Completely New To The Hobby?
Don’t buy anything! …. Yet. Contact the Club Membership Secretary Simon Robinson secretarywmac@hotmail.com or other committee member to arrange a visit to the club’s secured site. We will be delighted to show you the variety of models, equipment and their general operation, as well as explaining the site rules and no doubt introduce you to a few members. We have some trainer aircraft set up with a ‘buddy box’ dual control system which we can give you a totally free trial flight (or two) to whet your appetite. You can also observe different types of model being flown. Sport, Scale, Gliders, Fast, Slow, Large & Small, with power provided by i/c engines and electric motors. With your appetite hopefully whetted, your host will be able to assist your next steps including club membership, joining the BMFA , the governing body for most UK model flying and which provides essential 3rd Party Insurance. New members will also need to register with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
One of our club trainers for trial flights
Flight Training For All
Whether a complete novice and newcomer to the hobby or someone with previous model flight experience, safe and effective operation of model aircraft is essential. To fly and operate solo and unsupervised, all club members are required to gain a minimum of a BMFA Achievement ‘A’ Test proficiency standard. This requires the pilot to demonstrate a few basic manoeuvres and answer some relevant questions. (See BMFA Achievement Scheme Web Site For Full Details).
Subsequently, more advanced achievements can be undertaken and specialised knowledge and skills developed, focussing perhaps on a specific type of model. Here are a few of the recommended items from the BMFA which, in conjunction with your practical training and instructor’s guidance, will explain in greater detail how to operate and fly your model aircraft safely, efficiently and enjoyable.
