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Lake Sawyer Hawks Lake Sawyer Hawks

Field Rules & Safety Regulations

Operating guidelines for Marlow Anderson R/C Airfield. All pilots and guests are expected to follow these rules at all times.

Overview Pre-flight Field Rules Best Practices

Field Overview

Runway
North–South
Approx. 400 ft grass
Flight Ceiling
700 ft
Per field guidelines
Power
12V / 24V
Charging stations on-site

The Marlow Anderson R/C Airfield is home to the Lake Sawyer Hawks — an AMA-chartered, FRIA-approved site for safe, electric-only RC flying just east of Maple Valley, WA. The field features a grass runway, pit area, pilot stations, and spectator seating.

  • Runway: North–South, approx. 400 ft grass
  • Elevation: ~600 ft above sea level
  • Flight Ceiling: 700' per field operating guidelines
  • Power: 12V and 24V charging stations
  • Restrooms: Portable unit maintained by the club
  • Parking: Gravel lot west of pits
  • Access: Members lock the gate on arrival/leaving
Get Directions

Tip: Use Satellite view when visiting for the first time — the gate and parking lot are easier to spot.

Quick Checklist Before You Fly

These cover the most common issues that create unsafe moments on the flightline.

1

Pre-flight Check

Verify control direction, linkages, prop security, battery, and range before each flight.

2

Call Your Moves

Announce takeoffs, landings, and dead-stick so others can react accordingly.

3

Fly the Pattern

Stay in front of the pits, within the fence line, and predictable to other pilots.

Field Rules & Regulations

These rules keep flying safe, respectful, and enjoyable for everyone at the Marlow Anderson R/C Airfield. All pilots and guests are expected to follow them at all times.

General Safety & Conduct

Rules 1–13
  1. 1 Safety is the first priority. Do not fly in a reckless or dangerous manner.
  2. 2 No smoking anywhere within the fenced area.
  3. 3 No fires of any kind within the fenced area.
  4. 4 No alcohol or intoxicants on the premises at any time.
  5. 5 No hate or offensive markings on RC aircraft.
  6. 6 Maximum model weight: 20 lbs.
  7. 7 Current AMA membership required for all pilots.
  8. 8 Lake Sawyer Hawks members only unless flying as a guest of a member.
  9. 9 New members must demonstrate proficiency before solo flight.
  10. 10 Stay within fenced area all flights must remain inside Anderson Field.
  11. 11 No flying behind the pits intentional flight in this area is prohibited.
  12. 12 Range check & inspection required for all new, repaired, or modified aircraft.
  13. 13 FAA & AMA identification must be displayed on aircraft as required.

Flight Operations & Equipment

Rules 14–25
  1. 14 Max 4 aircraft flying simultaneously.
  2. 15 One pilot per station spotters are encouraged.
  3. 16 East–west runway: takeoffs only main runway: takeoffs and landings.
  4. 17 Announce intentions "Taking off," "Landing," "Dead stick," "On the runway."
  5. 18 Yield to full-scale aircraft avoid them at all times.
  6. 19 Spectators & pets remain west of pits or in the parking area.
  7. 20 Electric only no internal combustion engines.
  8. 21 79 dB at 25 feet sound limit for electric aircraft.
  9. 22 Shut down motors near pilot stations no taxiing into pits.
  10. 23 Pack it in, pack it out clean up your area.
  11. 24 Pilot financial responsibility for any damage caused by your aircraft.
  12. 25 No overnight camping.

Last updated:

Best Practices from the RC Community

Across the RC community, clubs emphasize proactive safety measures. Here are highlights drawn from organizations nationwide.

👥
Spotters & Wingmen

A spotter adds situational awareness — watching for full-scale aircraft, wildlife, or incoming models. Many clubs require this during busy times.

🔄
Consistent Flight Patterns

Establishing one direction (clockwise or counter-clockwise based on wind) reduces collisions and keeps traffic predictable.

🚫
Respect No-Fly Zones

Avoid flying over the pits, spectator areas, roads, or neighboring properties. Boundaries protect people, property, and club reputation.

📋
Incident Reporting

If a mishap occurs, report it to the club's Safety Officer or a board member. Sharing lessons helps refine procedures.

🤝
Community Awareness

Keep noise down, fly responsibly, and assist new visitors. A positive club image preserves our flying privileges.

✅
Pre-Flight & Range Checks
  • • Test all control surfaces for correct direction and range
  • • Inspect connectors, linkages, and propellers
  • • Perform a range check before first flight of the day
  • • Confirm proper model selection on your transmitter

Ready to fly at Marlow Anderson Field?

Review our club requirements and safety rules, then come out and enjoy a day of flying with the Lake Sawyer Hawks.

Club Requirements New to RC? Start Here