Originally Posted by
aymodeler
True, but I took Echo's meaning to be AMA chartered clubs have a monopoly on flying site, which may be true (to an extent)
The only reason that the majority of flying sites are affiliated with the AMA is for insurance. The majority of the ignorant and apathetic AMA membership believe that the AMA is the only option for insurance, and the AMA loves that dialogue, as it is the last remaining reason they have any relevance whatsoever.
In reality, insurance can be had for a reasonable price for all flying fields outside of the AMA. The more flying fields get together and develop a simple set of rules and adopt a safety code, the cheaper that insurance becomes. The insurance portion of our AMA dues accounts for a very small percentage of the dues, with the rest supporting Muncie facilities, staff and executive pay, the magazine, National events and teams, etc.
Astro