An essential part of the Fern the Prairie Modelers (FPM) safety program is a requirement for those club members wishing to use the club field, without the assistance of an FPM designated instructor pilot, to demonstrate a minimum level of knowledge and skill in the operation of a model airplane. To guide the implementation of this important part of the safety program, the following pilot categories and proficiency requirements have been established:

Student Pilot
FPM pilots who do not yet have sufficient skill and experience
to safely operate their models without help and supervision.

Pilot
FPM pilots who have demonstrated to an FPM designated instructor
that they can operate their model safely and without supervision.

Instructor Pilot
FPM club members who have been designated and approved by FPM
club officers to assist student pilots in acquiring the skills and knowledge
necessary to meet the FPM proficiency requirements.

Knowledge and understanding
* AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code
* Frequency control
* FPM special field rules
* Flight line etiquette
* Emergency procedures (dead engine, radio problems, landing priorities, etc.)
* Airplane characteristics, engine operation, control system sufficient to recognize and correct common problems

Demonstrated Proficiency
* Safely start and launch airplane
* Fly parallel with the runway in both directions
* Make left and right hand turns
* Safely land model, exit the runway and turn off engine