Lake Sawyer Hawks Lake Sawyer Hawks
Marlow Anderson Field • Hobart, WA

Lake Sawyer Hawks

A welcoming community of RC pilots with a great field and a strong safety culture. New to the hobby? We’ll help you get comfortable and get in the air.

Field Rules & Safety Regulations

Operating guidelines for Marlow Anderson R/C Airfield (Lake Sawyer Hawks).

Marlow Anderson R/C Airfield

Lake Sawyer Hawks Field Overview

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.

Runway
North–South
Approx. 400 ft grass runway
Flight Ceiling
700 ft
Per field operating guidelines
Power & Facilities
12V / 24V
Charging stations, portable restroom, gravel parking

Field Overview

The field is located just east of Maple Valley, WA. It features a grass runway, pit area, pilot stations, and spectator seating. The site is AMA-chartered and FRIA-approved for safe recreational flight.

  • Runway Orientation: North–South, approx. 400 ft.
  • Elevation: ~600 ft above sea level
  • Power: 12-volt and 24-volt charging stations
  • Restrooms: Portable unit maintained by the club
  • Parking: Gravel lot west of pits
  • Access: Members must lock the gate upon arrival/leaving
  • Flight Area: 700' flight ceiling

Find Us Here

Marlow Anderson R/C Airfield

Get Directions

Tip: Use "Satellite" view when visiting for the first time — it makes the gate and parking lot easy 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 & Safety Regulations

These rules help 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

  1. Safety is the first priority. Do not fly in a reckless or dangerous manner.
  2. No smoking anywhere within the fenced area.
  3. No fires of any kind within the fenced area.
  4. No alcohol or intoxicants on the premises at any time.
  5. RC aircraft may not display hate or offensive markings.
  6. Maximum model weight: 20 pounds.
  7. All pilots must hold current AMA membership.
  8. Only current Lake Sawyer Hawks members may fly, unless a guest of a member.
  9. New members must demonstrate proficiency before solo flight.
  10. All flights must remain within the fenced area of Anderson Field.
  11. Intentional flying behind the pits is prohibited.
  12. All new, repaired, or modified aircraft must be range-checked and inspected before flight.
  13. Aircraft must display FAA and AMA identification as required.

Flight Operations & Equipment

  1. Maximum of four aircraft may be flown simultaneously.
  2. Only one pilot per station; spotters are encouraged.
  3. East–west runway: takeoffs only. Main runway: takeoffs and landings.
  4. Pilots must announce intentions: "Taking off," "Landing," "Dead stick," "On the runway."
  5. Yield to and avoid full-scale aircraft at all times.
  6. Spectators and pets must remain west of the pits or in the parking area.
  7. All powered aircraft must be electric only — no internal combustion engines.
  8. Electric aircraft sound limit: 79 dB at 25 feet.
  9. Motors must be shut down near the flight station — no taxiing into pits.
  10. Clean up your area — if you pack it in, pack it out.
  11. Pilots are financially responsible for any damages caused by their aircraft.
  12. No overnight camping.

Last Updated:

Best Practices from the RC Community

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

👥

Spotters / Wingmen

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

🔄

Consistent Flight Patterns

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

🚫

No-Fly Zones

Avoid flying over the pits, spectator areas, roads, or neighboring properties. Staying within boundaries protects people, property, and club reputation.

✅

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
📋

Incident Reporting

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

🤝

Community Awareness

Maintain good relations with nearby residents — keep noise down, fly responsibly, and assist new visitors courteously. A positive club image preserves our flying privileges.

Ready to fly at Marlow Anderson Field?

Make sure you've reviewed our club requirements and safety rules, then come out and enjoy a day of flying with the Lake Sawyer Hawks.

View Club Requirements New to RC? Start Here