Why It Matters
The Hobby Has a Living Archive
Historic aircraft, design artifacts, photographs, and research material show that model aviation is not just a pastime. It is a craft with lineage, experimentation, and shared knowledge.
Start flying with more confidence
Discover model aviation through local clubs, practical guidance, and a community built around safe, responsible flying. Whether you are brand new or ready to get back in the air, AMA can help you find your next step.
Explore how to get started
How AMA Membership Helps
Membership is less about a single perk and more about giving new and experienced flyers a better support system: guidance, advocacy, resources, and ways to stay connected to the hobby.
Liability Insurance
- ✓ Liability coverage for operation of remote-controlled model aircraft, boats, cars and rockets
- ✓ Liability protection designed for model aviation activities
- ✓ Accident and medical support options for members
- ✓ Additional member coverage details available through AMA
- ✓ Coverage information you can review before joining
Educational Programs & Scholarships
- ✓ Access to AMA Flight School
- ✓ Online learning opportunities for all ages
- ✓ Youth and student mentorship and education opportunities
- ✓ Scholarship programs
Mentorship & Advocacy
- ✓ Access to a broad community of flyers across many disciplines
- ✓ Security of having AMA as a liaison with several local, state and federal government entities
- ✓ Access to AMA-recognized Special Interest Groups
- ✓ Support from AMA staff and volunteers dedicated to model aviation
- ✓ General club and member support and sponsorship
Flying Clubs & Fields
- ✓ Access to AMA clubs across the country
- ✓ Access to a wide network of flying fields and club sites
- ✓ Hands-on flying site assistance and grant programs
Safe & Responsible Flying
- ✓ Promoting safe and responsible flying under the direction of the AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code
- ✓ Recognition as a community-based organization
- ✓ Education and guidance on federal, state and local flying regulations
Print & Online Resources
- ✓ Access to a broad range of model aviation news and publications, including quarterly and monthly magazines, email newsletters, webinars and more
- ✓ Access to online resources and members-only content
Find a Club Near You
Discover local AMA clubs and flying sites, then connect with people who can help you learn, practice, and fly with confidence.
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Club data provided by the Academy of Model Aeronautics (opens in new tab).
See What DiscoverFlight Is About
Watch a quick introduction to the hobby, the community behind it, and the kinds of flying experiences new members can explore.
Academy of Model Aeronautics Why Flyers Choose AMA
A stronger start in model aviation comes from trusted guidance, real places to fly, and a community that helps you keep learning.
- Decades of model aviation experience and leadership
- Nationwide club connections and flying communities
- Guidance for safer, more responsible flying
- Hands-On support from experienced flyers and local mentors
- Opportunity to learn, connect, compete, and keep growing in the hobby
Explore Membership Options (opens in new tab) Then connect with a club and build your path into model aviation.
Museum
Model Aviation Has a Story
AMA also stewards the National Model Aviation Museum, where aircraft, archives, and exhibits help tell the story of how model aviation has evolved across generations of builders and flyers.
Alongside the museum itself, the museum blog and digital collections make it easier to explore featured artifacts, new additions, exhibit updates, and searchable records from the collection.
Exhibits & Collections
Explore exhibits, featured artifacts, and digital collection records that make the history of model aviation easier to see and understand.
Stories & Updates
Follow the museum blog for artifact stories, new additions, exhibit news, and a closer look at the people behind the collection.
Membership FAQs
AMA offers membership options for different ages and situations. For the most current pricing and membership categories, visit the official membership page before you sign up.
Entry-level aircraft can be approachable for beginners, while more advanced setups can cost much more. A local club or hobby shop can help you choose gear that fits your goals and budget.
AMA supports a range of model aviation interests and helps members understand where and how to fly responsibly. Your best next step is to review the current safety guidance and talk with a nearby club about local flying opportunities.
There are many benefits to joining a club, including hands-on instruction, exposure to other facets of the hobby, and camaraderie with and mentorship from other members.
In most cases, yes. Before buying anything, talk with experienced flyers at a club or hobby shop so you can choose equipment that matches your interests, skill level, and flying environment. A simulator can also be a useful way to practice before your first flights.
Start by exploring the club finder and membership information on this page, then visit the AMA membership page (opens in new tab) when you are ready to join.
Want Help Getting Started?
Sign up to hear from the AMA team and get pointed toward the right next step for your interests.
Thanks for signing up!
We will use your information to help you explore clubs, membership, and beginner-friendly next steps.
Ready to go further? Explore current membership options. (opens in new tab)
Media Room
Looking for press information, interviews, or official AMA media resources?
AMA Foundation
Support the programs, outreach, and educational efforts that help more people discover model aviation and stay connected to the community.
Visit the AMA Foundation (opens in new tab)