Effective January 1, 2018
A model aircraft is a non-human-carrying device capable of sustained flight within visual line of sight of the pilot or spotter(s). It may not exceed limitations of this code
and is intended exclusively for sport, recreation, education and/or competition. All model flights must be conducted in accordance with this safety code and related AMA
guidelines, any additional rules specific to the flying site, as well as all applicable laws and regulations.
As an AMA member I agree:
• I will not fly a model aircraft in a careless or reckless manner.
• I will not interfere with and will yield the right of way to all human-carrying
aircraft using AMA’s See and Avoid Guidance and a spotter when appropriate.
• I will not operate any model aircraft while I am under the influence of alcohol
or any drug that could adversely affect my ability to safely control the model.
• I will avoid flying directly over unprotected people,
moving vehicles, and occupied structures.
• I will fly Free Flight (FF) and Control Line (CL) models in
compliance with AMA’s safety programming.
• I will maintain visual contact of an RC model aircraft without enhancement
other than corrective lenses prescribed to me. When using an advanced
flight system, such as an autopilot, or flying First-Person View (FPV),
I will comply with AMA’s Advanced Flight System programming.
• I will only fly models weighing more than 55 pounds, including
fuel, if certified through AMA’s Large Model Airplane Program.
• I will only fly a turbine-powered model aircraft in
compliance with AMA’s Gas Turbine Program.
• I will not fly a powered model outdoors closer than 25 feet to any individual,
except for myself or my helper(s) located at the flightline, unless I am taking
off and landing, or as otherwise provided in AMA’s Competition Regulation.
• I will use an established safety line to separate all model
aircraft operations from spectators and bystanders.