At SMAC we actively encourage members to work towards passing the BMFA ‘A’ and ‘B’ proficiency certificates. We have a team of Instructors and Examiners to get new pilots into the air and to quickly gain confidence to take their ‘A’ or ‘B’. If you are new to our hobby we can provide initial flight training to start your journey into the world of model flying or if your are a confident pilot but have not taken your BMFA proficiency, we can assist you to reach the required standard. These skills will improve your flying and enjoyment of the hobby. If you already have an ‘A’ or ‘B’ but have been away from the hobby or you feel that as you get older you have lost some confidence in your flying ability, please do get in touch as the Club recognises this issue and wants to keep everyone flying as long as possible. We can arrange for you to have a ‘Buddy’ to stand with you while you fly to offer encouragement or assist with the flight. Please contact smac2000.org.uk@gmail.com and we will put you in contact with our Membership Secretary who can show you around the site and facilities and once you join we will pair you with one of our flight instructors to get you flying.

Some of our instructors have training aircraft that they can let a new member try to see how they get on before committing to their own purchase. Please ask the instructor for advice on the best type of model for your training needs.

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

As tempting as it may be to jump straight into the hobby with that Supermarine Spitfire that you have always dreamt of, it is highly recommended that you start your flying training with a model like the ones shown above. Generally they are high wing, tricycle undercarriage models because they are predictable, forgiving, easier to land and take off and will give you confidence as you progress. Some models have electronic stability assistance which aids a new flyer by preventing excessive control movement and keeping the model in level flight. The assistance can be reduced as the pilots confidence and abilities improve.

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

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