Useful Links for New Pilots at BCMA

Welcome, new pilots, to the BCMA family! To help you get started, we've compiled a list of useful links that will guide you through essential resources for your piloting journey.

RealFlight RC Flight Simulator:
https://www.realflight.com/shop-all-realflight/

AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics)

https://join.modelaircraft.org/enroll/?gad_campaignid=21869009730

The first requirement to fly at BMCA, or any RC club is to join the The Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA). This is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting model aviation as a sport and recreational activity. It provides essential benefits such as liability insurance for pilots, access to a vibrant community for shared learning and events, and advocacy for model aircraft pilot rights with regulatory bodies. All these contribute to a safe and enjoyable environment for the hobby.

FAA Requrements:

3 Essential FAA Requirements for RC Club Membership & Flying at BMCA

1. Register Drone ID (UAS Registration):

https://faadronezone-access.faa.gov/#/

1. • What it is: All unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), including RC planes and drones, weighing 0.55 pounds (250 grams) or more must be registered with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This assigns a unique registration number (Drone ID) to you as the owner.

   • Why it's required for clubs: Club fields operate under specific FAA guidelines. Your registration demonstrates accountability and ensures you are a recognized operator. This ID must typically be marked on your aircraft.

2. TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test):

https://trust.modelaircraft.org/

2. • What it is: The TRUST is a free, online knowledge test developed by the FAA to ensure recreational flyers understand basic safety guidelines and airspace rules. It covers topics like operating safely, respecting other airspace users, and understanding airspace restrictions.

   • Why it's required for clubs: Passing the TRUST shows that you possess the fundamental knowledge to operate your RC aircraft responsibly and safely within club rules and FAA regulations, which is paramount for everyone's safety at the flying field. You must carry proof of completion.

3. NOTAM Check (Notice to Airmen / Airspace Check):

https://www.faa.gov/uas/getting_started/b4ufly

3. • What it is: Before every flight, recreational pilots are responsible for checking for any temporary flight restrictions (TFRs), airspace warnings, or other notices (NOTAMs) that might affect their intended flying area. Tools like the FAA's B4UFLY app or other authorized services can help with this.

   • Why it's required for clubs: Even at designated RC fields, airspace can be dynamic. A NOTAM check ensures you're aware of any unexpected changes (e.g., military operations, special events) that could impact safe flying. This proactive check is crucial for preventing conflicts and maintaining the club's good standing with aviation authorities.

We recomendhttps://airaware.aloft.ai/ via web browser, or via app https://www.aloft.ai/download/

Note: Flying at other locations may require additional requirements. Since our field is a designated FRIA location, Remote ID transponders are not required for UAS over 250 grams. Due to our proximity to Teterboro Airport, normally LAANC authorization would be required, but we have an agreement with the airport, so we are exempt. 

Here are some instructions from Darryl on registering online and getting your TRUST certificate.  https://sites.google.com/view/hvfrcclub/links/faa-registration (You only need to generate one Drone ID and write it in all your models)

Hackensack Valley Flyers Club application to fly at BMCA:

https://sites.google.com/view/hvfrcclub/contact-us/join

Note, your AMA number and FAA code are required to apply. You will need to fill out an application form along with a check or money order to “Hackensack Valley Flyers” for $50 for membership for the calendar year. 

RC Plane, Radio, Simulator Combo:

https://www.horizonhobby.com/product/aeroscout-s-2-1.1m-and-realflight-trainer-success-program-ultimate-combo/HBZ380001SC.html

AeroScout S 2 1.1m is the most recommended RC trainer also capable of aerobatics and advanced flying. This is the RealFlight Trainer Success Program Ultimate Combo. We have several instructors that can help you set up, buddy box and eventually fly by yourself. 

Who is flying at BMCA -  WhatsApp Group

https://chat.whatsapp.com/DeeDWoHFSFk73I6bjs876L

BCMA MEMBERS RC GROUP - Facebook Group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/560641474109261