Arvada Associated Modelers (AAM) offers free training to individuals that are interested in learning to fly radio controlled (“RC”) model aircraft. The program and instruction are FREE and includes use of “Club-owned” airplanes and radios (if needed). However, the Club will also instruct with equipment (i.e. airplanes and radios) provided by the Student. The program is tailored to each individuals’ needs and goals and designed to be flexible to suit both Student and Instructor. The days and times for instruction are determined by each Student and Instructor. Please also see Section “SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR STUDENT PILOTS” on the “FIELD ETIQUETTE, RULES, POLICIES AND SPECIAL PROVISIONS” page. Here is how it works…

• For instruction services, please contact the Chief Flight Instructor (CFI):

Please include information about the Student, any special learning needs, and dates and times that are preferred by the Student. Please also include any previous RC flying experience, type of aircraft (if provided by Student), and any other information you’d care to share;

• The CFI will contact you and may request additional information. The CFI will then pair the Student with one of our certified flight Instructors;
• An Instructor will then contact you and go over any requirements for training, including joining the Academy of Model Aeronautics, and arrange training dates and times. The frequency and availability of training sessions will be worked out between the Student and the Instructor.

Training and instruction conclude with a “solo” demonstration flight, an informal Solo Exam, and awarding the Student with a framed Solo Flight Certificate.

Instructors

All of the Club’s Instructors are well qualified to teach the basics of RC flying. Most are also qualified to teach advanced techniques and skills such as aerobatics. Instructors are also adept at identifying the needs and capabilities of each Student, and determining when a student is ready to solo. Also, all Instructors are registered AMA “Intro Pilot Instructors.”

 

If you own your own plane…

We also encourage new fliers to bring your own plane (if you already have one). We will be happy to inspect the model for safety and airworthiness, trim it to fly straight, and help you learn the fundamentals of flying your plane with a buddy box (subject to compatibility and suitability). We will do our best to accommodate any aircraft that you may have, but certain aircraft are not suitable trainers and there are some that do not have the ability to utilize a trainer system (i.e. buddy box).

Current members or other experienced RC flyers…

Existing members and experienced RC flyers are also welcome to take advantage of training services. If you’re feeling a little rusty or need help “maidening” a new plane, contact the Chief Flight Instructor, and we’ll get you some help. We are primarily a Radio Control aeromodelling Club and proper training is essential to safe, fun flying!

Control Line (“CL”) enthusiasts…

We also have instruction for control line enthusiasts. This is a very unique and fun activity and may be done at considerably less cost than radio control modelling because there is no radio. Please let us know if you are interested in CL flying.

Visit the Airpark

Anyone interested in learning more about building and flying RC and CL models are welcome to visit the Airpark. You can arrange a guided visit or may simply show up to observe activity whenever the Airpark is open. The best times to visit the Airpark are on weekends during daylight hours, weather permitting (see map for location of the Airpark).

Training “Open House” Events

The Club periodically hosts Open House events which include introductory training. During an Open House individuals interested in learning to fly can take a no risk, no obligation introductory flight with a certified Instructor using a Club training plane and buddy box. Please check the Club Calendar for possible upcoming Training events.

Training Preferences and Priorities

Although the Club would like to accommodate everyone, Instructors and resources are limited. Therefore, the Club reserves the right to prioritize Students that have: A) already joined Arvada Associated Modelers and/or the Academy of Model Aeronautics; or B) already made an investment in equipment (i.e. model aircraft and radio).

Common Questions

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Learning to fly radio-controlled aircraft is easier than ever before. The current equipment and technology are designed to make learning easy and fun. In most cases, newcomers (including young children) can become proficient in just a few weeks. Instructors are adept at tailoring instruction based on the needs of each Student. Students will learn to fly in fun, safe and zero-pressure environment.

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This is a personal decision for each modeler. There are numerous versions of trainer aircraft (electric or other) available to the new RC flyer. If you are new to the hobby and don’t know where to begin, talk to an experienced modeler or visit a local hobby shop. The hobby shops will be happy to offer opinions and advice and are familiar with AAM’s Training program. The current electric trainer plane, in use and recommended by the Club, is the 1.1M Hobby Zone AeroScout®, Ready-To-Fly (RTF) version, with Spektrum’s exclusive SAFE® (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) technology. This airplane and technology is one of the best Trainer aircraft ever made for the hobby. It comes nearly ready-to-fly (out of the box) and is very easy to learn on. Subsequent to basic instruction, the AeroScout® is also capable of advanced sport flying and aerobatics.

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Many ready-to-fly (minor assembly required) electric aircraft, including the AeroScout®, cost around $200 – $300. However, other items may need to be purchased such as batteries, a battery charger, a battery checker, etc. Again, the best place to start is your local hobby shop or by consulting an experienced modeler.

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Very likely, YES! However, it depends on the age and the child and their level of interest. The Club does not restrict or limit instruction by age. Generally, any child that has a keen and sustained interest in the hobby and learning how to fly, will probably be successful.

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If you have additional questions or, for more information or flight assistance outside of our formal training events, contact the Chief Flight Instructor.

Program Sponsors

AAM would like to acknowledge and thank the following businesses and individuals for their generous support of the “AAM Learn to Fly Program”:

• Action Hobbies (Dave Jones)
• Rodger Barsch
• Lanny Hansen
• Danyel Wynn