These Site Operating Rules apply to all flying activities at the Southport Model Aero Club Leisure Lakes site. They support the club Risk Assessment and form part of the BMFA affiliation documentation.

1. General

• Site is for the use of Southport Model Aero Club (SMAC) Members only
• Visitors to be accompanied by club officials or nominated club member
• All pilots must be current SMAC & BMFA members with valid insurance.
• Flying must comply with SMAC, BMFA Safety Codes and UK CAA regulations.
• Pilots must follow instructions from club officials or safety officers.

2. Flying Area and Discipline

• Flying is restricted to the designated flight box.
• No flying behind the pilot line or over pits or spectators.
• Visual line of sight must be maintained at all times.

3. Pits and Model Handling

• Engines and motors must only be started or armed in designated areas.
• Models must be restrained during engine start.
• Taxiing in the pits area is prohibited.

4. Take-off and Landing

• Runway direction is determined by prevailing wind.
• Pilots must call clearly: Taking off, Landing, Dead stick.
• Landing aircraft have priority.

5. Training

• Trainees must fly under supervision of a club-approved instructor.
• Buddy-box systems must be used for training flights.
• Solo flying only permitted after instructor approval.

6. Batteries, Fuel, and Fire Safety

• LiPo batteries must be charged in fire-resistant bags.
• Charging must not be left unattended.
• Damaged batteries must not be used.

7. Public and Environmental Safety

• Flying must stop if members of the public enter safety areas.
• Pilots should engage politely with the public.
• Flying must cease if livestock or wildlife enter the area.

8. Incidents and Emergencies

• Flying must stop immediately if instructed.
• Accidents and near misses must be reported to a club official.
• Serious incidents must be reviewed by the committee