ORIGINAL: combatpigg
If the AMA was to provide the whole set-up ready to fly, then it would be THEIR program. Until that day comes about, they don't have a program. All they have is a policy.
It's OK for the insurance company to tell the AMA what the limit shall be, 1 flight is enough. It's not supposed to be a free training program. I'll bet the rule gets fudged daily with no dire consequences, but there still needs to be a rule established to appease the insurance company.
I'm not even sure I see a need for that, CP. The pilot with the master has control of the flight, and assuming that he's AMA, why should it matter how many times someone goes on the buddy box? They aren't in control. If the PIC's insurance is good for one flight why not 2, 5 or 15? IMO it's a local issue that the club should decide. As someone else says below.....rules that can't really be enforced are pretty much a waste of time.