Three years ago, the FAA started requiring model aircraft users to register with the FAA and attach the assigned registration number to their aircraft in a manner that made it visible without dis-assembly. We were also required to have the registration card on our person when flying. Up until now, it has not been the club’s responsibility to enforce this. If a person got caught operating a model aircraft without the proper registration then that was their problem, not the clubs.

That has now changed. While the club is still not responsible for enforcing this rule, the FAA has shut down at least two model airfields because the flyers there were not registered. The Board of Directors is going to do everything they can to not allow this to happen to your field. Therefore, beginning August 1, 2019 anyone flying at Prado Airpark is required to be registered with the FAA, be able to show their registration card when flying at the Prado Air Park and have their model aircraft correctly marked with their registration number. Anyone (member or nonmember) who does not abide by this rule, will not be allowed to fly at Prado Air Park.

In addition, beginning September 15, 2019 when club renewals begin, you must provide a paper copy of your FAA registration card just as you do with your AMA card. New or renewal applications will not be accepted with out proof of FAA registration. You can apply for registration and read the associated rules at the following FAA website:

https://www.faa.gov/uas/getting_started/register_drone/

Many people associate the word drone with quadcopters. The FAA does not make this distinction. They refer to any radio-controlled model aircraft as a drone and all aircraft must be registered and marked appropriately. You can also find rules for flying your model aircraft and requirements for labeling your model aircraft at this site.

Thank you for cooperation to help keep Prado Airpark open.

PVMAC Board of Directors