For many years the AMA has offered pilots resources in order to help secure and maintain flying sites.  Many aspects of flying site acquisition are covered in the AMA documents.  IRCHA hopes to contribute documentation to the AMA that may offer helicopter specific guidance in the near future. 

When looking to establish a new club it is important to have a core group of eager volunteers.  It will take many hours of hard work and will involve planning, organization, meetings and possibly even payment of funds to secure a new flying site.  The new club must also actively complete new club charter applications and prepare them for submission to AMA.  It is of the utmost importance  that a new club follow the guidelines set forth by AMA as they will provide the proper recommendations for establishing a safe flying site.  Below you will find the AMA link for a new club charter application and the AMA link for finding a club in your area:

http://www.modelaircraft.org/PDF-files/clubkit.pdf

http://www.modelaircraft.org/clubsearch.aspx

Helicopter pilots must understand that many clubs have not yet experienced the surge in new helicopter pilots at their field.  Many older club members may still remember helicopters from days long ago when the mechanics and electronics are not as reliable as they are now.  It is up to each of us to take the time to help educate people outside of our segment on the advances that have been made in helicopter design and capability.  As difficult as it may be for some, you may even need to fly the "pattern" to help them become accustomed to helicopter activity.  If you have difficulty at your club, attempt to contact your AMA district representative or an AMA representave to voice your concerns.  In the future we would like to believe that all pilots can share the field and enjoy the different talents that each may possess.



If you are in need of assistance finding a new flying site below you will find the contact information of the AMA Flying Site Coordinators:

Districts I-VII
Joe Beshar
198 Merritt Drive
Oradell NJ 07649
Phone: 201-261-1281
Fax: 201-261-0223
E-mail: joebeshar@juno.com

Districts VIII-XI
Wes De Cou
202 W. Desert Flower Ln.
Phoenix AZ 85045
Phone: 480-460-9466
Fax: 480-460-9434
E-mail: wesdecou@cox.net