Become a New RC Pilot

Learning to fly radio-controlled aircraft is easier and more fun with the right guidance. Follow these steps, and our experienced club instructors will help you progress safely from your first visit to your first solo flight.

1. Visit the Club

Come to Rainbow RC Airpark, meet our members, tour the field, and learn more about the hobby.

You do not need an airplane or previous flying experience to visit. Please speak with one of our instructors before purchasing an aircraft, since some models are much better for beginners than others.

Rainbow RC Airpark
12175 South Bridges Road
Dunnellon, Florida 34431
Click for Directions

Flying activity depends on weather, field conditions, and member availability. Before making a special trip, please contact the club to confirm that members are expected to be at the field.

2. Complete FAA TRUST

Take the free Recreational UAS Safety Test, commonly called TRUST. All recreational pilots must pass TRUST and carry proof of completion while flying. Save a printed or digital copy of your certificate.

3. Obtain Your FAA Number

Register through the FAA when required and obtain your recreational registration number. Registration is generally required for recreational aircraft weighing more than 0.55 pounds.

Your FAA number must be displayed on your aircraft, and you must carry proof of registration while flying.

Suggested button: Register with the FAA

4. Join the AMA

Become a member of the Academy of Model Aeronautics. Active AMA membership is required to join Tri-County R/C Club.

AMA provides safety programming, model aviation resources, and membership benefits for recreational pilots.

Suggested button: Join the AMA

5. Join Tri-County R/C Club

Complete the club membership application and required agreements. You will need your:

• TRUST certificate
• FAA registration number
• AMA membership number
• Contact information
• Parent or guardian consent if you are a junior applicant

New members agree to follow club rules, safety standards, bylaws, and applicable AMA and FAA requirements.

6. Meet Your Flight Instructor

After joining, you will be assigned a club flight instructor.

Your instructor will help you with:

• Choosing and setting up a trainer aircraft
• Preflight inspections
• Field and runway procedures
• Basic aircraft controls
• Takeoffs, turns, traffic patterns, and landings
• Safe flying practices

New pilots must complete a field orientation, safety review, and flight training as needed.

7. Complete Your First Solo Flight

Your instructor will guide you through each lesson and help determine when you are ready to fly independently.

Once you can safely prepare, take off, control, and land your aircraft, you will complete your first solo flight.

Congratulations, you are now an RC pilot!

Ready to begin? Start by scheduling a visit to Rainbow RC Airpark.