AMA Programs For Members: Promoting the Hobby
PROMOTING THE HOBBY
Flying Site Help
A comprehensive package of support materials is available free of charge. Two videotapes are available and may be borrowed by chartered clubs. Qualified AMA staffers may visit clubs and local government agencies for meetings regarding site acquisition. Write to the Marketing Department at AMA Headquarters for details.
Intro-Pilot Program
An intro-pilot program is available to all chartered clubs. Qualified pilots from chartered clubs (limited to three per club) may participate. Instructors can train non-AMA members to fly radio-controlled airplanes during a period of 30 consecutive days; students are covered by the liability provisions of the AMA insurance policy. Full details are available from the Special Services Department at AMA Headquarters.
Adopt-A-School
AMA encourages clubs to adopt schools in their localities. Instructional materials are provided by AMA, and many suppliers offer elementary kits at discounted prices. Participants receive a commemorative pin and patch from AMA, and exceptional programs are featured in Model Aviation magazine.
Mall Shows
AMA Headquarters will ship free handout materials to chartered clubs and award a commemorative pin to club workers. Clubs should notify AMA Headquarters 30 days prior to a planned show to allow time for shipping.
Air Show Team (AST) Program
AMA encourages highly skilled fliers who enjoy performing before audiences to inquire about the AST program. The Academy provides support and liaison with manufacturers and suppliers. Teams must meet certain performance standards and annual reporting requirements. Guidelines for forming a team are available upon request.
SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Scholarships
Several scholarships are awarded annually to young AMA members entering college or university. Annual awards total approximately $20,000. Interested applicants may obtain details by writing to AMA Headquarters.
Educator Support
A classroom package is available to educators who write to AMA Headquarters on school letterhead. The package contains suggestions for classroom activities, lists sources of materials, and identifies other companies and associations that provide documentation and guidance. Using model aviation techniques can enhance student learning in mathematics and the sciences.
Renaud Research Library
Located at AMA Headquarters in Reston, Virginia, the Renaud Research Library is open to all AMA members. The library contains more than 30,000 publications on all phases of aviation and is a valuable source for scale research, AMA historical information, and old-time models. Collections of popular modeling magazines spanning many decades are available for examination. Direct inquiries to the Librarian at 703-435-0750.
RECOGNIZING INDIVIDUALS
Leader Member
The Leader Member program recognizes leaders in the modeling community. Three classifications exist: Administrative, Industry, and Scientific. Members recognized in this program help administer Academy activities and maintain voting privileges on AMA bylaws. Information and applications are available from the Membership Department at AMA Headquarters.
Contest Director
Contest Director is the highest level of Leader Member. Contest Directors organize and run flying events through the AMA sanctioning program. Members granted Contest Director status are automatically recognized as Administrative Members. Information and applications are available from the Technical Department at AMA Headquarters. Call 703-435-0750, extensions 264 or 267.
Appreciation Awards
Clubs may purchase appreciation awards for flying site providers and others who assist chartered clubs. The AMA certificate is designed for signature by a club officer. A walnut-mounted plaque, with up to 30 words inscribed in calligraphy and decorated with a gold seal and red, white, and blue ribbon, is available for $25 postpaid.
PARTICIPATING IN WORLD-CLASS AEROMODELING COMPETITION
World Championships
Any AMA member may have the opportunity to represent the U.S.A. and AMA in international aeromodeling competitions. Trials for selecting world championship team members are held annually. Details are published in Model Aviation magazine and are obtainable through the FAI secretary at AMA Headquarters. All international events are authorized by the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI).
ADDITIONAL BENEFIT PLANS FOR MEMBERS
Overview
The Academy of Model Aeronautics has entered into working arrangements with private companies that provide various insurance and benefit plans to AMA members. These plans take advantage of group pricing available to the large membership pool.
Available Benefits
- Homeowner's Insurance: Policies are available to AMA members who are renters or condo owners. Coverage includes operation of model cars, boats, and large model aircraft, plus replacement cost coverage for homes and contents. Coverage is available for $300,000 comprehensive personal liability and $5,000 all-risk—at rates that may be lower than members are currently paying (not available in all states). Call 1-800-228-2487 for more information.
- Group Term Life Insurance: Policies with death benefits of up to $200,000 (in $10,000 increments) are available to AMA members and their spouses, and up to $2,500 for each child. Call 1-800-323-2106 for more information.
- $100,000 Accident Insurance: Accident insurance is available to AMA members, providing coverage for accidental death, loss of sight, or dismemberment while traveling to, at, or returning from any AMA-sanctioned event. Call 1-800-323-2106 for more information.
- Excess Major Medical Group Insurance: AMA members can obtain up to $1 million in affordable hospital and medical group insurance to help protect against catastrophic health-care expenses. Call 1-800-759-0101 and ask for the National Aeronautic Association group. (The Academy of Model Aeronautics is an affiliate of the National Aeronautic Association.)
- Vision Care Plan: AMA members and their families may participate in the Eye Care Plan of America (ECPA), which provides 20% to 60% savings on eye care. Many providers participate (Sears, Montgomery Ward, Eyemasters, Royal Optical, etc.). No claim forms are required; discounts are taken directly at the provider's place of business. Contact the Special Services Department at AMA Headquarters for full information. Enrollment is free to AMA members.
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
