Free Flight flying and Radio Assisted Free Flight models are restricted to:

500g (18oz) weight limit and a capacity of 0.8cc or 100W.

All models over 250g must carry a current CAA operator number.

The only radio models in the free flight area should be qualifying radio assist models. All other radio-controlled models should be on the RC flight line. Radio Assisted Free Flight models to follow the BMFA Guidelines. There is a concession for light electric powered models where speed control is allowed along with two further channels, however they must not exceed the 250g weight limit.

All modellers flying in the free flight area must show a valid BMFA membership card to a Marshall on the airfield access gate, where upon a wrist band will be issued before starting any flying for the first time during the weekend. This proves eligibility to fly on the field. Airfield access is normally via the gate close to the control tower. For Radio Assisted free flight all transmitters will be checked and “spotted” at the SAM 35 control caravan or tent close to the control tower.

For any nonflying personnel, partners, children or public wishing to join the flying on the field, they will also require a wrist band and be issued with a summary of the rules to ensure they are aware of the potential dangers of model aircraft models to themselves.

Wrist bands are valid for the weekend and must be worn on the field at all times.

You should carry your BMFA card with you onto the field as it may be checked.

There are a number of Marshalls on duty, please respect their decisions. Safe flying is the responsibility of all of us.

Radio Assisted Free Flight Guidelines

1. Models must be free flight in original design and concept with radio fitted solely to assist in trimming and recovery. Models must be operated in a ‘free flight’ manner with a clear climb to height followed by a glide phase.

2. Radio assist is limited to rudder plus one other function (which must be either elevator or throttle). Additional channels may be used, but only as a motor cut off and/or to activate a dethermalizer.

3. Only 2.4GHz radios are to be used in the free flight area. No other frequencies are allowed. All transmitters must be legal and carry a CE mark.

4. Only fly on sites that are clear with adequate open space in compliance with any local rules or conditions and with due consideration for other people and property.

5. When radio assisted free flight is taking place on a multi-use site, it is important that one person is nominated to co-ordinate the activity and liaise with other site users.

Note: Where a group of flyers wish to fly assisted free flight, one would expect their flight line to be adjacent to the free flight line in all cases.