safety line is prohibited.
5. I will operate my model aircraft using only radio-control frequencies currently allowed by the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC). Only individuals properly licensed by the FCC are authorized to operate
equipment on Amateur Band frequencies.
6. I will not knowingly operate my model aircraft within three (3) miles of any preexisting flying site without a
frequency-management agreement. A frequency-management agreement may be an allocation of
frequencies for each site, a day-use agreement between sites, or testing which determines that no
interference exists. A frequency-management agreement may exist between two or more AMA chartered
clubs, AMA clubs and individual AMA members, or individual AMA members. Frequency-management
