AMA Introductory Pilot Program
Applies to all categories of model flying
This program is not intended to alter or replace any training program offered by AMA chartered clubs for their AMA members. Instead, this program is designed to introduce the non-AMA member to aeromodeling while providing liability insurance coverage to the non-AMA member and the chartered club. Club participation in the AMA Introductory Pilot program (IP) is encouraged but not required.
This program affords liability insurance protection for the non-AMA member as long as he or she is flying under the direct (one-on-one) supervision of a club-designated Introductory Pilot Mentor (IPM). The IPM must be a current AMA member, and his or her AMA membership card will display the “Intro Pilot” designation.
The program allows for a learning period of up to 90 consecutive days, starting the day of the first flying session. If you are using the non-AMA members equipment, the IPM should carefully check the model and controls before use. It goes without saying, that high performance models are not appropriate for training. Buddy-box use is recommended, but not required.
Triad Aeromodeler's AMA Intro Pilot Trainers
- Mark Fansler
- Doc Green
Are you a club member wanting to introduce your hobby to a non-AMA member? The Introductory Pilot Program was created to allow club members the opportunity to invite someone that may have an interest in aeromodeling to the club flying site. The non-AMA member may fly under the direct supervision of a club-designated Introductory Pilot Instructor, and receive AMA's liability insurance for a period of 90 days. Read on to learn more about how you can participate in this exciting new program!
Duties of the AMA Intro Pilot Instructor
1. Once you’ve been designated as one of your club’s Intro Pilot Mentors, you need to have a supply of the Student Pilot Registration Form #2. You should also have a supply of the “Welcome to Aeromodeling” package provided by AMA. These forms can be requested from AMA HQ once you have been designated as one of your club's Intro Pilot Mentors. 2. Have your student fill out the Student Pilot Registration Form #2. 3. Send the Registration Form to AMA HQ. The forms can be submitted online here; faxed to (765) 286-3303; emailed to intropilot@modelaircraft.org; or mailed to AMA HQ. It’s important for the Student Registration Form to be submitted to AMA HQ within 48 hours of the student’s first flight. 4. Give each student copies of the official AMA Introductory Pilot Program outlining its procedures and the AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code. 5. Proceed as usual with your program of flight instruction. The student is covered under the AMA’s liability insurance policy, as long as he/she is flying at the club site under your direct, one-on-one supervision, for a period of 90 days of the student’s first flight. 6. If there is an incident that may involve a claim on the AMA’s insurance policy, it is the responsibility of the Intro Pilot Instructor and/or club officers to make a telephone report to AMA HQ by the close of business the following business day. A follow up, written report is also required. Read the full Introductory Pilot Program description HERE For questions about the program, contact AMA Headquarters at 765-287-1256 Ext. 291, or email intropilot@modelaircraft.org
To apply:
- Register on the AMA website HERE. This form may only be completed by a club officer, and you must login to the modelaircraft.org website before it will allow you to view the form.
- The Intro Pilot Instructor designees must be a current member of the AMA and should be experienced instructors.
- Once approved, the Intro Pilot Instructor will receive a new AMA card with their new designation.