Swindon Model Aero Club prides itself in supporting newcomers through their journey of learning to fly a model aircraft, but we don’t stop there.

We offer instruction to all our members, regardless of experience. One of the amazing aspects of our sport is that there is always something new to learn or to improve. We will assist in any way we can.

Learning to fly is something that can be done without the assistance of a club, particularly with modern stabilisation technologies and the likes of YouTube. However, while it is possible to learn alone, you won’t progress above a certain level and there is much more enjoyment and camaraderie in a group of likeminded people with the opportunities and benefits a club provides.

Self Directed Learning

Being in a club doesn’t mean that you are able to sit back and be taught. Just like learning to drive a car, you need to ‘do your homework’ and read up on what is required to fly safety and prepare for each lesson. There are certain things that can bring down the cost of learning to fly.

We would recommend you buy one of the many excellent RC aircraft simulators (perhaps second hand) as they can dramatically reduce the time and cost associated with learning to fly.

Subject to free spaces on the training programme, SMAC offer new members 15 free flying instruction sessions and will even provide a training aircraft for the first 8 sessions.

When you come to buy your first model it is a good idea to buy one with a form of stabilisation such as A3X or Reflex which dramatically reduces the chances of losing control during your first few hours of instruction and the assistance level can be reduced as you progress.

It’s also a good idea to seek help and advice from other club members, not solely from the instructors, as there is a wealth of knowledge and experience that can help you avoid expensive mistakes.

Learning during your initial membership year

Lessons 1-8. The initial outlay to purchase a model can be daunting, especially if you are uncertain if this is the sport for you. So the club will provide instruction on a club trainer aircraft for the first 8 sessions. Please note that these lessons are for flying instruction only and not for setting up models. Club members will be happy to assist in setting up your model in advance of any flying instruction.

Lessons 9-15. SMAC will continue to provide instruction but only using the students model and buddy box. There are many second hand trainer models and transmitters being regularly sold and club members can assist by advising on the best kit to buy and in finding good deals. While instructors can help with setting up your model, this counts towards your lesson count. They will encourage you to seek assistance from club members, who can give you the benefit of their experience.

Lessons 16+. SMAC will continue to provide instruction on request but there is a charge of £10 per session. This charge ensures that the club can continue to provide training for other newcomers like you in the future.

The Learning journey as a member

SMAC offers 5 free instruction sessions annually to members, principally in support of members progressing through the BMFA Achievement scheme. Further instruction sessions can be provided at a charge of £10 per session.

CAA Operator ID and Flyer ID

It is a legal requirement that all model flyers hold a CAA Operator ID and Flyer ID to fly model aircraft or drones in the UK. For your initial lessons you will fly under the direct supervision of a club instructor who will use their own Operator ID. However, as you progress you will need your own Operator and Flyer ID. We recommend going through the BMFA Remote Competence Certificate (RCC) route as it is geared specifically to model flyers. Once you have your ID’s, let the club know so we can record the details.

Proceeding with Instruction

As a newcomer you will be assigned to a lead instructor who will be your primary point of contact. They will guide you and answer any questions you may have and coordinate your initial instruction. As you progress you will be able to request sessions with other instructors or club members. We operate 3 levels of supervision.

Club Instructors only – Initially you will only be able to receive instruction from club instructors. They will focus on basic skills and teach you to fly safely.

‘A’ Certificate pilots only – Once you have your own Operator and Flyer ID’s and have shown you can operate safely then your lead instructor can authorise you to fly your model under the supervision of another club member who holds a BMFA ‘A’ certificate.

Unsupervised – Once you have demonstrated to your lead instructor that you can complete a flight consistently and safely then you will be signed off as able to fly solo.

The BMFA has an extremely handy resource base which will cover all your needs and how you can progress. Please read https://achievements.bmfa.uk/

We hope that we can aid you in your journey to becoming a competent model pilot and enjoying the varied challenges the hobby provides.

Below are typical types of training aircraft you can expect to be suitable for learning to fly