FAA Radio Control Aircraft rules

RC FIELD SAFETY POLICY

Document No.: OHFC-POL-001 Revision: 1.0 Effective Date: September 1, 2026 Status: Active / In Force Approved By: Board of Directors, Oak Harbor Flight Club Next Review: September 1, 2027 Replaces: N/A (Initial Issue)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section 1 Mission & Purpose Section 2 Scope & Applicability Section 3 Pilot Qualifications & Membership Requirements Section 4 RC Field Operating Rules Section 5 Safety Zones & Field Layout Section 6 Airspace Coordination with Full-Scale Operations Section 7 Youth Supervision Requirements Section 8 Emergency Procedures Section 9 Enforcement & Violations Section 10 Policy Review & Amendments Section 11 Member Acknowledgment

📄 NOTICE TO ALL MEMBERS This policy is mandatory for all persons operating at the OHFC RC flying field. All members and guests must read, understand, and comply with every provision herein. Failure to comply may result in suspension or revocation of flying privileges. A signed Member Acknowledgment (Section 11) must be on file with the Club Secretary before any field operations are permitted.

SECTION 1 — MISSION & PURPOSE The Oak Harbor Flight Club (OHFC) is a 501(c)(7) nonprofit social and recreational organization dedicated to advancing the art and science of flight, fostering a vibrant community of aviation enthusiasts, and promoting safe, responsible model aircraft operations throughout Whidbey Island and the surrounding communities of Island County, Washington. As stewards of the airspace and the communities in which we operate, OHFC members embrace a culture of safety, professionalism, and mutual respect — both in the air and on the ground. The Club is committed to providing a welcoming environment for pilots of all skill levels, from first-time trainees to seasoned aerobatic competitors. 1.1 Purpose of This Policy

This RC Field Safety Policy establishes the operating standards, rules of conduct, and emergency procedures governing all radio-controlled (RC) and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operations at the OHFC flying field. It is designed to: ● Protect the safety of members, guests, youth participants, the general public, and property; ● Protect the reputation and liability posture of the Oak Harbor Flight Club; ● Ensure compliance with applicable federal aviation regulations and community-based organization (CBO) guidelines; and ● Establish clear expectations and consistent enforcement of field conduct. 1.2 Regulatory Alignment

This policy is aligned with and incorporates, by reference, the following regulatory and organizational frameworks: ● AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics) Community-Based Organization (CBO) safety guidelines, as recognized under federal statute; ● FAA 49 U.S.C. § 44809 — Exception for limited recreational operations of unmanned aircraft; ● FAA Advisory Circular 91-57D (2025) — Model Aircraft Operating Standards; and ● FAA UAS registration requirements under 14 CFR Part 48. 1.3 Commitment to Full-Scale Aviation Integration

OHFC's flying field is located in close geographic proximity to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (NASWI) and its primary airfield, Ault Field (ICAO/FAA identifier: NUW). The Club is deeply committed to harmonious integration with full-scale military and civil aviation operations in the region. All RC/UAS operations must at all times prioritize the safety and non-interference of full-scale aircraft operating at and in the vicinity of NAS Whidbey Island.

✈ PRIORITY PRINCIPLE Full-scale manned aircraft always have the right of way. No RC or UAS operation, regardless of authorization status, supersedes the safety of manned flight. When in doubt, land immediately and yield.

SECTION 2 — SCOPE & APPLICABILITY 2.1 Applicability

This policy applies without exception to: ● All current OHFC members, regardless of tenure or officer status; ● Guest pilots visiting the field under member sponsorship; ● Youth participants and their accompanying parents or guardians; ● Visiting pilots from other AMA-affiliated clubs attending OHFC-sanctioned events; and ● Any person present at or operating an aircraft from the OHFC flying field site. 2.2 Aircraft Types Governed

This policy governs all radio-controlled and unmanned aircraft systems operated at the OHFC field, including but not limited to:

Aircraft Category Examples Special Provisions Fixed-Wing Aircraft Trainers, sport planes, aerobatic models, warbirds, scale aircraft Standard field rules apply Rotorcraft Traditional RC helicopters Designated hover area preferred Multirotors / Drones Quadcopters, hexacopters, racing drones FPV rules apply (§ 4.5); registration required if ≥ 250g Sailplanes / Gliders Powered and unpowered gliders, motor gliders Standard field rules apply Hybrid / VTOL Models Tilt-rotor, VTOL fixed-wing hybrids Safety Officer pre-authorization required Turbine-Powered Models Jet turbine aircraft Safety Officer pre-authorization required; § 4.4 applies

2.3 Regulatory Reference

Operations at the OHFC field are conducted in accordance with FAA Advisory Circular 91-57D (2025), which provides updated guidance for recreational UAS operations under the exception established by 49 U.S.C. § 44809. Members are encouraged to review the current version of AC 91-57D, available through the FAA website. SECTION 3 — PILOT QUALIFICATIONS & MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS All pilots operating at the OHFC field must meet the qualification requirements set forth in this section prior to conducting any flight operations. The Club Safety Officer shall maintain a current Pilot Qualification Log listing each member's certification status, AMA number, FAA TRUST completion, and skill rating. No person may operate an aircraft at the OHFC field without first appearing in the Pilot Qualification Log. 3.1 AMA Membership

● All pilots — members and guests alike — must hold a current, valid AMA membership at the time of any field operation. ● Pilots must carry their AMA membership card (physical or digital) at the field and must produce it upon request by the Safety Officer, Field Marshal, or any Club officer. ● Guest pilots may fly under the direct supervision of a full OHFC member for a maximum of one (1) day. The sponsoring member assumes full responsibility for the guest's conduct. Prior to any flight, the guest must complete a Field Orientation Briefing conducted by the Safety Officer or a designated CFI. ● Repeated guest visits require guest enrollment as an OHFC member. The Safety Officer may deny field access to any guest who has not received orientation. 3.2 FAA TRUST Certification

● All pilots must have successfully completed the FAA Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and must carry proof of completion (digital or printed) at the field at all times. ● This requirement applies to all pilots, including youth pilots. For pilots under 13 years of age, a parent or guardian who is a current OHFC member must hold TRUST certification and must supervise operations at all times. ● Instructor Exception: A Club Flight Instructor (CFI) conducting formal buddy-box dual-control training may hold TRUST certification on behalf of a student only during dual-control training flights where the instructor retains override authority. The student must obtain their own TRUST certification before flying any solo or unsupervised flight.

ℹ TRUST Certification Information The FAA TRUST test is free, available online through FAA-approved test administrators, and takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. Proof of completion must be retained by the pilot — the FAA does not maintain a public registry of TRUST completions. Visit faa.gov/uas/recreational_fliers/knowledge_test for a list of approved test administrators.

3.3 FAA UAS Registration

● All aircraft with a takeoff weight of 0.55 lbs (250 grams) or more must be registered with the FAA under 14 CFR Part 48 prior to any outdoor flight operation. ● The FAA-issued registration number must be permanently affixed to the exterior of each registered aircraft, in a location that is visible without requiring disassembly of the airframe. ● Proof of registration must be available at the field and produced upon request. ● Aircraft weighing under 0.55 lbs are exempt from FAA registration but remain subject to all other provisions of this policy. ● Pilots are responsible for maintaining current registration for each aircraft they operate. Expired registrations render an aircraft non-airworthy under this policy. 3.4 Pilot Skill Ratings (Club Internal Certification)

OHFC maintains an internal pilot skill rating system. All new members begin at the New Member / Trainee level and must progress through the rating system before unsupervised flight is permitted. The Safety Officer maintains the Pilot Qualification Log, which records each member's current rating, sign-off date, and endorsing CFI.

Rating Privileges Requirements New Member / Trainee May fly only under direct supervision of a Club Flight Instructor (CFI); buddy-box required for initial flights Completed field orientation; AMA membership; TRUST certification on file Solo Pilot Authorized for independent, unsupervised standard flight operations at the field Demonstrated safe solo capability; signed off in writing by a CFI; all qualifications current Advanced Pilot Authorized for high-performance operations, turbine aircraft (with SO approval), and FPV operations Demonstrated advanced proficiency; endorsed by CFI and approved by Safety Officer Club Flight Instructor (CFI) Authorized to conduct formal training, sign off new pilots, conduct field orientations, and serve as endorsing CFI for skill rating advancement Advanced Pilot rating; demonstrated instructional competency; appointed by the Board of Directors upon Safety Officer recommendation

📋 Pilot Qualification Log The Safety Officer is responsible for maintaining the Pilot Qualification Log. The Log must be available for review at the field during all flying sessions. Entries include: member name, AMA number, FAA registration numbers, TRUST completion date, current skill rating, endorsing CFI name, and sign-off date. Any pilot not appearing in the Log may not fly until their qualifications are verified.

SECTION 4 — RC FIELD OPERATING RULES 4.1 General Conduct

● Pilots must remain at designated pilot stations at all times while an aircraft is airborne or taxiing under their control. Abandoning the pilot station during flight constitutes a safety violation. ● Transmitters and radio equipment must be powered off or placed in safety/bind mode when the pilot is not at the pilot station. Unattended powered transmitters create RF interference hazards. ● No alcohol, cannabis, or any other impairing substance is permitted at the field, or within eight (8) hours prior to any flying activity. Any pilot suspected of impairment may be grounded immediately by the Safety Officer without appeal at the time of the incident. ● All pilots and bystanders must conduct themselves with courtesy, professionalism, and sportsmanship at all times. Harassment, intimidation, or conduct unbecoming a club member will not be tolerated. ● Where frequency-based radio systems are in use, only one pilot may occupy any given frequency channel at a time. A frequency control system (e.g., pin board) must be used. 2.4 GHz spread-spectrum frequency-hopping systems are strongly preferred and are exempt from frequency pin requirements. 4.2 Pre-Flight Requirements

Every aircraft must complete a satisfactory pre-flight inspection prior to each flying session. No aircraft may take off without a completed pre-flight. The pre-flight inspection must include, at a minimum: ● Airframe integrity: Inspect all primary structure, fuselage, wings, and tail surfaces for cracks, delamination, loose fasteners, or damage; ● Control surfaces: Verify full and free travel of all control surfaces; confirm correct direction of throw (no reversed controls); ● Motor/Engine & Propeller: Inspect propeller for cracks, chips, or imbalance; confirm motor mount is secure; verify correct propeller rotation direction; ● Battery/Fuel State: Confirm adequate battery charge or fuel level for intended flight; inspect LiPo batteries for swelling, damage, or puncture; ● Receiver & Transmitter Link: Confirm successful bind; verify all channels respond correctly; ● Failsafe: Verify that failsafe is configured to throttle-cut / motor-off upon signal loss. This is a mandatory configuration — no aircraft may fly without a confirmed throttle-cut failsafe. Before taxiing or launching, the pilot must announce "TAKING THE FIELD" in a clear voice. All non-participating persons and bystanders must be positioned behind the pilot stations before the aircraft launches.

⚠ SAFETY WARNING: Failsafe Configuration A failsafe configured to hold last command or return-to-home without proper altitude clearing presents a serious collision hazard. Every aircraft must be configured for immediate motor/engine cutoff upon signal loss. The Safety Officer may require a failsafe demonstration before permitting flight. Do not skip failsafe testing — it takes 30 seconds and can prevent a flyaway incident.

4.3 Flight Operations

● Maximum altitude: 400 feet AGL (above ground level) above the field. Operations above 400 feet AGL require coordination with Air Traffic Control (ATC) and LAANC authorization for the NUW Class D airspace. See Section 6. ● Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) must be maintained at all times during flight. A pilot must be able to see the aircraft with unaided eyes (corrective lenses are permitted) at all times to determine its attitude, altitude, and direction of flight. ● FPV goggle operations require a dedicated Visual Observer (VO) positioned adjacent to the FPV pilot, maintaining unaided VLOS at all times. See § 4.5. ● No flight is permitted over the pit/prep area, spectator areas, parking areas, or over any person not directly participating in the operation. ● Pattern calls are required during all multi-aircraft operations. Mandatory calls include: ○ "TAKING OFF" — prior to any takeoff roll or launch; ○ "LANDING" — when entering the landing pattern; ○ "LOW PASS" — prior to any low-altitude pass along the runway. ● The emergency call "DEAD STICK" indicates an aircraft with loss of power and immediate landing intent. All other pilots must yield the runway immediately upon hearing this call. ● Engine and motor run-ups and high-throttle tests must occur only in the designated run-up area, with the propeller arc entirely clear of all persons and structures. ● A maximum of five (5) aircraft may be airborne simultaneously. The Safety Officer or Field Marshal may reduce this number at any time based on field conditions, wind, visibility, or pilot experience levels present. 4.4 Noise & Environmental Considerations

● All internal combustion (IC) engines must be equipped with a properly functioning, effective muffler. Straight-pipe or unmuffled engines are prohibited. ● Flying hours are limited to the period between official sunrise and 30 minutes before official sunset, unless a special evening or night event has been formally approved by the Board of Directors in advance. Night flying requires FAA-compliant lighting if authorized. ● Turbine-powered aircraft require written pre-authorization from the Safety Officer before any operations at the field. Authorization is granted on a per-session basis and may include conditions specific to the aircraft or the day's operations. ● No RC aircraft may be flown over neighboring residential properties, farmland, or areas with livestock. OHFC members are expected to be considerate neighbors at all times. 4.5 FPV (First Person View) Operations

● FPV pilots must hold at minimum an Advanced Pilot rating (§ 3.4), or must demonstrate equivalent proficiency as evaluated by the Safety Officer or a CFI. ● A dedicated Visual Observer (VO) must be physically present and standing adjacent to the FPV pilot at all times during FPV flight. The VO must maintain unaided visual line of sight to the aircraft throughout the operation. ● The VO and FPV pilot must use a pre-planned, agreed-upon verbal communication protocol before commencing flight. At minimum, the protocol must include calls for: "Clear" (airspace clear to proceed), "Traffic" (conflicting aircraft or hazard identified), and "Land now" (immediate landing required). ● Where a designated FPV zone exists on the field, FPV operations must be confined to that zone. FPV flight outside the designated zone is not permitted without Safety Officer authorization. ● FPV racing or high-speed proximity operations require Safety Officer pre-authorization and may be restricted to organized events. SECTION 5 — SAFETY ZONES & FIELD LAYOUT The OHFC flying field is divided into defined zones, each with specific rules governing access and conduct. All members and guests must familiarize themselves with the field layout before any operations commence. The current field layout diagram is posted on the field bulletin board and on the club website.

FIELD DIAGRAM

5.1 Defined Field Zones

Zone Description Rules Pilot Stations / Flight Line Designated area where pilots stand during all flight operations; faces the runway and flight zone Pilots must remain here during flight; no bystanders forward of pilot stations; transmitters active only from this area Runway / Flight Zone Active flying area; the defined airspace and ground surface used for takeoffs, landings, and flight patterns No persons permitted in this area during flight operations; access only when all aircraft are grounded and pilots are aware Pit / Prep Area Aircraft staging, assembly, repair, battery charging, and fueling area, located behind the pilot stations Engines and motors must be off (idle or disarmed) unless the aircraft is in the run-up area; LiPo charging must use approved bags or containers Run-Up Area Designated location for engine/motor testing at operational power Aircraft pointed away from all persons and structures; propeller arc must be completely clear; only the operator may be within 10 feet during run-up Spectator Area Defined viewing area for non-flying guests and family members; located behind a physical barrier or clearly marked boundary line, rearward of pilot stations No aircraft operations or transmitter use in this area; spectators must remain within the designated boundary at all times Parking Area Vehicle parking for members and guests No flight over the parking area; vehicles should be parked before flying sessions begin to avoid movement during operations Emergency Assembly Point (EAP) Designated safe gathering location for all persons in the event of an emergency evacuation of the field Location designated on field diagram (Appendix A); all members must know the EAP location before flying; see Section 8

5.2 Minimum Safety Distances

● Pilots must maintain a minimum distance of 25 feet from spectators at all times when operating aircraft on the ground. ● Aircraft in flight must not pass within 25 feet of any person not directly involved in the operation, except during normal takeoff and landing on the designated runway. ● All battery charging must be conducted in the pit area using an approved LiPo-safe charging bag or fireproof container, placed on a non-flammable surface. 5.3 Designated No-Fly Zones

The following areas are designated No-Fly Zones and no RC or UAS operations are permitted over or in these areas under any circumstances without explicit written authorization: ● Any area outside the defined OHFC Flight Zone boundary; ● The field access road and any road or highway adjacent to the field; ● Neighboring residential or agricultural properties; ● Any area within a 5-statute-mile radius of NAS Whidbey Island / Ault Field (NUW), unless a valid LAANC authorization or explicit ATC clearance has been obtained and is on display at the field. (Note: The OHFC field location may fall within this radius — see Section 6.)

⚠ SAFETY WARNING: No-Fly Zone Violations Deliberate flight into a No-Fly Zone — particularly into the NUW Class D airspace without authorization — constitutes a federal aviation violation and may result in immediate membership revocation, FAA enforcement action, and potential civil or criminal penalties. See Section 9 for enforcement provisions.

SECTION 6 — AIRSPACE COORDINATION WITH FULL-SCALE OPERATIONS The OHFC RC flying field is located in geographic proximity to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (NASWI) and its primary operating airfield, Ault Field (NUW), which operates under Class D airspace when the NUW control tower is in operation. This proximity requires OHFC members to maintain exceptional airspace awareness and to adhere strictly to the coordination procedures set forth in this section. 6.1 Pre-Flight Airspace Checks (Mandatory)

Before every flying session, the presiding Safety Officer or Field Marshal must confirm airspace status using at least one of the following tools: ● B4UFLY (FAA mobile application) — provides real-time airspace restrictions and advisories; ● AirMap or equivalent FAA-recognized UAS planning tool; or ● LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) — FAA's automated airspace authorization system. The results of the pre-flight airspace check must be communicated to all pilots present before operations begin. If authorization status is unclear or cannot be confirmed, operations must not commence until authorization is verified. 6.2 LAANC Authorization

● If the OHFC field is located within a LAANC grid cell that requires authorization at or above the intended operating altitude, the presiding Safety Officer or Field Marshal must obtain LAANC authorization through a FAA-approved LAANC service supplier before operations begin. ● LAANC authorization documentation must be displayed at the field bulletin board for the duration of the flying session. ● Operations must remain within the altitude and geographic bounds of the LAANC authorization at all times. ● If LAANC authorization is denied or cannot be obtained, no flight operations may take place until authorization is secured or the airspace restriction is lifted.

⚠ SAFETY WARNING: Military Flight Operations NAS Whidbey Island conducts regular military flight training operations, including low-altitude jet aircraft activity, pattern work, and tactical approaches. No RC operations may take place during active military flight operations in the immediate area, unless the LAANC-authorized altitude grid permits safe operations at a separation altitude below the military pattern. When in doubt, cease operations and wait.

6.3 Emergency / Military Pattern Procedures

● If a full-scale aircraft is observed at low altitude in the vicinity of the field in apparent distress (unusual flight profile, smoke, debris, or radio calls observed), all RC operations must cease immediately and all aircraft must be landed or recovered as quickly as safely possible. ● The field must be cleared of all airborne RC aircraft before any emergency response resources are directed toward the area. ● The Safety Officer must contact NASWI airfield operations via available means to report the observation and offer any assistance. 6.4 Situational Awareness

● Members are encouraged to monitor ATIS/D-ATIS for NUW (where accessible) to remain aware of active flight operations, runway configuration, and NOTAMs (Notices to Air Missions) that may affect OHFC field operations. ● Any unusual or unexpected airspace activity — including unidentified aircraft, unusual low-altitude operations, or airspace NOTAMs — must be reported to the Safety Officer immediately. 6.5 Community Relations with NASWI

OHFC is committed to maintaining an open, cooperative, and proactive relationship with NASWI airfield operations. The Club will: ● Notify NASWI airfield operations of any planned special events, airshows, or high-activity flying sessions that may involve higher-than-normal aircraft traffic; ● Respond promptly and cooperatively to any inquiries or concerns raised by NASWI personnel regarding OHFC operations; and ● Incorporate any reasonable operational requests from NASWI into club procedures as a matter of good-neighbor policy. SECTION 7 — YOUTH SUPERVISION REQUIREMENTS OHFC actively encourages youth participation in model aviation as part of its nonprofit mission and its commitment to inspiring the next generation of aviators. At the same time, the Club recognizes its heightened duty of care toward youth participants and has established the requirements below to ensure their safety at all times. 7.1 Age & Eligibility Requirements

● All pilots under the age of 18 must have a signed Parental/Guardian Consent Form on file with the Club Secretary before participating in any field operations. The consent form must be completed and filed annually. ● Pilots under the age of 13 must be under the direct, hands-on supervision of a parent or guardian who is a current, active OHFC member at all times during field operations. "Hands-on supervision" means the supervising adult must be physically present at the pilot station with the youth at all times the aircraft is airborne or in motion. ● Pilots ages 13 through 17 may conduct solo flight operations after: ○ Completing the OHFC Solo Certification process (§ 3.4); ○ Receiving written sign-off from a Club Flight Instructor; and ○ Having a supervising adult (parent, guardian, or designated adult OHFC member) present on the field during the flying session, even if not at the pilot station. 7.2 Youth Training Program

● OHFC offers a Youth Mentorship and Buddy-Box Training Program for new youth pilots. Participation is strongly encouraged for all pilots under 18 years of age. ● Youth members must complete the Field Orientation Briefing before any field operations. ● Youth members must hold, or have their supervising parent/guardian hold, a valid FAA TRUST certification (§ 3.2). ● Youth flights should be supervised by a Club Flight Instructor (CFI) or a club-appointed Youth Safety Mentor. The Youth Safety Mentor must be at minimum a Solo Pilot with demonstrated experience working with youth participants, as approved by the Safety Officer. ● Youth participants are not subject to a reduced standard of safety — all field rules in Section 4 apply equally to youth pilots. 7.3 Buddy-Box / Dual-Control Training

● Buddy-box training (dual transmitter, instructor override) is the preferred and strongly recommended method for training all new pilots, and is mandatory for youth pilots under 13 years of age on their first flight. ● The CFI (Club Flight Instructor) retains override control authority at all times during all buddy-box training flights. The student pilot understands that the instructor may take immediate control without prior notice at any time for safety reasons. ● Training aircraft must undergo a full pre-flight inspection (§ 4.2) before each training session and must be in a verified airworthy condition. ● The CFI must brief the student on emergency procedures before commencing training flights, including the "Dead Stick" call and proper response. SECTION 8 — EMERGENCY PROCEDURES The procedures in this section are mandatory. All members must familiarize themselves with these procedures before flying at the OHFC field. Emergency response begins with clear, calm communication. Panic is the adversary of effective emergency management. In any emergency, the first priority is always human safety. 8.1 Aircraft Accident / Crash

1. Cease all flight operations immediately. All airborne aircraft must land as quickly as safely possible. No additional aircraft may take off until the Safety Officer authorizes resumption.
2. Do not approach the crash site until the motor or engine has fully stopped and the propeller(s) have come to rest.
3. For electric-powered aircraft, assume the battery may still be connected and energized — approach with caution. Do not short-circuit the battery or ESC leads.
4. Assess the crash site for injury to any person. If any person has been injured, call 911 immediately. Do not delay emergency services.
5. Assess for fire (see § 8.5). If a LiPo battery fire is present, follow LiPo fire procedures.
6. The Safety Officer or Field Marshal must complete an Incident Report Form within 24 hours of the incident. The report must include: date, time, pilot name, aircraft description, nature of the incident, any injuries or property damage, and corrective actions taken.
7. AMA incident reporting may be required pursuant to current AMA guidelines. The Safety Officer is responsible for determining AMA reporting obligations and completing required submissions.

⚠ SAFETY WARNING: Crashed Electric Aircraft Never approach a crashed electric aircraft until the motor has stopped and all propellers are stationary. A damaged but still-connected LiPo battery can cause the ESC to spool a motor suddenly — a spinning propeller is capable of causing severe lacerations. Treat every crashed electric aircraft as having a live battery until confirmed otherwise.

⚠ SAFETY WARNING: LiPo Battery Fire Lithium polymer (LiPo) battery fires burn extremely hot and produce toxic fumes. Do NOT use water on a LiPo fire. Water reacts violently with lithium and will intensify the fire. Use dry sand or a LiPo-safe fireproof bag / containment container to smother and contain the fire. If the fire is large, uncontrolled, or threatens persons or structures, evacuate and call 911 immediately.

8.2 Medical Emergency

8. Call 911 immediately for any medical emergency, regardless of apparent severity. Do not delay.

9. Cease all field operations immediately. No aircraft may take off, and airborne aircraft should land as quickly as safely possible.

10. Maintain clear access to the field entrance for emergency vehicles. If vehicles are blocking the access road, move them immediately.

11. The club must maintain a first-aid kit at the field at all times. The kit must be inspected quarterly and replenished as needed. The Safety Officer is responsible for kit maintenance.

12. At least one member present at the field is strongly encouraged to hold current CPR/AED certification. All members are encouraged to obtain this certification. The Safety Officer may post a list of CPR-certified members on the field bulletin board.

13. All field operations remain suspended until emergency services have resolved the situation and the Safety Officer authorizes resumption.

14. Emergency Assembly Point: See field diagram (Appendix A). All non-essential personnel should proceed to the EAP to keep the emergency area clear. 8.3 Lost Link / Flyaway

15. The affected pilot must immediately and loudly announce "FLYAWAY" so that all persons on the field are aware.

16. All other pilots must cease operations or land immediately upon hearing the flyaway call.

17. Note the last known heading, altitude, and speed of the aircraft. Multiple observers should attempt to track the aircraft visually and note its trajectory and approximate landing area.

18. Do not attempt to regain control by increasing transmitter power output or using high-gain antennas in a way that may cause RF interference with other aircraft or equipment.

19. If the aircraft exits the field boundary, contact local authorities (911) and report the flyaway to the FAA at 1-866-835-5322. Provide aircraft description, last known position, and heading.

20. Complete an Incident Report Form (§ 8.1) within 24 hours. 8.4 Airspace Incursion / Full-Scale Aircraft Emergency

21. Upon observing a full-scale aircraft operating at low altitude in a manner that suggests airspace conflict with OHFC operations, the Safety Officer or any pilot must immediately broadcast on the club frequency: "ALL PILOTS — LAND NOW."

22. All RC pilots must comply immediately and land their aircraft by the most direct safe means.

23. Clear the runway and flight zone entirely. No RC aircraft may be in the air.

24. If a full-scale aircraft emergency is observed (apparent distress, forced landing, crash), call 911 immediately and report the situation to NASWI airfield operations through any available means.

25. Do not approach any full-scale aircraft crash site. Await direction from emergency services.

26. RC operations may not resume until the Safety Officer confirms the airspace is clear and it is safe to do so. 8.5 Fire (Field, Vehicle, or Structural)

27. Any person who observes a fire must shout "FIRE" loudly and clearly so all persons on the field are alerted.

28. All persons must immediately proceed to the Emergency Assembly Point (Appendix A). Do not attempt to retrieve personal belongings.

29. Call 911 immediately for any structural fire, vehicle fire, or any fire that cannot be controlled safely within seconds.

30. Do not attempt to fight a structural, vehicle, or large field fire. Evacuate and await emergency services.

31. Small, contained LiPo battery fires may be managed with dry sand placed over the burning battery if — and only if — doing so presents no personal risk to the person acting. Never endanger yourself to save equipment.

🚑 Emergency Contact Reference Emergency (All): 911 | FAA UAS Hotline: 1-866-835-5322 | NASWI Airfield Operations: [Insert current number] | Club Safety Officer: [Insert name and phone] | Island County Sheriff: (360) 679-9567 Post these contacts at the field bulletin board and in the pit area. Update as personnel change.

SECTION 9 — ENFORCEMENT & VIOLATIONS 9.1 Safety Officer Authority

The Club Safety Officer holds full authority to ground any pilot for unsafe behavior, policy violation, or any conduct that in the Safety Officer's judgment poses a risk to persons or property. A grounding order takes effect immediately upon issuance and is not subject to on-field appeal. The affected pilot must comply immediately and may submit an appeal to the Board of Directors within the timeframe specified in § 9.4. The Field Marshal, in the absence of the Safety Officer, holds equivalent authority during active flying sessions. 9.2 Violation Documentation

All violations must be documented in writing by the Safety Officer or observing officer within 24 hours of the incident. Documentation must include: the date, time, name of the pilot, a description of the violation, any witness names, and the action taken. Documentation is maintained in the member's file by the Club Secretary and may be reviewed by the Board of Directors. 9.3 Escalating Consequences

Level Action Issued By Duration Level 1 Verbal Warning — documented in member file Safety Officer or CFI Noted; no flying restriction Level 2 Written Warning — formal written notice delivered to member Safety Officer Noted; no flying restriction unless specified Level 3 Temporary Suspension — member suspended from field operations for a defined period Safety Officer, confirmed by Board As determined by the Board (typically 30–90 days) Level 4 Membership Revocation — permanent or long-term termination of membership and field access Board of Directors (majority vote) Permanent, unless appealed and overturned

9.4 Grounds for Immediate Revocation

The following violations may result in immediate membership revocation by the Board of Directors, without requiring escalation through Levels 1–3: ● Reckless endangerment — operating an aircraft in a manner that poses a clear and immediate danger to any person; ● Flying under the influence — operating an aircraft while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or any other substance; ● Deliberate airspace violation — intentional, unauthorized flight into restricted airspace, including Class D airspace at NUW without LAANC authorization; or ● Deliberate falsification of qualifications, certifications, or incident reports. 9.5 Right of Appeal

Any member subject to a formal written warning, suspension, or revocation has the right to appeal the decision to the Board of Directors. The appeal must be submitted in writing to the Club Secretary within 30 calendar days of the date of the disciplinary action. The Board will convene a review within 30 days of receiving the appeal and will issue a written decision. The Board's decision on appeal is final. SECTION 10 — POLICY REVIEW & AMENDMENTS ● This policy is subject to a mandatory annual review by the OHFC Safety Committee and the Board of Directors, to be conducted no later than 60 days before the policy anniversary date. ● The Safety Committee shall evaluate this policy for compliance with current FAA regulations, AMA CBO guidelines, and any changes to the field, airspace, or club operations, and shall present recommendations to the Board of Directors. ● Amendments to this policy require a majority vote of the Board of Directors at a duly noticed Board meeting. ● All members will be notified of adopted amendments via the club newsletter or email within 15 calendar days of adoption by the Board. Notifications will include a summary of changes and the effective date of the amended provisions. ● The current, controlling version of this policy shall at all times be posted on the club website and displayed on the field bulletin board. Superseded versions shall be archived by the Club Secretary. ● Emergency interim amendments — required due to urgent regulatory changes or safety incidents — may be implemented by the Safety Officer with immediate effect, subject to ratification by the Board at its next scheduled meeting. SECTION 11 — MEMBER ACKNOWLEDGMENT & AGREEMENT This acknowledgment must be completed by every OHFC member and by any guest pilot prior to any field operations. Completed forms must be submitted to the Club Secretary and retained in the member's file. A signed acknowledgment is a condition of field access and participation in OHFC activities.

— Member Acknowledgment Statement — I, the undersigned, hereby acknowledge and affirm the following: 32. I have read, understood, and agree to comply with all provisions of the Oak Harbor Flight Club RC Field Safety Policy, Revision 1.0, effective September 1, 2026, in its entirety. 33. I understand that compliance with this policy is a condition of my membership and my privilege to operate aircraft at the OHFC flying field. 34. I understand that violations of this policy may result in verbal warning, written warning, temporary suspension, or permanent revocation of my membership, as determined by the Safety Officer and Board of Directors. 35. I understand that RC/UAS operations carry inherent risks and I accept personal responsibility for operating safely and in accordance with all applicable FAA regulations, AMA guidelines, and this policy. 36. I agree to immediately report any safety incident, accident, or observed policy violation to the Safety Officer. 37. I agree that this acknowledgment remains in effect for the current membership year and must be renewed annually or upon any material amendment to this policy.

Printed Name AMA Membership Number

Member Signature Date (MM/DD/YYYY)

Email Address on File Phone Number

For Guest Pilots: Complete the above fields and submit to the presiding Safety Officer or Field Marshal before any flight operation. Guest pilots must also complete the Field Orientation Briefing. AMA membership number is required for all guest pilots.

For Office Use Only:

Safety Officer or CFI Signature (Acknowledgment Received) Date Filed

Pilot Skill Rating Assigned FAA Registration No(s). Verified

Board of Directors Approval This policy was reviewed and adopted by the Board of Directors of the Oak Harbor Flight Club on the date indicated below.

President, Oak Harbor Flight Club Date

Safety Officer, Oak Harbor Flight Club Date

Secretary, Oak Harbor Flight Club Date

Oak Harbor Flight Club | RC Field Safety Policy | Document No. OHFC-POL-001 | Revision 1.0 | Effective September 1, 2026 Page [X] of [Y] — Controlled Document: Verify revision currency before use. Current version available at the OHFC field bulletin board and club website.