The Aviators Model Code of Conduct is a set of model recommended practices designed to improve general aviation safety and airmanship.
Contents
Overview
Developed by a group of aviation professionals, the voluntary Aviators Model Code of Conduct (AMCC) "recommends operating practices to enhance the quality and safety" of general aviation flight operations. The AMCC provides a "solid list of behaviors that reflect the values, culture, and customs" pilots and mechanics should exercise as good aviation citizens, including:
The AMCC was designed to be adaptable by its implementers and currently consists of eight volumes:
The Flight Instructors Model Code of Conduct in particular has been embraced by the aviation education community. Retired airline captain and aviation author, Barry Schiff noted, "It is an outstanding document that belongs in every instructor's flight kit." Participants in the Master Instructor Continuing Education Program are required "to subscribe to and abide by an aviation educator's code of conduct" and are provided with examples that include three volumes of the AMCC. The Society of Aviation and Flight Educators provides links to several volumes of the AMCC in the Public Resource Center on its website. Additionally, the FAA introduces the AMCC in the "Instructor Responsibilities and Professionalism" chapter of its Aviation Instructor's Handbook.
Examples of the AMCC being promoted by and adapted to other sectors in general aviation include the Lake Elsinore Soaring Club, the Lancair Owners & Builders Organization, Gyroplane Aviators, and the Civil Air Patrol.
In January 2013, The Aviators Model Code of Conduct for Kids was released to "introduce students to what it takes to be a good pilot, to fly safely, and be a good passenger if they take a ride in a small plane." In June 2016, AMCC released Flight Safety in the Drone Age, offering safety guidance when operating near drones.
Permanent Editorial Board
This non-profit's volunteer Permanent Editorial Board (PEB) provides "oversight and stewardship of the Aviators Model Code of Conduct (Code of Conduct), various implementations of the Code of Conduct, and supporting materials." Current members include:
Structure
The AMCC consists of the following seven sections (each containing principles and sample recommended practices):
- General Responsibilities of Aviators
- Passengers and People on the Surface
- Training and Proficiency
- Security
- Environmental Issues
- Use of Technology
- Advancement and Promotion of General Aviation
For each aspect, the Code of Conduct covers governing principles (e.g., "minimize the discharge of fuel, oil, and other chemicals into the environment") and lays out specific practical recommendations (e.g., "Use a Gasoline Analysis Test Separator jar for all fuel sampling). Where applicable, sourced commentary is used to substantiate principles and recommendations.
Recognizing the need for early socialization, recommendations for integrating the Code of Conduct into flight training (including sample lesson plans) are collected in Notes For Instructors.
The Code of Conduct is intended to be specialized by aircraft operation and to evolve over time and place. Versions are available for: gliders, light-sport aircraft, seaplanes, student pilots, aircraft maintenance technicians, flight instructors, helicopters and youth aviators.
Foreign-language translations incorporate national and regionally-specific practices and regulations.
Notes for Prospective Implementers provides guidelines and resources for individuals and organizations adopting the Code of Conduct.
Flight Safety in the Drone Age is organized in five sections: (1) General Education and Preparation, (2) Preflight Operations, (3) In-flight Operations, (4) Post-flight Operations, and (5) Aviation Community.
Adoption
In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration includes links to the Code of Conduct in their list of online resources.
Other users and promoters of the Code of Conduct include major aircraft type clubs, air carriers, insurers, manufacturers, and other general aviation players, including: