GCMFC Documentation

1. Induction Manual

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2. GCMFC By-Laws

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 3. Model Flying Etiquette

Good manners and common sense.
Over the years, certain informal rules of etiquette have evolved that help make the hobby safer and friendlier when flying with others. The only problem is that many of these guidelines are not intuitive to newcomers. So here are a few basic tips to help us all share the sky in harmony. Most potential conflicts with other modelers can be avoided with just a little foresight, a humble demeanour, and good communication.

Pilots Box.
The Pilots Box is there for a reason. After launching or take off all pilots flying should move to the flight box and remain in this area for the full duration of the flight. This will enable communication between all pilots at all times. The taxi way is for planes not pilots.

Hand-Launching.
If your launching a model when other pilots are flying or in the vicinity, make sure you launch your model a safe distance away from others, ensuring that is not going to fly in front of or close to other pilots.

Propellers are dangerous.
We tend to focus our attention on avoiding them only when we are close to a running model. Sure, that's a good idea. But props can also be dangerous to those outside the immediate area. They have been known to shed blades or come completely off of the airplane. The best way to prevent injury to other pilots or innocent bystanders in such a situation is to ensure that your model is forward of and pointing away from other people before starting your motor or engine on the ground. Likewise, you shouldn't linger in those danger zones when others are starting up.

One model at a time.
Some modelers are wary about flying when other models are in the sky. They have difficulty tuning out the other models. It isn't always practical to put up just one model at a time. But it's nice to accommodate those who prefer solo flights when you can.  This is especially true when dealing with pilots in training, the maiden flight of a new model, or a particularly demanding model. When flying solo be aware that other pilots may be waiting to have a fly so don't hog the field, limit you flight to a maximum of 15 minutes. Even though it is generally agreed to have multiple models flying at the same time, you want to avoid having too wide of a performance envelope. The odds of mid-air conflicts are much greater than with similar-performing models. Sure, it can be done with proper coordination. But it's not cool to launch your fast, pointy jet while a park-flyer is flitting about

When you're flying.
When you’re flying your attention is (and should be) focused on your model. That's why it is important to broadcast your intentions to other pilots. They need to know things like whether the runway is blocked or you're having an in-flight emergency. It is generally accepted that you announce to other pilots (in a loud, clear voice) when you are:
Obscuring the runway with your model or yourself - "On the strip".
Off the runway – "Strip clear"
About to take off/hand-launch/land – "Taking off left to right"
Making a low pass over the runway - "Low pass right to left"
Having an in-flight emergency – "Dead stick!"
It's nice to get an acknowledgement of your announcements from other pilots. A simple "OK" will suffice.
If you're not flying and have an opportunity to reply with more detail, that can be even better. For instance, if someone yells "Dead stick!" (meaning that their engine quit), you can give them a quick rundown to help them land safely. "The traffic has cleared and the runway is yours."
In general, voice call-outs should be used to provide everyone with a more detailed situational awareness.

Some modelers prefer to avoid any distractions while they're on the sticks.
It's not a matter of skill or confidence. It's just personal preference.
Consider this before you initiate conversation with an actively-flying pilot.
If you don't know their preference for chatting on the flight line, it's best to wait until they land.
When an instructor is training a new pilot, he needs to minimize distractions and help the student focus on the fundamentals of flying. That's hard to do when someone walks up during a training flight and asks if they’ve seen 'Wonder Woman' yet.
Even worse is when they offer the student unsolicited flying tips during a training session. One coach is plenty…two is detrimental.

Please try to adopt these etiquette rules, as our club is friendly and safe place to fly. The Committee will take all necessary steps to make sure this continues to be the case.

4. General Resources

Fixed Wings
Check List for Inspection of a Model Aircraft - Fixed Wing
Fixed Wing Powered - Bronze & Silver Wings
Fixed Wing Powered - Gold Wings

Rotary Wings
Check List for Inspection of Model Aircraft - Rotary
Helicopter - Bronze & Silver Wings
Helicopter - Gold Wings

MAAA's Policy on Non-MAAA Affiliated Members
The MAAA has a strong policy on clubs having members that are not MAAA affiliated members or that allow pilots who are not MAAA members to fly at their fields. Under this current policy, WAM cannot allow anyone to fly at our fields unless affiliated with the MAAA or as a signed-in visitor, who can only be classed as a visitor on 4 occasions.

Pilots Log Book
This book can be used to prepare for Bronze and Gold Wings. It's quite old now, but still useful for seeing what is required in an easy to read printed format.

Flying with Control Brochure
This brochure was produced by MAAA and CASA in relation to Radio Controlled Aircraft.

CASA AC 101-3 (UNMANNED AIRCRAFT AND ROCKETS)
2.1 This document has been developed to provide guidance to builders and operators of model aircraft in the operation and construction of model aircraft and the means whereby they may safely and legally operate these aircraft.