DOT Model Aircraft Operating Standards - AC 91-57

DATE June 9, 1981

CIRCULAR

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

Washington, D.C.

Subject: MODEL AIRCRAFT OPERATING STANDARDS

1. PURPOSE. This advisory circular outlines, and encourages voluntary compliance with, safety standards for model aircraft operators.

2. BACKGROUND. Modelers, generally, are concerned about safety and do exercise good judgment when flying model aircraft. However, model. aircraft can at times pose a hazard to full-scale aircraft in flight and to persons and property on the surface. Compliance with the following standards will help reduce the potential for that hazard and create a good neighbor environment with affected communities and airspace users.

3. OPERATING STANDARDS.

          a. Select an operating site that is of sufficient distance from populated areas. The selected site should be away from noise sensitive areas such as parks, schools, hospitals, churches, etc.

          b. Do not operate model aircraft in the presence of spectators until the aircraft is successfully flight tested and proven airworthy. CO Do not fly model aircraft higher than 400 feet above the surface. When flying aircraft within 3 miles of an airport, notify the airport operator, or when an air traffic facility is located at the airport, notify the control tower, or flight service station.

          d. Give right of way to, and avoid flying in the proximity of, full-scale aircraft. Use observers to help if possible.

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