TRAINING PROGRAM

RARC has enjoyed a very safe flying environment for many years. Learning how to set up, operate and fly model aircraft safely is of primary importance. Airplanes can easily weigh between 10 and 50 pounds and can fly well over 100 mph. This makes for exceptionally large, destructive forces if one hits an object or a person. These forces can easily kill someone. While we aim to have fun, we do need to learn how to safely operate the aircraft we enjoy. We also need to understand safe maintenance, inspection, and preflight practices just like full-sized airplanes.

INTRODUCTORY FLIGHT – The club holds introductory flights by appointment only with our flight instructors. The club owns a trainer airplane specifically for this purpose, allowing instructors to give interested individuals stick time to experience flying a model airplane. After a couple of introductory flights, newcomers who express a desire to complete our training program are required to join both the club and the AMA. The instructor will then advise the student on what model and support equipment they should purchase to begin training.

We are an Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) sanctioned club, which requires everyone learning to fly and operate aircraft at our facility to be a registered AMA member. Getting registered is easy, and free trial membership and insurance coverage are available for a short time during your initial lessons. Full AMA membership is required to continue flying at our field. In addition to joining the AMA, you must also be a member of the Richmond Area Radio Control Club. Annual club dues cover flying site rental, field maintenance, pit area improvements, and grass mowing. The club also hosts several events each year.

Joining AMA & The Club

  • Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA): Full membership or youth registration with valid AMA insurance coverage is required for all active pilots on the flight line.
  • Club Membership: You can complete your membership application and pay dues directly through the club website or in person at an upcoming club event.
  • Instructor Guidance: Instructors are available on-site during flight training and club events to walk you through the signup process step-by-step.