Newsletters

   
July 2022 Newsletter

New Member

 A big Bromsgrove Welcome to our newest member, Mark Biddle. He was introduced by Tyler and has been flying quads for some while.

Should you see Mark up at the patch, be sure to give him the usual BMFC welcome.

New bank details

As our old bank decided to start charging us for looking after our money, Hugh has been looking at getting us a new bank account to save the club paying fees.

I am pleased to report he has succeeded, and will be saving us £5 per month…

Good work Hugh.  Thank you

So please be warned that if you have the old details saved, these will be changing.

The new details are…

Bank Name         = NATIONAL WESTMINSTER BANK PLC

Name of Account = Bromsgrove Model Flying Club

Sort Code           = 60-04-05

Account Number = 85294624

Mobile Phones

There was an interesting item in the BMFA magazine   about possible phone interference on transmitters. If you use your phone as a timer in the pilots box could you please put it in airplane mode. If you don’t use your phone in that way, it is probably better to leave it in your flight box.

We can only try it and see if we get fewer ‘incidents’.

 

All Day Fly Number 2

The date for the 2nd All Day Fly is set for Saturday July 23rd weather permitting..

Dust off those models and check your battery charge and lets have a great day.

See you soon “Up the patch” …..

Alan Brown & The Committee

 
June 2022 Newsletter

New Member

 A big Bromsgrove Welcome to our newest member, Dave Stansbie.  (This means the popularity of Dave / David is now equal to that of Steve / Stephen with 6 each!) Should you see Dave (Stansbie) up at the patch, be sure to give him the usual BMFC welcome.

 

“A” and “B" Test passes

Many congratulations to Tim Norton who breezed through his “A” test with his Riot. Tim was spotted doing (intentional) inverted circuits on his very next visit to the patch. It must be something in the genes.

Talking of inverted flying..   we also had our youngest “B” test pass ever when Will Picken (AKA the Knife Edge Kid) was put through his paces by Richard and Sir Bob and showed us some fantastic flying skills with his Hype.

Acrobatics

Its good to keep pushing your flying skills, and remember our instructors are on hand if you want any help or advice with new manoeuvres.

However… Please don’t try any outrageous aerobatics directly over the patch please. (remember .. Safety First!)

If there are more planes in the air than you would like for flying aerobatics, its probably better to wait for someone to land before attempting something new.

Three Counties Show

Unfortunately the show we had been asked to attend has been cancelled due to clashes with the Jubilee celebrations.

Hopefully we will get another invite next year.

Patch Safety: Set your failsafe

For those that may not be aware… (Please ask if you are unsure about anything)

Setting your failsafe dictates what will happen if your plane looses the signal from your transmitter. EG goes ‘out of range, or if the TX batteries go flat.

It is available on all 2.4Mhz transmitters and on some 35Mhz transmitters and MUST be set if available on your setup.

Ideally you want to at least slow an IC engine to tick over or stop an electric motor.

That way your plane should not become a high speed unguided missile, but turn into a slower glider and give you a chance to try and regain control.

Generally the failsafe setting is where your Transmitter sticks are when you bind your model.

So if you bound to your model and then had to reverse the throttle, you may be in for a surprise when your test your failsafe!

The way to test this is to properly restrain your model and get its prop running at full speed.

Then turn OFF your transmitter … Your IC Engine should return to tickover and your electric motor should stop.  

If you have any difficulty setting your failsafe then please ask for help.

All Day Fly Number 1

All Day Fly Number 1 was a great day. The weather was practically perfect for flying, and there were burgers and cake a plenty.

Many thanks to all those that that made the day such a fantastic success.

All Day Fly Number 2

The date for the 2nd All Day Fly is set for July 23rd weather permitting..

See you soon “Up the patch” and get ready for ADF #2 …..

Alan Brown & The Committee

May 2022 Newsletter

All Day Fly #1

Charge up those batteries and check over those planes that have not been given an outing in a while..   The first All Day Fly of the year will be on 21st May.. We will make the GO / NO GO call on Friday 20th May.

Mental Health Awareness Week

Just a reminder that it is mental health awareness week.

Life can sometimes get you down, but remember you are part of a fantastic flying club. Even if you don’t really feel up to it, come along for the flying, the banter, a pint and a chat.

If you could just do with getting things off your chest, need a natter or can’t see a way out of a problem, come and have a chat with the guys.

If you need a more confidential chat, then the committee members (and I'm sure others), will lend an ear and try and help in whatever way they can.

A problem shared is a problem halved and nothing is insurmountable.

You are a member of a fantastic club , and you are not alone.

Just a reminder of IC Flying Times (electric remains unchanged)

Mon to Thur         10am to 4pm

Fri                                               2pm     to 7pm (Summer)   and     10am to 4pm (Winter)

Saturday               10am to 2pm

Sunday                 10am to 2pm ( All Bank Holidays are Sunday Hours)

Please note that we have changed Saturday Afternoons to Saturday Mornings for IC flying.

The All Day Fly times will remain unchanged.

Three Counties Show

Unfortunately the show we had been asked to attend has been cancelled due to clashes with the Jubilee celebrations.

Hopefully we will get another invite next year.

Patch Safety: Set your failsafe

For those that may not be aware…

Setting your failsafe dictates what will happen if your plane looses the signal from your transmitter. EG goes ‘out of range, or if the TX batteries go flat.

It is available on all 2.4Mhz transmitters and on some 35Mhz transmitters.

Ideally you want to at least slow an IC engine to tick over or stop an electric motor.

That way your plane should not become a high speed unguided missile, but turn into a slower glider and give you a chance to try and regain control.

Generally the failsafe setting is where your Transmitter sticks are when you bind your model.

So if you bound to your model and then had to reverse the throttle, you may be in for a surprise when your test your failsafe!

The way to test this is to properly restrain your model and get its prop running at full speed.

Then turn OFF your transmitter … Your IC Engine should return to tickover and your electric motor should stop.  

If you have any difficulty setting your failsafe then please ask for help.

See you soon “Up the patch” and get ready for ADF #1 ….. 

Alan Brown & The Committee

April 2022 Newsletter

New Committee Member 

A big thank you to David Harvey for stepping up and joining the committee.   Welcome aboard and we hope you don’t find it too taxing!

Lower Bentley Parish Council – Re- IC Flying Times

 We have had a reply from Lower Bentley Parish Council and they are very appreciative of our efforts, so thank you all for that.

They have asked if we would implement the suggested changes ASAP so please see below...

There are no changes to electric flying times but we have agreed that IC flying times will change as below.  We will keep Friday afternoon flying for IC for those who work and pop past on an evening for a quick ‘fix’.

IC Flying Times  (electric remains unchanged)

Mon to Thur        10am  to  4pm 

Fri                                                 2pm    to 7pm  (Summer)   and    10am to 4pm (Winter)

Saturday              10am  to 2pm

Sunday                10am  to 2pm

Please note that we have changed Saturday Afternoons to Saturday Mornings for IC flying.

The All Day Fly times will remain unchanged

Three Counties Show

The club have been asked if we would like to take part in the Three Counties Show in Malvern on 4th June 2022 as part of the Queens Jubilee Celebration.  They already have a full size Spitfire and Hurricane replica and a fly past by a Lancaster booked, so we are in good company.

We hope to be able to put on a static display of some nice warbirds etc, maybe the BMFA Simulator Trailer and IF room allows, put on a flying display too. 

It will be a great opportunity to promote the club and model flying in general.

If you can help on the day or have any good looking warbirds that you would be willing to display, please let a member of the committee know.  It looks as if it will be a good day out, and as well as chatting to the public, you can also have a look at all the other events going on…

Patch Safety: a reminder

 Retrieving: make sure everyone has heard you.

When on the patch to retrieve a model, please make sure that everyone is aware that you are stepping onto the runway. Its easy to ‘tune out’ the background conversations when concentrating on flying, so be sure to make it loud.

 If anyone is flying and someone shouts ‘landing’ and you know there is someone on the runway, please let the flyer know to abort the landing if possible. 

 If a ‘deadstick’ has been called, the flyer has priority, so let the person on the runway know, so that they can get clear.

 Please wait until the runway is clear before doing acrobatics over the runway or ‘beating up the patch’.

 OK to Take Off? …  wait for the nods

If you are flying and someone asks if it is ok to take off, please try and nod (or shake your head , for ‘no’), as a visual cue as its not always possible to hear a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ when facing away and over the noise of a running engine.

 Shout ‘Clear’ when you have cleared the runway, so others may land.

 If in doubt when on your approach, then keep your eyes on your model and ask others if the runway is clear.

 Landing: Call and step forward

Call ‘Landing’, ‘Touch and Go’ and step to the front of the pilots box.  It’s a  good visual cue for everyone NOT to go onto the runway.

Stay Safe and Have Fun…..

 BMFC Clothing

Some of you have been asking about having polo shirts, caps, fleeces etc
with the BMFC logo.  This was done many years ago which some longer standing
members might remember, but we have many new members now so we are looking
at doing it again.  We have recently modified the Club Logo (see club
website or at the top of this newsletter) to say ‘Bromsgrove Model Flying
Club’ whereas the old one didn’t have the work ‘Model’.

We’ve had some quotes back from a company called ‘Embroidery
Express/Stitches’.  Embroidery Express <https://embroideryexpress.co.uk/>
If you browse their site there are numerous products so if you are
interested rather than restrict what you can order it’s up to you!

Please send any requests to Richard Wood 9richwood@gmail.com by Monday 2nd May

Please state:
-Your Name
-Full description of Name
-Product Code
-Colour
-Size
-Price add £5 for the Club Logo (eg Polo Shirt at £6.89 + £5.00 for the Logo = £11.89 total)

ie Richard Wood, Classic Poloshirt EE-UC101 Navy, Medium, £11.89

We will then submit so they can embroider the club logo on the left breast
of any clothing or on the centre of a Cap etc 

Remember the May All Day Fly is approaching…  we will set an exact date nearer the time.

See you soon “Up the patch”  …..

 

Alan Brown & The Committee

March 2022 Newsletter

New Member

A big welcome to Tim Norton. (Yes its Sir Bobs son!) His Riot is trimmed out and ready to go. We just need the wind to drop a little. Be sure to say Hi when you see him.

 

Kevin Walker

As you have probably heard, Kevin passed away on 17th February. We are still reeling from this at the moment, but his family have been in touch and asked if we could post any photos, songs or memories of Kevin on https://kevin-walker.muchloved.com

It would be great for the family if we could post pictures / memories of Kevin showing what he meant to the club.

You can share anything privately with the family at kwskodaman_memories@outlook.com

There is a fundraising page also and any donations are being split between Hearing Dogs for The Deaf and the Samaritans.

Kevins funeral / celebration will be on 23rd March 2022 at 11:30 am Wordsley Holy Trinity Church

Holy Trinity Church
High Street
Wordsley
West Midlands

DY8 5RU

Many of us have voiced how Kevin has been instrumental in getting into the hobby.

When I joined the club back in 2002, Kevin was the only person doing any training to speak of.  Back then we used the “snatch method”. Just like it sounds, Kevin would get the plane flying straight and level, and then hand me the transmitter. When it all started to go wrong I would “calmly” hand the transmitter back to Kevin, (plane in a dive and 10ft off the deck), for Kevin to get flying again.   The man had ice water in his veins.   I will forever be grateful for his patience, instruction and friendship in the past 20 years. He has literally taught me everything I know about model flying. A man who just loved to impart his knowledge and love of the hobby. A true inspiration. Thank you for it all Kevin. 

Curry Night.

Don’t forget that Wednesday night is Curry Night at the Shimla Peppers,

If you don't like Curries then they do serve English food so don't let it
stop you.

Don't forget to bring your own drinks!!

You can park in 'St John Street' car park (used to be called 'Hanover St'
car park) where Waitrose is for FREE from 19:00.  This is at the end of the
Kidderminster road and is about 50 yards away from the restaurant.

1 George St, Bromsgrove B61 7EE.

Just park on Waitrose car park and walk through the passage at the back of the car park and turn left. Follow the buildings riund to the left and you will get to the Shimla Peppers.

Please let Richard Wood know by Whatsapp, text or email 9richwood@gmail.com
if you want to come along, if you haven’t done so already, so that he can let them know how many to expect.

https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Shimla+Peppers/@52.3330374,-2.0641875,17
z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x2dae18d58b054644!8m2!3d52.3333914!4d-2.0628249

Working Party

If you can make it up to the patch on Saturday 9th March, we are just re-arranging any stray slabs by the car park and laying some slabs down for the mower to live on when the weather improves.

We will meet at about 10.00am. Should only be a couple of hours, and you can always have a fly afterwards.

April Club Night

We are having a Simulator Night for Aprils club night. If you have or haven’t had a go with a simulator, it can be fun. Come along and try the other mode or some manoeuvres you would like to try at the patch. All this and beer too!

Fancy flying off/over a reservoir?

We've been approached by Barnt Green Fishing Club, who control the fisheries
at Bittell Reservoir near Barnt Green (Three Reservoirs), to see if we could
help them in frightening away Cormorant birds which are becoming an
increasing problem for them.  They have tried various tactics with varying
degrees of success but would like us to try flying model aircraft off the
reservoir or use Multi-rotor copters to try and deter them.  We are not sure
if this will be a one off exercise or a regular thing but if you are
interested then let Richard Wood know by Whatsapp, text or email
9richwood@gmail.com

We will try and arrange the initial visit on a weekend to maximise
attendance for those that may be working.  So if you have a set of floats
for your model or a Mutli-rotor Copter with FPV, then give me a shout. Two
of the reservoirs are definitely big enough to fly from with a plane.

See you soon “Up the patch” or maybe “down the reservoir”…..

Alan Brown & The Committee

February 2022 Newsletter

New Members

We have 2 new members this month. Andy Freestone and Terry Davies. Many Happy Returns to you Terry, and welcome to you both.

Please be sure to give them the usual BMFC welcome when you see them at the patch.

“A" Test passes

We have had 2 “A" test passes this month. A very well done to Rob Pinches and Alex Brown. Now the real learning starts, but don’t forget we are still here to help out where and when we can.

New Year Meal at the Nailers Arms.

Our traditional cavery meal at the Nailors Arms went down very well with the members who went. Its always a good night, and nice to have a meal and a good chat with others, and even the seldom seen ‘other halves' had a great night.

Sun Visors

The idea may have started off as a bit of a joke, but when people are waiting to fly when one of our sun-visors is free, you know it’s a good idea. Richard has made up two such sun screens, and these can be stuck in the ground just in front of where you fly. I have used them myself and it’s a very simple and effective way of blocking the sun when its low in the winter. They are kept by the tree with the ammo box on if you are looking for them. Just stick then in the ground near the tree when you are done for the day.

Wind Sock Pole

Richard has been busy, and also made a new pole for the wind sock out of steel. This is also free standing and does not need the hole in the ground.

Fancy flying off/over a reservoir?

We've been approached by Barnt Green Fishing Club, who control the fisheries
at Bittell Reservoir near Barnt Green (Three Reservoirs), to see if we could
help them in frightening away Cormorant birds which are becoming an
increasing problem for them.  They have tried various tactics with varying
degrees of success but would like us to try flying model aircraft off the
reservoir or use Multi-rotor copters to try and deter them.  We are not sure
if this will be a one off exercise or a regular thing but if you are
interested then let Richard Wood know by Whatsapp, text or email
9richwood@gmail.com

We will try and arrange the initial visit on a weekend to maximise
attendance for those that may be working.  So if you have a set of floats
for your model or a Mutli-rotor Copter with FPV, then give me a shout. Two
of the reservoirs are definitely big enough to fly from with a plane.

Curry Night Wednesday 9th March
It's time we had another Curry night.  So the next one will be at the usual
place, Shimla Peppers, 1 George Street, Bromsgrove, B61 7EE, on Wednesday
9th March at 19:30.  This is next to Waitrose in the centre of Bromsgrove.

If you don't like Curries then they do serve English food so don't let it
stop you.

You can park in 'St John Street' car park (used to be called 'Hanover St'
car park) where Waitrose is for FREE from 19:00.  This is at the end of the
Kidderminster road and is about 50 yards away from the restaurant.

Don't forget to bring your own drinks.

Please let Richard Wood know by Whatsapp, text or email 9richwood@gmail.com
if you want to come along.

https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Shimla+Peppers/@52.3330374,-2.0641875,17
z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x2dae18d58b054644!8m2!3d52.3333914!4d-2.0628249

Working Party

We will be getting a working party together to help lay slabs for parking and for the mower to live on , now that the better weather is coming.

Weather permitting we are going for Saturday 19th February at about 10.00am. Should only be a couple of hours, and you can always have a fly afterwards.

CAA registration becoming due

Most members will have seen an e-mail from the CAA or BMFA asking to renew your CAA registration.   (Newer members may not have, as the registration lasts for 12 months from your first joining, so is dependant on when you first registered)

Its still £9 and your operator ID should be the same as last year.

To renew, just follow the link in the e-mail you were sent, and follow the instructions. (You only need the operator ID)

Do remember that you operator ID should be displayed on all your aircraft.

See you soon “Up the patch” or maybe “down the reservoir”…..

Alan Brown & The Committee

 

January 2022 Newsletter

Membership Numbers:

Good news:- We start 2022 with 56 Members

New Year Meal at the Nailers Arms.

On meet at 7:00pm to eat at 7:30pm , Wednesday 12th January 2022, we will be having our traditional cavery meal at the Nailers Arms , 62 Doctors Hill, Bromsgrove   B61 9JE.

Its always a very good evening, and we will be voting to see who receives the trophies this year… (Can last years recipients please return their trophies to a member of the committee please)

At last count we had 24 members attending. If anyone else is interested in attending, please let me know ASAP, as we need to let the Nailors Arms know what numbers to seat.

(You will have to pay on the evening)

 

Alan:-     Phone 07875 866535           email earthtoalan@hotmail.co.uk

CAA Fees

Due to CAA fees running for 12 months from whenever you first registered, you will need to renew your membership individually. You will get an e-mail from them reminding you when the time comes. (We as a club do not get any reminders for you, so it would be a nightmare)

Winter Parking

Crossing onto the grass parking on the right of the track is a NO GO now due to the rain.

The grass itself is now too wet.. We do have the slabs to the left and the whole path to play with, (As the cows have gone until spring), so still plenty of parking.

NB the slabs to the left have the green sticks in the centre to mark the actual parking spots.

So the green stick should be centre of your car bonnet as you pull on. It helps to ensure your wheels are on the slabs when parking.

Any Rubble?

If anyone has any Bricks or general hardcore, or knows where we might be able to source some locally, please let us know. (but not tiles as they break and have sharp edges that puncture tyres)

Stuart Worrall noticed some work going on at a local bungalow, and we were able to get quite a haul of half bricks etc to help fill pot holes etc.

Curry Evening

We will be looking to organise another oriental outing in February. Keep an eye on whatsapp and email nearer the time.

All Day Flys

We have pencilled in dates for the All Day Flys. (We do tend to wait for the silage to be cut however, so there may be some slight variation)…

21st May 2022

23rd July 2022

17th September 2022

Hope to see you at 7.00pm for 7:30 on 12th January meal at the Nailers Arms, Doctors Hill, B61 9JE

See you soon “Up the patch” …..

Alan Brown & The Committee

 
December 2021 Newsletter

 

Next Years Fees:

Bromsgrove Model Flying Club Fees.. (BMFA is Extra and mentioned below)
 

New Members                                                  £70 + one off £25 joining fee (Total £95)

 

Existing Members (BEFORE 31.12.2021)           £70  


N.B.The price goes up to £80 for late payers after 31.12.2021 - please pay promptly

NB Please remember to add £5 if you would like to attend the subsidised January meal at the Nailers Arms on 12th December 2021..  Its always a good evening.  (Subsidised £5 for members and £10 for non-members)

2022 Membership fees (renewals will be available from 1st December 2021)

Senior £40.00
Junior £18.00

Family Partner £27.00
Family Junior £14.00

Please note that due to a price increase from the supplier, the optional plastic membership and rewards card will be £4.50 for 2022.

 

Example...   Existing Snr member rejoining BMFC and BMFA before 31.12.2020 = £110.00   (or £115.00 if you are coming to the January meal)


As last year can you please pay fees by bank transfer, if at all possible.  (Its Contact free!)

Account Name: Bromsgrove Flying Club
Bank: HSBC, Bromsgrove
Sort Code: 40-15-07
Account Number: 91059327
Payment reference: Please include your name

If you could also e-mail Hugh to let him know you have paid, at  hugh.revill@hotmail.co.uk

Or (if you must) hand delivered or through the post, sent to:
Hugh Revill  ,
14 Green Bower Drive,
Bromsgrove,
B61 0UN

I am pleased to say that they were all prepared to stand again this year, so my thanks for this year in advance.

 

New Year Meal at the Nailers Arms.

On Wednesday 12th January 2022, we will be having our traditional cavery meal at the Nailors Arms , 62 Doctors Hill, Bromsgrove   B61 9JE.

 

Its always a very good evening, and we will be voting to see who receives the trophies this year… (Can last years recipients please return their trophies to a member of the committee please)

 

For members the cost for a carvery meal will be £5 and for non-members (Wives , Girlfriends or both..) £10.

 

You can have a sweet but this will be down to individual members to purchase the sweet of your choice.

 

If you are going to attend the January meal, please let Alan Brown know via e-mail or text.

We will need to give the Nailors an idea of the numbers attending.

 

Please let me know you are going…

Alan:-     Phone 07875 866535           email earthtoalan@hotmail.co.uk

As usual you can add the cost of the meal to the fees paid in December.

 

CAA Fees

Due to CAA fees running for 12 months from whenever you first registered, you will need to renew your membership individually. You will get an e-mail from them reminding you when the time comes. (We as a club do not get any reminders for you, so it would be a nightmare)

 

New Committee

My thanks to all of last years committee for the hard work and planning that kept us all flying, cut the grass, looked for and at equipment, and gave us 3 fantastic BBQ’s. These things do not just happen, and this is a big part of what makes our club so very good.

Winter Parking

Crossing onto the grass parking on the right of the track is getting quite boggy now.

A few slabs have been dropped down to help, but if there has been a lot of rain, please use the slabs on the left. We do not want to chew the grass up.

We can of course park by the gate if parking is short. Just leave room for people to get by.

Electric Fence

The cows have now gone from the field until April / May next year, so the electric fence has been removed for the winter.

Working Party

We will be looking to get a working party together to move some slabs about for parking cars and the mower, and add some rubble around the track. (We have already had one visit with a trailer full of half bricks)

We will put a date out on WhatsApp.

If you have any rubble or slabs to get rid of, then please bring them upto the patch. (No broken tiles please as they are sharp and can puncture tyres)

 

Hope to see you on 12th January meal at the Nailers Arms, Doctors Hill, B61 9JE


See you soon “Up the patch” ….. 

Alan Brown & The Committee

 

November 2021 Newsletter

Next Years Fees:

A couple of months ago, we voted as a club to purchase ride on mower, and keep any BMFC fee increases to a minimum.  As discussed at the proposal, the BMFC club fees for next year will be £70 for the year. 
The BMFA fees will probably be the same (£38/pa) or a couple of pounds more for this year, but we are waiting to see what is voted through at their AGM on 20th November. 

Don’t forget to go on-line to renew your CAA membership. (Was £9 last year)  You should get a reminder e-mail from them or the BMFA.

We will let you know what the total fees due as soon as we know, along with the usual payment details.

AGM
We will be holding the AGM at The Bowling Green on 1st December.  We  are looking to supply a ham or cheese roll and chips on the night for those who can make it.

If you are going to attend can you could please text Richard with your Name and your preference of Cheese or Ham please.  (Richard 07917 232673)

There will be the reports and election of new committee members etc.

If you have any points you would like to discuss at the meeting. Please let Ricardo or any member of the committee know and we will add them to the agenda.

New Year Meal.

On Wednesday 12th January 2022, we will be having our traditional cavery meal at the Nailors Arms , Doctors Hill.
For members the cost for a carvery meal will be £5 and for non-members £10.  (Carvery only)
You can have a sweet but this will be down to individual members to purchase the sweet of your choice.

If you are going to attend the winter meal, please let Alan Brown know via e-mail or text.
We will need to give the Nailors an idea of the numbers attending.
Alan    Phone  07875 866535    email  earthtoalan@hotmail.co.uk

As usual you can add the cost of the meal to the fees paid in December.

Curry Night at the Shimla Peppers , Bromsgrove

Just a reminder…   Wednesday 17th November at 7:00pm.
Have you booked with Richard?  It’s a good evening with great food.

For those who have not been before…

Shimla Peppers is in Bromsgrove centre.  Parking is on Morrisons car park and is free after 7:00pm.
You then walk through the ally way at the back left of the car park, and follow the buildings to the left and left at the end of the block.

The food is very good, order what you like and we split the bill. Cost  is (was) about  £16 per head with a tip left.   You will not leave hungry!
Bring your own favourite tipple as they only serve soft drinks.

Club night (AGM + cheese/ham cob + chips) will be on Wednesday 1st December:

See you soon “Up the patch” …..

Alan Brown & The Committee

October 2021 Newsletter

New Member:

We have 1 (returning) new member to welcome this month..
Colin Shepard has re-joined us this month.
Be sure to say Hi and welcome back when you see him up at the patch.

‘A’ Test pass 
Congratulations to Richard Giles who passed his ‘A' test  on a very blustery Sunday.  The wind threw everything at him, but he handled it all in his stride.  A very well done to Richard. Enjoy your solo flying.   

All Day Fly Number 3 … and a big Thank You to Frank Tansley.

Another fantastic days flying.  We were very lucky again with the weather,  and could not believe the difference from the week before.  Light winds and a surprisingly warm day.

A BIG THANKYOU once again to all those that make the day run so well and keep us so well fed. 
A special mention to Stewart Worrall’s and Keith Ward’s other halves who even made cakes and cheese twists for us.  All day fly , BBQ and high tea !  We had 32 people turn up to the fly. A great turnout for an October fly…

There was lots of flying to be had and also a mini sale of planes belonging to Frank Tansley.
There are still a couple of models  and some bits and bobs to be sold, but the running total is at £175 at the moment.  Frank was our only examiner for quite a few years and has done an awful lot for the club in the past. He has now donated the proceeds from the sale towards the club.  So a very big Thank you to Frank also.  We hope that he feels up to it, and can join us a pint down at the Bowling Green next month.  Thank you Frank.

Safety First:-

There have been a few ‘near misses’ recently and we do not want to loose any of you, so.... 

  1. Please ensure you check and assemble your planes properly before take off. The BMFA state “That your aircraft is in a safe condition to complete the flight safely".  If in doubt, do not fly.
  2. Please remember to SHOUT “On The Patch" when putting down or retrieving you aircraft.
  3. No low passes or landing when anyone is still on the patch.
  4. SHOUT “LANDING" and step forward to the front of the pilots box when landing.
  5. SHOUT "DEADSTICK" if you need to land immediately and if you hear this shout then clear the patch as quickly as possible.
  6. Always restrain your aircraft in the pits. 
  7. Always switch your transmitter on before switching the plane on. When switching off, its plane first , then transmitter.

Curry Night at the Shimla Peppers , Bromsgrove

A date for the diary…   Wednesday 17th November at 7:00pm.
Now the nights are drawing in we are starting the world famous (Well in our club anyway) BMFC curry night.
For those who have not partaken…
Shimla Peppers is in Bromsgrove centre.  Parking is on Morrisons car park and is free after 7:00pm.
You then walk through the ally way at the back left of the car park, and follow the buildings to the left and left at the end of the block.
The food is very good, order what you like and we split the bill. Cost  is (was) about  £16 per head with a tip left.   You will not leave hungry!
Bring your own favourite tipple.
If you fancy coming along, just let Richard know.  (We need to give the guys some idea of how many will turn up)

Club night as usual on Wednesday 3rd  November:

We hope to have a tabletop sale at the next club night.  If you have any bits and bobs to sell, why not bring them along.

See you soon “Up the patch” …..

Alan Brown & The Committee 

September 2021 Newsletter

No Newsletter

August 2021 Newsletter

New Members:

We have no less than 5 new members to Welcome this month..
Graham Campbell  ,  Rob Pinches  , Phil Williams  ,  Richard Giles and Tim Walsh.
Be sure to say Hi when you see them up at the patch, and give them the usual Bromsgrove welcome.

An Extra General Meeting is to be held via ZOOM at 8:00pm  on Wednesday 15th September to discuss mowing options:

It is to discuss with you all a couple of options for the long term mowing the strip…

We will need your input to discuss and decide which of the options the membership want to employ.

We hope you can join us on the night. It should not be too long a meeting.

An email with the Zoom meeting link will be sent out with a reminder nearer the time…

All Day Fly Number 2.

What a fantastic days flying.  We were very lucky and dodged all the rain.  Although we did see quite a few heavy showers passing through to the south of us…

A BIG THANKYOU to all those that make the day run so well and keep us so well fed. 
A special mention to Stewart Worrall’s and Keith Ward’s other halves who made cakes for us.

I’m not sure about anyone else but I had a fab days flying and didn’t want very much in the way of tea when I got home!

Don’t forget to go and look at the photographs of the day on the web site… click the link below and head to the gallery..

www.bromsgrovemodelflyingclub.org.uk 

 

No move Track and Trace after 16th August:-

With the end of restrictions on August 16th we will no longer be required to fill in the track and trace details on the WhatsApp group.

Club night as usual on Wednesday 1st  September:

We had a decent number of members turn up at The Bowling Green pub for the August meeting.  (Shaw Lane, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, B60 4BH) The beer is great and the food is just as tasty,  Annnnd  we are indoors now.  Come on down and have a pint and a chin wag ..

Happy and Safe Flying.. See you soon “Up the patch”…..

Alan Brown & The Committee

July 2021 Newsletter

New Members:

We say a big hello to Roger Bull and a welcome back to a former member Brian North.  Be sure to give them the usual Bromsgrove Flying Club welcome when you see them at the patch.

BMFC Website:

Richard has been working behind the scenes on creating a new Website to bring it more up to date and appealing when people visit.  There was loads of great content on the old Website, which we didn't want to lose, so most of it has been copied over, but we will work on reviewing and updating it over time. There is a Gallery area where you can view and save any of the images for your own use.  We plan to replace the Home page photo as we think members had gone off to eat Burgers!!

If you want to add content there is a 'File/Picture Upload' area, under 'Club Information' where you can add up to 10 files, at a time, but each file needs to be no bigger than 8mb.  So if you have photos, stuff For Sale or any thing else then you can upload it to this area where it will be reviewed and then added to the Website.  It area is restricted so you have to create a Login and Password to be able to do this.

Please have a look at the site and if you have any recommendations for improvements or any errors then please contact one of the Committee who will ensure it's looked into.  It really does look very good indeed.

It can be accessed from the original url
www.bromsgrovemodelflyingclub.org.uk  which now points to the new
site..

 

CAA Numbers:-

Please be sure to put your new CAA Operator ID on any models you are flying.  Failing to do so means that you are not flying lawfully.  You have all paid your CAA fee haven’t you?

All Day Fly Number 1:

The first all day fly went very well and was very well attended. Lots of pictures have been uploaded onto the new website, so go and have a look. Parking arrangements worked very well, with just a few cars over spilling to park in the flying field.
The pits were full to the brim but everybody had a great time with plenty of flying.

Press Coverage for the Club:

Hugh Revill has been looking at getting us some fantastic press coverage in the local papers. As a result we have had several enquiries regarding membership.  The piece below looks fantastic and very professional.

All Day Fly Number 2.

We are just waiting for the farmer to take the 2nd silage cut so that we can hold the 2nd All Day Fly. This is likely to be on or after Saturday the 17th July.  We will put another e-mail out as soon as we have a date fixed.

Club night on Wednesday 7th July:

If the weather is good on Wednesday evening, come up to The Bowling Green pub for a pint and a chat. The committee had the last meeting at the pub and it was great to actually be able to meet in person and have a chat and a drink.
Lets hope the rain stays away and we can have our first get together in a long long while.

Hope to you on Wednesday (7th July)  evening if the weather allows..

Alan Brown & The Committee

June 2021 Newsletter

No Newsletter

May 2021 Newsletter


All Day Fly Number #1:

As COVID rules are relaxing, we can at last put on a BBQ and all day fly. To ensure that the silage has been taken, and that we miss bank holidays, ..the date is set for 5th June.

We will postpone by 1 week if the weather does not play ball. The usual GO / NO GO decision will be made on the Friday before and an email / text will be sent out.

 

Field Parking:-

The parking is working very well and we have had some very good turn outs with 20+ cars parked with plenty of room to spare.

 
 
Electric Fence:-

As you are probably aware the cows are now out in the parking field and the electric fence is in place.

There are insulated handles for removing / reconnecting the wires.

As soon as the wires are separated the handles and wire are no longer live.

When re-connecting the hooks MUST be attached to the wires , NOT the plastic insulators.

It is a public footpath of course, and as such the public will also have to pass through the fence.

This is perfectly legal, as long as signs are displayed. We should however try and ensure that the fence is put back and working properly if we are around, and when we leave.

Mowing:-

The mowing team have got the field into great flying condition. (Well done lads)

We have taken the decision to try and continue doing our own mowing for now, and anyone who fancies a bit of healthy exercise and would like to help, can join the mowing What Sapp group. We do have a couple of mowers, but any additional ones would help speed up the process.

CAA and Operator-ID’s

 

I would like to remind everyone that to fly “Legally" all members must have and display a CAA Operator ID on all of their flying models. Below is a quote from Andy Symons of the BMFA.

“From an insurance perspective, cover can only be fully assured for ‘lawful activities’ and if a member does not comply (if required by law) then they will be operating unlawfully, and their insurance cover could be in question in the event of a claim.  Your code of flying states  ‘It is a club requirement that you are registered with the CAA for DMARES (Drone, Model Aircraft Registration and Education Scheme).’ In my view any member knowingly operating unlawfully is in breach of your club requirements, setting himself outside the insurance and is committing at the very least misconduct and potentially gross misconduct and something that the club should use its disciplinary procedures to deal with. “

Below is Clause 11 from the Bromsgrove Flying Club Constitution..

All members are expected to co-operate in the smooth running of the Club and to fully comply with the Club Code of Flying. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action by the Club which may lead to dismissal.

PLEASE ensure that you have renewed with the CAA and that you display your CAA Number on your flying aircraft.. Stay legal... We will be checking.

Noise and Flying:

Please ensure that your planes are in good condition, and if they sound noisy, please don’t fly them.

We do not want to hear about noisy planes from our neighbours.

Do not stray too far away. No more than the 3rd hedge, in front of the flight line.

No more Bubbles or Pods!

From May 17th we just need a Who, date and times for the track and trace group. We don’t need your bubble or pod.

The Task Force

The task force is busy following up some hot leads, and we hope to have some news soon..


See you at the ADF.. We are long overdue a burger and fly..

Alan Brown & The Committee

April 2021 Newsletter

No Newsletter

March 2021 Newsletter

No Newsletter

February 2021 Newsletter

No Newsletter

January 2021 Newsletter

Happy New Year (and Lockdown)

I’m happy to report that we have started the New Year with about 50 members.  (We may still pick up the odd renewal)
The bad news is that due to the lockdown, and closing of sports clubs, we cannot fly at the patch until further notice. Lets hope that the lockdown does not last too long… 

Article 16 – We all need to sign onto the BMFA and tick that we have read and understood  Article 16…. (see Article 16 below)

A précis of what this means for us is as follows…
1.         For all those who have at least an ‘A’ test before the 1st Jan 2021, you just need to log onto the BMFA website and tick that you have read and understood article 16.
Please read the full Article 16 below and then go to the BMFA website and tick the box.  (Those without internet access please contact Ricardo, who may be able do this for you)

2.         You will also need to renew your CAA membership before 21st February 2021…  If renewing via the BMFA go to My Profile  and click RENEW

3. Anyone taking their ‘A’ or ‘B’ test (or any new qualification) from 01.01.2021 onwards will also have to take the CAA Competency Test.  (The pass mark is 30 correct out of 40 questions) 

Anyone interested, can read up here…   https://rcc.bmfa.uk/rcc 

4. Those already having an ‘A’ test do not need a Flyer ID. These are given when passing the competency test either via the BMFA or direct through the CAA. The flyer ID is free and will last for 5 years, and then need to be re-taken. 

5. Your Operator ID (given to you when you renew with the CAA) costs £9 per annum, and needs to be displayed on every model you fly in a place that does not require tools to be seen.  Inside the battery hatch for example.

CAA Article 16  in full is below….

CAA Article 16 Authorisation

A guide to model aircraft & drone flying after December 31st, 2020 for BMFA members.

Why are the regulations changing?

The UK adopted the EU regulations for model flying in 2019 and these will come into effect on December 31st, 2020.  This is the same day that we exit from the EU, but regulations in place at the point of departure will be transferred directly into UK law.

Some requirements of the EU regulations were already in place (such as a height limits, Operator Registration and Competency requirements) following changes to the Air Navigation Order set out in 2018, but the EU regulations introduce further changes.  Full details of the regulations for the operation of unmanned aircraft (which includes model aircraft) can be found in CAP 722.

Given the excellent safety record established by model flyers throughout Europe, the EU agreed that model flying conducted within the framework of Associations like the BMFA should be subject to more flexible regulation to allow us to continue largely ‘as we do today’.  The mechanism to facilitate this is referred to as an ‘Article 16 Authorisation’ (within the ‘Specific Category’) and this document provides a guide to how the Authorisation we have negotiated with the CAA applies to our members with effect from December 31st, 2020.

The new regulations allow for alternative sets of rules to be applied to unmanned aircraft. The 'Open Category' rules set out in CAP722 can be used by anyone in the UK, regardless of whether they are members of any club or association and, amongst other things, include a ban on flying above 400ft. The Open Category requirements will not apply to BMFA members flying in accordance with the terms and conditions of our Article 16 Authorisation.

Model aircraft below 250g which are operated in accordance with our Authorisation are subject to the terms and conditions of the Authorisation.  However, in most circumstances they may also be operated within the Open Category instead and so be flown in accordance with the basic requirements outlined in CAP 722 for an aircraft of less than 250g without a camera (i.e. no registration, competency or age requirements but operation limited to less than 400ft).

This guide explains the meaning of the Article 16 authorisation that the CAA has granted to the BMFA.

Section A - General Conditions of our Article 16 Authorisation

1. What type of unmanned aircraft operations does our Authorisation apply to:

Our Authorisation covers all existing activities including radio-controlled aircraft of all types (including helicopters and multirotor drones), free flight aircraft and physically constrained aircraft (control line and round the pole) up to a Maximum Take Off Mass (MTOM)** of 25Kg.

Aircraft with an MTOM of more than 25Kg will be subject to a separate Authorisation to be held by the Large Model Association (which will replace their over 20Kg scheme).

Aircraft with an MTOM of less than 250g operated in a manner that uses the privileges within this authorisation (for example, flown above 400ft), are subject to the limitations and conditions described throughout this authorisation.  However, in many circumstances they may be easily operated within the Open Category requirements (for an unmanned aircraft with a MTOM less than 250g) as the requirements are not particularly restrictive for these very light aircraft.

The Authorisation does not apply to rockets (which were not included within the EU regulations) and it does not apply to any indoor operations either, as none of the rules apply to unmanned aircraft flown inside buildings.

** Note:  For all practical purposes the Maximum Take Off Mass or MTOM is the weight of your aircraft when it first becomes airborne on each flight. The MTOM now includes everything, including fuel, which is why the 7kg has gone up to 7.5kg and 20kg to 25kg.

1.1. You must operate your aircraft within visual line of sight.
The Authorisation retains the long standing requirement for the remote pilot to maintain direct, unaided visual contact with their aircraft sufficient to monitor its flight path in relation to other aircraft, persons, vehicles, vessels and structures for the purpose of avoiding collisions, unless the aircraft is being flown in accordance with the specific conditions detailed in the ‘First Person View’ section.

1.2. The purpose of the flight must be Sport, Recreation, Education or Demonstration.
The terms of our Authorisation do not cover any type of commercial operation.

2. Minimum Age
The introduction of Operator Registration imposed a minimum age of 18 on Operators and this does not change.  Lower age limits apply to ‘Remote Pilots’ to allow flying by pilots under 18. When models are flown by adults the Operator and Remote Pilot are usually the same person, and this is recognised in the Authorisation.

The minimum age for a remote pilot to fly unsupervised within the full terms of our Authorisation is 10.  There is no minimum age for a remote pilot operating under the direct supervision of another remote pilot (age 14 or over) provided both have the required evidence of competency. In addition, there must be an adult Operator (when an Operator is mandatory) who complies with the requirements described in section 4.2 below.

There is no minimum age for flying control line or round the pole aircraft.

3. Safety Accountability
It remains the case that the remote pilot is directly responsible for the safe operation of their aircraft and should only fly if reasonably satisfied that the flight can be safely made

4. Operator Requirements

4.1 Operator Registration
The existing requirements for Operator registration remain in place (although now extend to capture operators of control line/round-the-pole aircraft weighing more than 1Kg). It is a legal requirement that anyone operating an unmanned aircraft outdoors be registered as an Operator with the CAA unless:

  • the aircraft weighs 250g or less and is not fitted with a camera; or
  • the aircraft is a control line or round-the-pole (tethered) aircraft that weighs 1Kg or less; or
  • the aircraft is a 'toy' as defined in the EU Regulations (i.e. a product intended to be played with by children under 14, excluding any product with a combustion engine).

There is no requirement to register as an Operator if you only operate model aircraft indoors.

The BMFA has retained the facility for members to obtain their CAA Operator registration via the BMFA GoMembership system.

The Operator I.D. number must be clearly displayed on the aircraft or within a compartment that can be easily accessed without the use of a tool.

4.2 Operator Responsibilities
Our Authorisation includes a requirement for Operators to comply with the following requirements (largely common sense):

  • Ensure the remote pilot is in possession of the relevant remote pilot competence requirements
  • Ensure that the model aircraft is sufficiently maintained, and that any repairs carried out to it are satisfactorily made, such that it is in a safe condition to be flown;
  • Ensure that the remote pilot is aware of the limitations and conditions of this authorisation;
  • Ensure that the remote pilot is aware of the rules and procedures of their relevant association;
  • Ensure that any necessary additional permissions or authorisations are obtained for any specific flight;
  • Ensure the remote pilot is aware of any relevant airspace limitations;

The CAA acknowledges that in many instances, the operator and the remote pilot will be the same person. In such cases, this person must discharge the responsibilities of both the remote pilot (see Section 6), and the UAS Operator.

5. Remote Pilot Requirements

5.1 Remote Pilot Competence
The existing requirements for Remote Pilot Competence remain in place.  It is a legal requirement to have evidence that you are competent to operate your aircraft for anyone who is operating in accordance with our Authorisation except for those who:

  • only operate aircraft (without a camera) with an MTOM of less than 250g,
  • only operate indoors or only operate a control line or round the pole aircraft; (but operators of control line and round the pole aircraft with an MTOM exceeding 1Kg must now register as Operators).

Acceptable evidence of competency can be achieved by passing one of the CAA recognised online tests (such as the CAA DMARES test or the BMFA Registration Competency Certificate)**.

Members with an existing BMFA Achievement obtained prior to 31/12/2020 (including the BMFA Registration Competency Certificate) will be considered to have acceptable evidence of competency.

From 1st January 2021, it will be a requirement for anyone taking a new BMFA Achievement to show proof of either a valid BMFA Registration Competency Certificate (RCC)  or a valid CAA Flyer ID. Any candidate who shows proof of a valid RCC obtained after 31/12/2020 will be exempt from answering the mandatory questions during the test.

An additional requirement is that members will have to confirm that they have read and understood the terms of our Authorisation if they wish to operate within it and this will be built into the GoMembership system.

5.2 Remote Pilot Responsibilities
It is a condition of our Authorisation that Remote Pilots comply with the following requirements (largely common sense):

  • Be fit to fly. Don’t fly under the influence of psychoactive substances or alcohol or when unfit to fly (e.g. due to injury, fatigue, medication, sickness or other causes)
  • Have the appropriate competency (and evidence of it such as your membership card/document).
  • Be familiar with manufacturer’s instructions for your aircraft, if applicable.

Before flying, it is a requirement to:

  • Make sure there are no relevant airspace restrictions in place where you intend to fly.
  • Ensure that the operating environment is compatible with the limitations and conditions set out within this Authorisation.
  • Ensure that your aircraft is in a safe condition to complete the flight safely.
  • Ensure that any relevant information about the operation has been made available to the relevant air traffic service (ATS) unit, other airspace users and relevant stakeholders, when required.

During the flight, it is a requirement that you:

  • Comply with the limitations and conditions set out within this authorisation;
  • Avoid any risk of collision with any manned aircraft and discontinue a flight when it may endanger other aircraft, people, animals, environment or property;
  • Comply with any applicable airspace restrictions;
  • Comply with the rules and procedures of your Association and/or Club;
  • Do not fly close to or inside areas where an emergency response effort is ongoing unless you have permission to do so from the responsible emergency response services.

** Note. The BMFA Registration Competency Certificate test will ask you questions relevant to the terms and conditions of the BMFA model flying Authorisation. In contrast the CAA DMARES test will ask you questions about the general rules in CAP 722 that do not apply when flying in accordance with the Authorisation. Whilst passing either test is legally acceptable, it is recommended that members intending to use the Authorisation take the BMFA test, which is directly relevant to their flying activities.

6. Where can I fly?
Essentially, wherever you fly now.

The Authorisation is valid throughout the UK at:

  • Any established model flying club site. Clubs operating in a ‘built up area’ (This means an area substantially used for industrial, recreational, commercial or residential purposes) must conduct a risk assessment and have suitable mitigations in place within their ‘Field Safety Rules’.  The BMFA can assist with this.
  • Any other suitable site which is not a ‘built-up area’.
  • Within a ‘built up area’ if the flying site is within an area which is only used substantially for recreational purposes (for example playing fields or sports pitches) and a risk assessment has been carried out. Again, the BMFA can assist with this.

7. How high can I fly?
The new regulations limit the operation of all unmanned aircraft to 400ft above the surface.  However, our Authorisation permits members to fly above 400ft, subject to:

  • The model aircraft is not a multi-rotor.
  • The model aircraft is not automated. (This means a model aircraft with autonomous or automatic flight capability. This does not include systems which are fitted for flight stabilisation purposes or flight termination purposes, such as free-flight termination devices).
  • The model aircraft in not operating with the Flight Restriction Zone of an aerodrome, other than with the written permission/agreement with the aerodrome.
  • The model aircraft remains within visual line of sight of the remote pilot.
  • The model aircraft has a MTOM below 7.5Kg.
  • Model gliders with a MTOM below 14Kg may be flown at a height of 400ft above the remote pilot (which if flying from a slope permits operation at heights exceeding 400ft from the surface beneath the glider).

When operating at heights which may exceed 400ft, it is essential that members maintain a good look out for manned aircraft.  If a manned aircraft appears in the vicinity, their model aircraft should be brought down to under 400ft as quickly as is safely practicable.

8. Separation Distances from uninvolved persons
The stipulation of separation distances from uninvolved persons is a new requirement (the default distance within the EU regulations for most of our operations being 50m), but we have reached a compromise agreement with the CAA to ensure that the terms of our Authorisation are appropriate for our established operations.

There are no minimum separation distances for model aircraft with an MTOM under 250g.

8.1 Model Aircraft with an MTOM between 250g and 7.5Kg
Our Authorisation stipulates that model aircraft (other than free flight aircraft) between 250g and 7.5Kg cannot be operated:

  • Within a horizontal distance of 30m of assemblies of people. (Assemblies of people are gatherings where persons are unable to move away due to the density of the people present).
  • Within 30m of any uninvolved person. (Uninvolved Persons are those who are not participating in the UAS operation or who are not aware of the instructions and safety precautions given by the UAS operator). This distance may be reduced to 15m for take-off and landing subject to adequate local mitigations to protect uninvolved persons and the completion of a risk assessment.

8.2 Model Aircraft with an MTOM between 7.5Kg and 25Kg
Our Authorisation stipulates that model aircraft with an MTOM between 7.5Kg and 25Kg cannot be operated:

  • Within a horizontal distance of 50m of assemblies of people. (Assemblies of people are gatherings where persons are unable to move away due to the density of the people present). This distance may be reduced to 30m for take-off and landing subject to adequate local mitigations to protect uninvolved persons and completion of a risk assessment.
  • Within 30m of any uninvolved person. (Uninvolved Persons are those who are not participating in the UAS operation or who are not aware of the instructions and safety precautions given by the UAS operator).

9. Dropping of Articles
The new regulations prohibit the dropping of any materials from a model aircraft, but our Authorisation exempts us from this requirement subject to the following condition - The remote pilot must not cause or permit any article or animal to be dropped from an unmanned aircraft so as to endanger persons or property.

10. Provisions for ‘trial flights’
Our Authorisation permits the continuance of ‘trial flights’ for non-members.

The non-member may operate the controls of the model aircraft and does not need to comply with the competency requirements whilst under the direct supervision of a member.

The member supervising the flight must be registered as an Operator and display their Operator I.D. on the aircraft.

11. Provisions for Overseas Visitors/Competitors
Overseas visitors/competitors are permitted to operate within the terms of our Authorisation provided that they hold a temporary membership of the BMFA and agree to comply with the terms of the Authorisation (including the remote pilot competency requirements).

Overseas visitors/competitors must also carry the Operator I.D. number of a UK ‘Host’ on their aircraft.

12. Provisions for Model Flying Displays
Our Authorisation permits any operator/remote pilot to operate a model aircraft as part of a flying display within the terms set out in the Authorisation plus CAP 403 and CAP 658.

If the flying display height will exceed 400ft, it must be notified to other airspace users through the use of a NOTAM.

If the flying display requires operations which fall outside of our Authorisation (such as a requirement to operate aircraft with a MTOM exceeding 7.5Kg above 400ft), then a separate Authorisation and a specific Model Aircraft Display Authorisation must be obtained directly from the CAA.

13. Reporting Requirements
Our Authorisation includes the requirement to report certain accidents, serious incidents and other occurrences.  This is an existing requirement and is referred to in the current BMFA Members Handbook (Section 21) and CAP 658 (Chapter 13).  However, the CAA are wanting to reinforce the requirements (full details can be found in CAP 722).

Therefore, it is a condition of our Authorisation that correct reporting to the AAIB and the CAA must be carried out. For further details see https://rcc.bmfa.uk/reporting

13.1 AAIB Reporting Requirements
The following must be reported to the AAIB if they involve a model aircraft and result in a fatality or serious injury:

  • Accidents
  • Serious Incidents

This requirement differs from the requirements outlined in CAP 722 but reflect the current agreement in place between the model flying community and the AAIB.

13.2 CAA Reporting Requirements
The following must be reported to the CAA:

  • Occurrences which involve any of the following:
    • Fatality
    • Serious Injury
    • Manned aircraft

The following must be reported to the CAA, as a specific condition of this authorisation:

  • Serious Incidents or Other Occurrences which involve any of the following:
    • Manned aircraft
    • Operating above 400ft
    • Operating less than 50m from uninvolved people
  • Instances where aircraft have flown beyond visual line of site.

Section B - Aircraft Specific Conditions of our Article 16 Authorisation

Our Article 16 Authorisation includes some provisions for specific types of model flying operations.  Some of these directly replace existing permissions/exemptions, such as the operation of control line aircraft within a Flight Restriction Zone and the operation of First Person View aircraft.

1. Physically Constrained unmanned aircraft
Our Authorisation defines a physically constrained aircraft as a model aircraft that:

  • is flying within a closed building or other physical construction forming a safely enclosed area; or
  • is a control-line model aircraft; or
  • is a round-the-pole aircraft.

1.1. Operation with an aerodrome Flight Restriction Zone (FRZ)
Permission is not required to operate a control line/round the pole model aircraft within an FRZ, provided that:

  • The length of the tether line is less than 25m
  • The flight does not take place within the Runway Protection Zone
  • The MTOM is less than 7.5Kg
  • The flight does not take place over or within the boundary of the protected aerodrome, unless permission has been obtained (in accordance with Article 94A of the ANO).

1.2.  Exemption of some control line and round-the-pole model aircraft from the EU regulations.
Control line/round the pole model aircraft are exempted from all of the requirements of the EU regulations including Operator Registration and Remote Pilot Competency, provided that:

  • The length of the tether line(s) does not exceed 25m
  • The MTOM is less than 1Kg
  • The aircraft is not capable of vertical take-off/landing or hovering (such as helicopters or multi rotors).

In addition, our Authorisation exempts Remote Pilots of control line/round the pole aircraft from the competency requirements altogether (even if the MTOM exceeds 1Kg) though they will be still be required to register as an Operator.

2. Free Flight Model Aircraft
Our Authorisation defines a free flight model aircraft as follows:

A free flight model aircraft cannot be remotely piloted and does not have software or systems for autonomous control of the flight path. A flight termination device may be fitted. The aircraft trim is adjusted prior to flight. The aircraft is trimmed (and fuelled if applicable) with the intent that it will follow a substantially circular path relative to the air and ultimately glide to a low velocity landing. A free-flight unmanned aircraft will drift relative to the user depending upon the speed and direction of the wind. The person in charge of the free-flight unmanned aircraft is deemed to be the remote pilot for the purposes of this authorisation.

Some specific requirements for free flight have been included within our Authorisation.  Most of these requirements are not new and generally reflect the requirements of the existing law (and how it should have been being applied already):

  • Prior to launching their aircraft, the remote pilot should take into account the expected performance of the aircraft, the weather conditions and the availability of any flight termination device and must be reasonably satisfied that the expected flight path will not infringe an FRZ (unless prior permission has been obtained) or other airspace restriction.
  • The operation of a free flight model aircraft must only be carried out within the limits of our Authorisation (or alternatively within the requirements of the Open Category, especially for those aircraft with an MTOM of less than 250g).
  • A free flight model should not be deliberately flown beyond visual line of sight.

A free flight model aircraft must only be launched:

  • From an area free from uninvolved persons (Uninvolved persons are those who are not participating in the UAS operation or who are not aware of the instructions and safety precautions given by the UAS operator).
  • When the remote pilot has identified an area (the ‘flight volume’) within which they believe the aircraft will remain.
  • When the remote pilot is reasonably satisfied that the aircraft will remain within the flight volume.
  • When the remote pilot is reasonably satisfied at the point of launch that no uninvolved persons will enter the flight volume and be endangered.

Within the terms of out Authorisation, the Operator/Remote Pilot of any free flight aircraft with an MTOM of less than 250g which is likely to operate at a height above 400ft, must be registered as an Operator and have evidence of Competency (such as passing the BMFA online test).

3. First Person View (FPV) Model Aircraft
Our Authorisation defines first person view aircraft as follows: In First Person View operations the remote pilot flies the aircraft using images provided by cameras aboard the aircraft. When flying FPV the remote pilot cannot monitor the flight path in relation to other aircraft, persons, vehicles, vessels and structures for the purpose of avoiding collisions to the same extent as a remote pilot maintaining external direct, unaided visual contact with the aircraft.

Our Authorisation incorporates the terms of our existing FPV exemption, but also includes specific provision for FPV ‘drone racing’ which the BMFA had been discussing with the CAA for some time.

3.1 FPV Drone Racing
A model aircraft may be flown by a remote pilot using first person view subject to the terms of our Authorisation and provided that the aircraft is operated:

  • Within a sterile area – meaning a cordoned off, closed area that uninvolved persons are excluded from. (Uninvolved persons are those who are not participating in the UAS operation or who are not aware of the instructions and safety precautions given by the UAS operator).
  • The aircraft is not flown in excess of 160ft (50m) above the surface.
  • In accordance with procedures set out for the purpose of the event and in accordance with the instructions of the race director or other nominated person, including provision of a ‘terminate race and land immediately instruction.
  • Any observers are suitably briefed and aware of their responsibilities, including the monitoring of people or aircraft entering the sterile area.

Individual remote pilots do not require their own ‘competent’ observer when operating under this provision.

3.2 General FPV Flying

A model aircraft may be flown by a remote pilot using first person view subject to the terms of our Authorisation and provided that:

  • The remote pilot is accompanied by a competent observer who maintains direct unaided visual contact with the unmanned aircraft sufficient to monitor its flight path in relation to other aircraft, persons, vehicles, vessels and structures for the purpose of avoiding collisions and advises the remote pilot accordingly.
  • The MTOM of the aircraft does not exceed 3.5Kg.
  • The aircraft is only operated in the areas defined in the ‘Where can I fly’ section (6) above.
  • The aircraft is only operated in accordance with the ‘Separation Distances from Uninvolved Persons’ section (8) above. (Uninvolved persons are those who are not participating in the UAS operation or who are not aware of the instructions and safety precautions given by the UAS operator).

And the aircraft is not flown:

  • Within an aerodrome FRZ, unless appropriate permission has been obtained.
  • At a height of more than 1000ft above the surface, unless it is a rotorcraft with more than 1 lift generating rotor or propeller in which case the height shall not exceed 400ft above the surface.
  • Over or within 150m of any assemblies of people (Assemblies of people are gatherings where persons are unable to move away due to the density of the people present).
  • Within 50m of any vessel, vehicle or structure which is not under the control of the remote pilot.

Phew...  Thats a lot of reading, but we need to understand the law ...

Stay safe and well people.... See you all on the other side.

Alan Brown & The Committee