Pilot Proficiency Program

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Flown quite a bit and are getting comfortable taking off and landing? Think it's time for you to venture out on your own. Congratulations, it's time to solo!! Are you ready? Peoria RC Modelers has a "Pilot Proficiency Program" to insure you are ready for this next step. After passing, you are welcome to fly solo. Below are questions you will be asked by our safety officer and after demonstrating your ability to perform some basic maneuvers, you're on  your way!
New? Not a flyer? Stop by the field or contact us.

PLEASE Review this before attempting the Pilot Proficiency Program

- Safety and Etiquette  Questions
- Peoria R/C Flight Proficiency Program; Solo Flyer


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Safety and Etiquette Questions

When starting the airplane, what direction should it be pointed?
Always away from the spectators (towards the east).

Who is allowed on the flight line?
Only pilots, spotters and visitors on supervised flight line tours.

Describe our frequency control.
The pilots AMA card  must be clipped to the frequency board and the frequency pin attached to the transmitter.
It is advised to verbally ask all fliers what frequency they are using to make sure they have, in fact, remember to remove their correct pin.

Can a pilot fly without an AMA card?
No. Peoria RC Modelers is a AMA Chapter 313 Sanctioned field. For AMA information, Click here.

Can a pilot fly without the frequency pin?
No. Your frequency pin must be removed before starting your aircraft and replaced after flying for others to use. This is very important.

Can a pilot fly alone without a solo certificate?
 
No. Pilot must pass the PPP and after may fly at their own discretion.

Describe the spectator area.
Behind the orange fence. 

Are alcoholic beverages allowed?
No.

What is expected of spectators?
Unless being used as a spotter or on supervised flight line tours, staying behind the orange fence is required. 
Please k
eep distractions to a minimum and children must be supervised at all times by a parent.

Describe the “Pit” area.
The area between the pilot blocks and the road (in front of the orange fence).

When flying, where should the pilot stand?
On or between the pilot blocks. 

When are vehicles allowed to park on the road between the spectator area and the pit?
Only when loading and unloading aircraft. Vehicles must be parked in the designated parking area at all times.

In what direction do you take off and land?
Into the wind. 

Describe the absolute flight boundaries.
Absolutely no flying behind the pilot blocks (West).
Absolutely no flying beyond the tree line (East).
Absolutely no flying over the road (North).
Absolutely no flying over the road (South).

What pattern direction should be flown with a south wind?
Left hand or counter-clockwise. 

What pattern direction should be flown with a north wind?
Right hand or clockwise.

After flight, can the airplane be taxied into the pits?
No. Shut down the airplane at the pilot blocks and roll or carry it to the pit area. This must be adhered to at all times.

Describe the procedure for taking off while other pilots are flying.
Stop airplane at pilot block and check to see that no one is taking off or landing.  When clear, announce “taking off”. 

Describe procedure for landing while other pilots are flying
Announce intentions to land, "coming in" so that other pilots are aware and can clear the area. 

Describe procedure for retrieving an airplane on the runway while others pilots are flying.
Check to see that no one is taking off or landing and then announce “on the field.” When done, announce "off the field."

What is expected of pilots flying while someone is "on the field."
Maintain a safe distance and altitude until the person is clear of the field.

Where should engines be “test run” for prolonged periods.
At either the peripheral north and south ends of the pit. 

Should maneuvers ever be conducted towards the spectator area (west)?
No.  All flight maneuvers should be conducted parallel (north & south) or away (east) from the spectator area. 

How long should a pilot continue flying?
The flight duration is determined by the fuel capacity, but a pilot should check with other pilots before conducting continuous flights (one after the other).  Allow other pilots that are uncomfortable with multiple flyers or want to practice aerobatic maneuvers a reasonable time to fly alone. 

Are there special considerations for a new airplane test flight?
Yes.  All other flyers should be grounded during a new airplane test flight. 

Where should one stand when observing a running airplane?
Behind the propeller and also never in line with the propeller.

What special precaution should be taken when fueling.
Keep overflow from getting on grass. When fueling with gasoline, always have a fire extinguisher handy.

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Peoria R/C Flight Proficiency Program; Solo Flyer

Solo Flyer
(Mandatory)
The candidate must demonstrate on at least one of (2) successive attempts, on the examination period, his/her ability to complete the five basic flight maneuvers listed below with a minimum score of 42.  If the flyer passes the first attempt, the second trial is not necessary.

Procedures

Grading

 

0-10

0-10

Safety & Etiquette.  5 oral questions (2 pts. Each)

 

 

Take off unassisted.  Straight flight out.

 

 

Fly straight and level and maintain altitude across field.

 

 

Execute horizontal figure-8 at center of field while maintaining altitude.

 

 

Execute a 360 degree left or right landing pattern, direction determined by the wind.

 

 

Land within the confines of the mowed field.

 

 

TOTAL

 

 

 RECOMMENDATIONS
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Club Certified Examiner:
_____________________________________

Candidate:
_____________________________________

AMA Number:
_____________________________________

Date: _________________
                       
            Approved: __________________  (Safety Officer)

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