About York County Flyers
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York County Flyers is a non-profit corporation with over one hundred Carolinians devoted to promoting interest in building and flying radio controlled model aircraft. We are the largest AMA chartered club in the area, and we pride ourselves on a more casual laid back environment that fosters the promotion and growth of our hobby.
What does "AMA chartered" mean?
The Academy of Model Aeronautics is the world's largest model aviation association and is the national organization for model aviation in the United States, representing a membership of more than 150,000. The AMA works with the Federal Aviation Administration, the Federal Communications Commission, and other government agencies through the national AMA headquarters in Muncie, Indiana, and it supports local governments to promote the interests of local chartered clubs. AMA offers its chartered clubs official contest sanction, insurance, and assistance in getting and keeping flying sites.
Who can join YCF?
Membership is open to all who are interested in radio controlled flight. Our members range from 11 years old to almost 90 and come from every walk of life.
Can anyone fly at the YCF Field?
No -- only club members and other AMA members who are guests of club members may use the field. However, Non-AMA members may learn to Fly at the field under the Introductory Pilot Program, for a list of Intro Pilots at YCF go to Learn to Fly page. YCF also holds four AMA sanctioned fly-ins each year in which AMA members from around the region come to fly at the YCF field. The public is welcome at no charge as spectators during these events, and the events frequently include an afternoon display of all planes on the runway when you can get up close to the aircraft and talk with the pilots.
Can I watch the flying and talk to pilots?
You bet -- anytime flying activities are underway at the field. We ask members of the public to remain behind the fence for safety reasons, but the pilots will be happy to talk to you when they are not flying.
I've been to the field but nobody talked to me. What's up with that?
Its hard for us pilots to recognize the difference between folks that just want to watch the action and those that may have questions. Don't be bashful!
What kind of aircraft do YCF members fly?
Just about anything that flies with radio control can be found flying with our club members. The smallest planes weigh barely an ounce and fit in the palm of the hand. The largest may weigh up to 55 pounds with wing spans as long as one-third that of the full sized airplane. Many have combustion engines, some have all-electric power systems, and several are gliders that may stay aloft for hours with no power at all. Helicopters are growing rapidly in popularity in our club, and we are currently adding new facilities especially for RC helicopter pilots.
Can I get help learning to fly?
Yes! One of the satisfactions of this hobby is helping newcomers get started because we all started as student pilots. Whatever type of RC model aviation you find interesting, whether it’s building or flying, helicopters or airplanes, we probably have someone who can help you, visit the Learn to Fly page for more information.
What does it cost to get started?
A budget of about $400/$500 will let you get started with memberships, a basic flyer, and necessary equipment, however if you participate in the Introductory Pilot Program, your initial cost could be almost zero. There are many choices about flyers and equipment, including used equipment which can save money. Our club members can help you get the most value for your money. As you become more experienced, you will likely want more capable radio equipment and aircraft, so as in most hobbies, you can spend as much or as little as you choose. The good news is that the additional expenses can be staged in as you can afford it.
How do I get started?
The first steps are to join the AMA and York County Flyers, however if you are just wanting to try it out, talk with one of the Intro Pilot Instructors on the Learn to Fly page. You can sign up with the AMA online. We prefer you to use our online application, however, you can always print and submit a hard copy application. Your 2 choices to submit a membership application:
Option 1: Print off the application form, fill it out, mail it in (or hand deliver it)
Option 2: Use our online membership system
One of the best ways to figure out whether RC model flying is for you is to come to a club meeting. Club meetings are open the public, and we enjoy meeting visitors who are interested in model aviation. You can meet members who have similar interests, and you may even be able to get some time after the meeting on a “buddy box” on a real RC model. Club meetings are held the first Saturday of each month (2nd Saturday in July) at the field at 9am during summer months and 9:30 am during the winter. During the winter months we meet at the York County Public Library.
We also will be happy to add you to the YCF email list to receive our monthly bulletins and event announcements. Join our mailing list now be included in our mailings. We do not share our mailing lists with anyone, and you can be removed from the list anytime you want.