GENERAL
A model aircraft shall be defined as a non-human-carrying aircraft capable
of sustained flight in the atmosphere. It may not exceed limitations estab-
lished in this code and is intended to be used exclusively for sport, recrea-
tion, and/or competition.
1. I will not willfully fly my model aircraft in a careless or reck-
less manner, and will abide by this Safety Code and any addi-
tional rules specific to flying sites.
2. I will yield the right-of-way to man-carrying aircraft and will
see and avoid all aircraft, utilizing a spotter when appropriate.
(See AMA Document #540-D on See and Avoid Guidance.)
3. 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.
4. The maximum takeoff weight of a model aircraft, including fuel, is 55
pounds, except for those flown under the AMA Experimental Aircraft
Rules.
5.
I will not fly my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air shows, or
model demonstrations unless
I have previously proven that my
aircraft, control system, and piloting skills are adequate by
successfully executing all maneuvers intended or anticipated
in the specific event. If I am not a proficient pilot, I will not
fly in these events unless assisted by an experienced pilot.
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.
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 re-
main 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. Offi-
cially designated AMA Air Show Teams (AST) are authorized to use
devices and practices as defined within the Team AMA Program Docu-
ment.
9. I will not operate my model aircraft while under the influence
of alcohol or while using any drug which could adversely af-
fect my ability to safely control the model.
10. When and where required by rule, helmets must be properly worn and
fastened. They must be OSHA, DOT, ANSI, SNELL or NOCSAE ap-
proved or comply with comparable standards.
RADIO CONTROL
1. All pilots shall avoid flying models over unprotected people.
2. I will complete a successful radio equipment ground-range check
in
accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations
before
the first flight of a new or repaired aircraft.
3. 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 air shows or demonstrations a straight safety line must be estab-
lished. An area away from the safety line must be maintained for spec-
tators. Intentional flying behind the safety line is prohibited. (See AMA
Document #706 for Recommended Field Layout.)
4. 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.
5. I will not knowingly operate my model aircraft within three (3) miles of
any preexisting flying site without a frequency-management agree-
ment. (See AMA Document #922 for Testing for RF Interference. See
AMA Document #923 for Frequency Management Agreement.)
6. With the exception of events flown under official AMA Competition
Regulations rules, excluding takeoff and landing, no powered model
may be flown outdoors closer than 25 feet to any individual, except for
the pilot and the pilot’s helper(s) located at the flight line.
7. Under no circumstances may a pilot or other person touch a model
aircraft in flight while it is still under power, except to divert it from
striking an individual.
This does not apply to model aircraft flown
indoors
.
8. Radio-controlled night flying requires a lighting system that provides
the pilot with a clear view of the model’s attitude and orientation at all
times.
9. The operator of a radio-controlled model aircraft shall control it during
the entire flight, maintaining visual contact without enhancement
other than by corrective lenses that are prescribed for the pilot.
First-
Person View (FPV) flying may only be conducted in accor-
dance with the procedures outlined in AMA Document #550
.
PARK FLYER SAFE OPERATING RECOMMENDATIONS
•
Inspect your model before every flight to make certain it is airworthy.
•
Be aware of any other radio frequency user who may present an inter-
ference problem.
•
Always be courteous and respectful of other users of your selected
flight area.
•
Choose an area clear of obstacles and large enough to safely accom-
modate your flying activity.
•
Make certain this area is clear of friends and spectators prior to
launching your aircraft.
•
Be aware of other activities in the vicinity of your flight path that could
cause potential conflict.
•
Carefully plan your flight path prior to launch.
•
Abide by any and all established AMA National Model Aircraft Safety
Code.
Safety, Precautions and Warnings
2010 Official Academy of Model Aeronautics National Model Aircraft Safety Code
As the user of this product, you are solely responsible for operating it in a
manner that does not endanger yourself and others or result in damage to
the product or the property of others.
Carefully follow the directions and warnings for this and any optional sup-
port equipment (chargers, rechargeable battery packs, etc.) that you use.
This model is controlled by a radio signal that is subject to interference
from many sources outside your control. This interference can cause mo-
mentary loss of control so it is necessary to always keep a safe distance in
all directions around your model, as this margin will help to avoid colli-
sions or injury.
•
Always operate your model in an open area away from cars, traffic or
people.
•
Avoid operating your model in the street where injury or damage can
occur.
•
Never operate the model out into the street or populated areas for any
reason.
•
Never operate your model with low transmitter batteries.
•
Carefully follow the directions and warnings for this and any optional
support equipment (chargers, rechargeable battery packs, etc.) that
you use.
•
Keep all chemicals, small parts and anything electrical out of the reach
of children.
•
Moisture causes damage to electronics. Avoid water exposure to all
equipment not specifically designed and protected for this purpose.
