FAA Information

Radio-controlled model aircraft are considered unmanned aircraft systems by the Federal Aviation Administration. Pilots flying at Rainbow RC Airpark are responsible for following applicable FAA requirements and Tri-County R/C Club rules.

Recreational Pilot Requirements

TRUST Certificate

Every recreational flyer must complete the free Recreational UAS Safety Test, known as TRUST, and carry proof of completion while flying.

A TRUST certificate does not expire. However, the FAA does not maintain replacement copies, so a pilot who loses the certificate may need to take the test again.

FAA Registration

Aircraft weighing more than 0.55 pounds, or 250 grams, must generally be registered with the FAA.

Pilots must:

• Carry proof of registration while flying.
• Display the FAA registration number on the aircraft.
• Keep their registration and aircraft inventory current.
• Include Remote ID information in their FAA inventory when applicable.

Aircraft weighing 0.55 pounds or less are generally exempt from registration when flown exclusively for recreation.

Visual Line of Sight

The pilot must be able to see the aircraft throughout the flight.

A visual observer may assist when positioned near the pilot and communicating directly with the pilot. Cameras, video screens, binoculars, and FPV goggles do not replace the FAA visual-line-of-sight requirement.

Crewed Aircraft Have Priority

Model aircraft must always give way to crewed aircraft.

When a crewed aircraft approaches:

1. Move away from its flight path.
2. Land when necessary.
3. Resume flying only after the airspace is clear.

Never assume that a crewed-aircraft pilot can see or avoid a model aircraft.

Temporary Flight Restrictions

Temporary Flight Restrictions, commonly called TFRs, may temporarily prohibit or restrict model aircraft operations.

TFRs may be issued for:

• Presidential or VIP travel.
• Wildfires and disaster response.
• Major sporting events.
• Military or security operations.
• Other special activities.

Pilots are responsible for checking current airspace restrictions before flying.

Recreational and Part 107 Operations

Recreational flights are conducted solely for enjoyment under the FAA’s recreational exception.

Flights conducted for business, compensation, inspections, commercial photography, advertising, or another non-recreational purpose may be governed by 14 CFR Part 107 and different operating requirements.

The purpose of the flight determines which FAA rules apply, not the type of aircraft being flown.

Before You Fly

Before operating at Rainbow RC Airpark:

• Carry your TRUST certificate.
• Carry FAA registration when required.
• Properly mark the aircraft with its FAA registration number.
• Confirm that the aircraft is safe and airworthy.
• Check for temporary flight restrictions.
• Maintain visual line of sight.
• Give way to all crewed aircraft.
• Follow all club rules and safety instructions.

Night flying is not permitted at Rainbow RC Airpark.

Pilots who are uncertain about an aircraft, airspace condition, or planned operation should speak with a club officer before flying.

Useful FAA Links

• FAA Recreational Flyers
• FAA TRUST Information
• FAA Remote ID Information
• FAA Airspace and B4UFLY Services
• FAA Temporary Flight Restrictions
• FAA Part 107 Information

Fly safely, respect the National Airspace System, and help protect our flying site.

FAA requirements may change. Pilots remain responsible for confirming current requirements before operating.