LEATHERHEAD MODEL FLYING CLUB

To all new fliers

 

 

Welcome to LMFC where you will find plenty of help and advice from members with skills and experience in building and flying models. If you have not already purchased your first model, please seek some of that help and advice first. We can help you to avoid "difficult" engines, "unsuitable" trainers and radios that are incompatible. We may also know of good second hand equipment, which could save you time and money.

 

To enable you to reach the BMFA  "A" certificate standard, which is a recognition of your ability to fly a basic model safely, we will provide training. Our aim is to ensure that you succeed without hazard to yourself, your model, your colleagues and our neighbours.

 

Training really starts before your first model is ready to fly:

 

            While you are building, make time to come along to the flying field on Saturday afternoons, Sunday mornings or Wednesday evenings. It is a chance to get to know us, to see how we operate and to ask questions.

 

            As your first model is nearing completion get some experienced comments. Either bring it along to the field, or to a Thursday evening meeting, or get one of the members to give it a good looking over.

 

            When it is ready - take some time to check everything - then check everything again - don’t leave things to do on the field if you can avoid it! Then make sure that the batteries are fully charged before bringing it for its maiden flight.

 

First flights need good weather conditions. If it is windy or wet you will have to be patient. Bide your time with a good book - I can recommend "Up and Away" by John Long. It is full of good advice and you can get a free copy when you affiliate to BMFA.

 

You will need the help of a club instructor. We insist on this until you have passed your "A" test. To avoid the disappointment of turning up when no instructor is there, it is a good idea to give me a ring on the Friday evening (01372 272933). I usually manage to be available on Sunday morning, occasionally Saturday afternoon, but seldom both. I try to keep up to date with when other instructors are going to be there.

 

Remember that learning does not end with basic training and the “A” Certificate. When you progress to more challenging models, we will be there again to guide you past the pitfalls.

 

You will find some additional notes and advice on the following pages. I hope you will find them useful.

 

Looking forward to meeting you,

              Happy Landings

 

   Geoff Bignold

LMFC Training Officer.