Frequently Asked Questions
Click one of the questions.....
Answers
| Getting started? Are you genuinely interested in taking up the hobby? To find out before spending hard earned cash we suggest you visit us initially for a FREE trial flight with an instructor. You can then decide if it's what you really want to do. Also the instructor can asses how long it will take for you to be able to fly safely. |
| Click the Contact Us link at the bottom of the pages |
| Tests are required to ensure you are aware of the requirements of being able to fly responsibly, safety and legally. All remote control aircraft are now classified as Drones by the Aviation Authorities. |
| No. It is illegal with enormous fines and possible prison in extreme cases. Police can confiscate and possibly destroy your equipment. You need to hold a CAA Operator ID number. Also public liability insurance. Imagine the scenario of your model plane in a park hits a member of the public and causes serious injury or death from the impact. Probably court action under health and safety rules. |
| The CAA are responsible for the safety of civil airspace. After the Gatwick delays and grounding of aircraft at Christmas although there had been other incidents there and at other airports by irresponsible multi-rotor (drones) pilots being flown in or near the airport, the government brought in new legislation allowing the CAA to also control all RC model flying. |
| The BMFA covers it's members will public liability insurance of £25,000,000. The BMFA is the National Governing Body for the sport of model flying. Its aims are to promote, protect, organise and encourage model flying within the UK. Typically there are around 750 affiliated clubs and a combined membership of over 30,000 members, all of whom have entered a partnership to ensure that model aircraft and drone flyers have a voice and their rights are recognised by the authorities. ie; CAA. |
| Joining the BMFA you can take the necessary tests through them. Much simpler. Join BMFA here: https://bmfa.org/join-us After joining the BMFA you can then use your BMFA membership number to take the Registration Competency Certificate test. After passing the test, 75% correct of 40 questions, (you can take the test multiple times) you will receive you CAA registration either by email or by post. RCC Test link: https://rcc.bmfa.uk/rcc |
| Of course! We all had to start somewhere. We have a number of instructors who will help you get aquainted. Initially you would be on a "buddy box" system, this is a dual control system so if you loose orientation or control he can instantly take back control. Training is normally available Saturday mornings (subject to weather). Other times are available too in early mornings. This is pre-arranged. |
| Good eyesight with or with out spectacles. You have to realise that remote control flying is understanding that the main thing to manage is orientation of the aircraft and control it. |
| Whilst under going training we recommend that you attend regularly. Having long periods between training sessions does not help. It all depends on your ability to learn and remember. However, most novices are flying with some supervision within a few weeks |
| We suggest you purchase your own model and equipment as learning with your own model you get a feel for it's flight characteristics. However, initially we do have club trainer planes that can be used when still using the "buddy box" system. * There is a small fee for each flight of club aircraft. |
| Normally a high wing model. A pre-built model, popular are EPO moulded trainers with wing span in the region of 1.5 metres with pre-installed hardware. Just add you own receiver and batteries. |
| Numerous makes but Spektrum is very popular. Preferably 6 channels minimum. More on this subject will covered at the time of your first visit. |
| This is rather an open question but we would suggest a new EPO model as suggested above. Possibly a second hand transmitter and receiver and two lipo battery packs plus a specialised charger for the latter. As of time of publishing possibly around £350 - £400 |
| Open every day except Chrsitmas Day. Flying is available from 8.30 till dusk. Sundays from 10.30 till dusk. IC and Jet flying is limited to 6pm. |
| Use the Contact Us link at the bottom of the pages. Initially we will ask you to visit us, see what we do and take a trail flight |
| Welfare/Vulnerable Adults - We have in force a policy to protect children, under 18s and vulnerable adults whilst at the flying field at any time. A parent or guardian must be at the the field at all times. View our guidance and policy |
If you still have further questions please use this Contact Form
