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38LARGE model stuffRene RedmondLarge Model ControllerMFNZ Large Model Certification ProgramHow easy is to get my LM model Certified and how long does it take?Over the last few years as rules and regulations tumble down on top of us, I often get asked the value of the Large Model programme within MFNZ. Believe you me it%u2019s pivotal to us being legally allowed to fly heavy, high powered model aircraft.I for one have flown LM%u2019s particularly 15Kg plus for decades and for me they%u2019ve become mainstream aircraft that I enjoy flying the most.However, after speaking with many of you over the last 40 odd years as both a model shop owner and last 9 years as LM controller I understand some of your reluctance to having these rules imposed (by CAA not MFNZ) upon you.The truth of it is that the process of registering a LM, having it inspected and then a few simple test flights to prove the airframe, guidance and powerplant systems are fit for purpose and safe to be operated is not a big deal! In fact, the benefit to you as an owner is immense given the time and money spent bringing your project to life!Getting your model aircraft certified under the Model Flying New Zealand (MFNZ) Large Model Certification Program is a structured process that ensures your aircraft is safe to operate and complies with New Zealand's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) rules. The process involves several key steps and takes in total just a few hours:Step 1: Read the Large Model Code of Practice (LMCOP)A20%u201330-minute interesting read.The first and most important step is to thoroughly read the MFNZ Large Model Code of Practice. This document outlines all the standards, procedures, and safety requirements for large models. It's the definitive guide for everything from construction to flight testing and is essential for anyone entering the program.Step 2: Register Your Project on Form ATakes 10 minutes or less to complete!The certification process begins by registering your project with MFNZ. This is done by filling out Form A %u2013 Registration on the MFNZ website. You'll provide a few details about your model, whether it's a scratch-built, a kit, or an Almost-Ready-to-Fly (ARTF) model. Once your registration and payment are received, the MFNZ Large Model Controller will contact you with a unique project registration number.Step 3: Appointment of an InspectorLMC%u2019s problem, not yours!After your project is registered, the Large Model Controller will assign (or you can request) an inspector for your project. This inspector will be your point of contact and will guide you through the rest of the certification process. They will review your project's design and construction and assist you in meeting the LMCOP requirements.Step 4: Complete the Design and Construction Form B1-3hrs depending on type of aircraft.The next stage involves completing the specific construction forms for your aircraft type (Form B for Aeroplanes, Helicopters, or Gliders). This form documents the details of your model's build, including materials, power system, and radio equipment plus the mandatory redundant systems. Your assigned inspector will review and sign this form once they are satisfied with the aircraft.Step 5: Flight Testing & Documentation Form C30-40mins to 1.5hrs depending on categoryOnce your design and construction are approved, you can begin the flight testing phase.%u2022 Category 1 & 3: Require a minimum of five flights.%u2022 Category 2a: Requires a minimum of 1 hour of flight time.%u2022 Category 2b: Requires a minimum of 1.5 hours of flight time.Important: For Category 2 models, you must have a \Controller before you can begin any test flights. Once all the flight testing is completed and documented on the flight test log (Form C), your inspector will sign it off. You then submit the completed forms and flight logs to the Large Model Controller.Step 6: Get Your Pilot Wings Qualification (if not already held)Part of the Wings Programme.To be a certified large model pilot, you must hold an MFNZ Large Model (LM) wings qualification for the specific aircraft type. This qualification demonstrates