Introduction
The aim of the RC Achievement Scheme is to encourage RC model flyers to improve their standard of flying and safety, and to prove that standard to an Examiner. The scheme is run by the BMFA as a National Scheme and it is open to all RC model flyers, including non-members.
It is important to appreciate that the scheme is not primarily about permitting or licensing. Fundamentally, the scheme is all about personal goals and challenges. It is intended to provide every RC flyer with something to aspire to and aim for, should they so wish. The scheme is not compulsory!
The scheme encompasses power and silent flight disciplines, which were unified under a single controller in 2014.
The scheme may be used by any model flying group or club, whether it is BMFA affiliated or not and all applications from clubs who wish to participate in the scheme are welcome.
The scheme provides Proficiency Certificates and Achievement awards. Achievement Awards are available at ‘A’ (basic) and ‘B’ (advanced) levels for a wide variety of disciplines. Specialist ‘C’ certificate endorsements are also available to ‘B’ certificate holders.
The Basic Proficiency Certificates provide a measure of competence for pilots operating fixed and rotary wing aircraft fitted with stabilisation technologies.
An FPV extension is also available to holders of any Basic Proficiency or ‘A’ certificate.
The ‘A’ Certificate, which may be equated to a basic standard of safety and flying competence.
The ‘B’ Certificate, which is designed to recognise a more advanced pilot’s increased ability and knowledge, and demonstrates a high level of safety.
In addition, there are endorsements available to the ‘B’ Certificate in various disciplines for those flyers who wish to take their personal flying standards and achievements further. These are,
The ‘C’ Certificate, Aerobatics.
The ‘C’ Certificate, Scale
The ‘C’ Certificate, Gas Turbine
For Silent Flight, there are three additional Thermal Certificates, the Gold, Diamond and Diamond Star, which are run independently by BARCS.