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FEBRUARY
WING
SPAN
MAAALogo.
5
SAFETY
first
The MAAA recently sponsored the F1 Air Race at Sandown
Racecourse, Melbourne. This was an exciting event but
provides a timely reminder of all the hard work that goes
on behind the scenes to make sure that events like this
are safe and fun for everyone involved.
Here is some general information for holding an event.
If your club is considering a public model flying display
you need to ensure that you comply with MOP019
Display Procedure which includes contacting your State
Association to ensure all approvals are in place.
If your club is holding a model flying display they need to
appoint:
A Display Director
This person is responsible for the planning, organisation
and running of the event.
A Flight Line Director
A Flight Line Director will assist in planning the flying,
briefing the pilots, and will be responsible for all flying
activities carried out on the day. The display director may
carry out these duties if required.
SAFETY BOTH ON AND OFF THE GROUND
IS THE KEY TO ORGANISING A SUCCESSFUL
MODEL FLYING DISPLAY
The organisers holding a model flying
display should:
• Establish whether a CASA approval is
required for the event
• Ensure arrangements are made for
spectator control, all pilots have the
experienced to operate at the event.
• Transmitter control and frequency,
as well as airworthiness and safety
checking of models occurs on the day.
• Liaise with authorities. For the F1 Air
Race Sandown we not only liaised with
the Police and Fire Brigade but also
ensured there was adequate security
and that first aid was provided by the
Royal Flying Doctors Service.
• Conduct a formal risk assessment.
• Ensure spectators are behind a barrier
located parallel to the take-off and
landing direction. They should be
only on one side of the flying area
for radio-controlled aircraft.
In no
circumstances should take-off
and landing be performed towards
spectator or nearby car park areas.
• Importantly, ensure the distance of
models from spectators is not less
than 30 metres for all operations
including take-off or landing.
REMEMBER YOU CAN CONTACT YOUR STATE
SECRETARY FOR ADVICE ON HOLDING MODEL
FLYING EVENTS
key points