. All BMFA Members

Model flying and the COVID-19 Virus  – News Release 17-3-2020

We have been monitoring the current situation carefully and have been awaiting clear guidance from the Government before making decisions relating to general model flying and BMFA Model flying events, contests and roadshows.

It is clear that the COVID-19 situation is developing rapidly in the UK and members should keep themselves updated on current government and NHS advice.  Please see  https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response  for the latest information.

Members are advised to follow the precautions provided by the NHS at all times details of which you can find here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

Model Flying in the club environment

In general terms model flying represents a low risk activity due to the predominantly outdoor nature of the activity and the opportunity to maintain inter-personal separation.

At this time, and subject to any updated government advice/instruction, for those who are not unwell there is little reason to curtail outdoor model flying activities in the club environment. The well-being benefits provided by model flying should be balanced by the potential risk and NHS precautions should be followed.

While there is little reason to curtail normal outdoor flying activities, clubs should consider what action to take regarding indoor club meetings and any proposed or scheduled larger events they have planned which, under present guidance, may have to be cancelled or postponed.

BMFA Organised events, contests and roadshows

The BMFA is currently reviewing the status of scheduled events.  Several events/contests are already subject to cancellation including the Swapmeet at BMFA Buckminster, the ASRC Roadshows and the Free Flight Nationals.  Planning for the Power Nationals in August is continuing on the assumption that it will be going ahead, but this will be kept under review.

Members should keep checking the Contest and Event calendar on the BMFA website for status updates on specific contests and events.  Should contest/event organisers wish to amend/update their entries on the BMFA Calendar, please contact the office or complete the online request form here: https://e-forms.bmfa.org/event-amend.

BMFA Office

The BMFA Office functions will remain in operation, though the office may not be physically staffed to the usual level and we regret that for the time being we are no longer able to welcome visits from BMFA Members. We have measures in place to ensure that support for members and clubs continues. Please use admin@bmfa.org as the primary means of contact.

Important note:- Please stay at home and do not attend flying sessions, events, contests or meetings if:

• you have been in contact with a COVID-19 patient
• you are unwell, with a high temperature and/or a new continuous cough
• you have serious underlying health issues 

Kind Regards
All at the BMFA

Tel: 0116 2440028
email:  admin@bmfa.org 

All indoor sports are being cancelled at Holy Family School with immediate effect by Bradford Council.

They have assured us that we will be notified when the hall becomes available.

Please pass this on to anyone not social media.

Kind Regards
Charlie Lee

The Committee have come to a decision that for the safety of our members we will be suspending the monthly meetings at the Parkside Social Club starting with the April meeting. This is regrettable but I hope you all understand our reasoning.

The Indoor Flying sessions are under review and once we have clarification from the Council we will let you know.

Outdoor flying on the Moor will go ahead as usual as this is deemed a low risk activity.

If you have any queries regarding the above please contact a committee member and we will try our best to help you.

Kind Regards
Charlie Lee

Provisional calendar is now available if you would like to add to this please let me know.

With the current wet weather dragging on & on I think the time has come to get the simulator out to keep the skills levels at a reasonable level. If you would like to do the same or even as new flyer get the skills without the risk of damaging your pride and joy.

Phoenix simulator was one of the best if not the best, but since going out of business we thought that would be it. But its now reappeared as a free download though a website called rc-thoughts.com CLICK HERE to view the simulator plus other model related useful software.

You will also need some hardware for this, there is some currently available for most TX’s for around £20 on amazon CLICK HERE

If you haven’t renewed your membership for 2020 and wish to take part in any of our activities before the next club meeting, please feel free to renew through our online service. Click Here Once payment is received with us you’re registered with the BMFA and insured. Remember if your bmfa membership has not been paid your not insured.

Unless you fly control line or indoor you will need to be CAA registered, we can help you with this if needed.

Following Saturday’s AGM, 2020 BMFA fees will remain unchanged from their current level.

Senior – £38
Junior – £17
Family Senior – £38
Family Partner – £25
Family Junior – £13

2020 membership will be available from the 1st of December.

For 2020 we will be introducing a new optional BMFA membership card, this will be a plastic credit card sized card and comes with the option to sign up to BMFA Rewards which gives you the chance to make savings at many UK retailers, restaurants, cinemas, hotels etc. Potentially members can save hundreds each year for the extra cost of just £3.50

Click Here for more information

Sample Card

The Quick Start Guide contains everything BMFA members need to know about the upcoming registration scheme and help them pass the BMFA’s competency test, should they be required to.