Membership Policy

Effective date: January 1, 2026

This Membership Policy explains how membership works at Michiana Air Activities Flying Club (“MAA”), what is expected of members, and how we keep the club safe, fair, and enjoyable. It is intended to complement the MAA By-Laws, Policies & Procedures, and Member Handbook; if there is any conflict, the governing documents control.

1) Who We Are

MAA is a pilot-owned flying club based at Elkhart Municipal Airport (KEKM) and organized as a 501(c)(7) nonprofit. Membership means joining a community that values safety, proficiency, good stewardship of club aircraft, and the joy and freedom of flight. Members may participate as little or as much as they like, including volunteer roles, committees, and Board positions.

2) Membership Eligibility

Membership is open to qualified pilots and pilot-students who align with the club’s safety culture and operational standards. At a minimum, members must:

  • Provide accurate information during the application process.

  • Meet any required pilot certificate, medical (if applicable), flight review, and currency requirements for their intended operations.

  • Complete any club onboarding steps and aircraft checkouts required prior to acting as PIC in club aircraft.

MAA may limit membership based on fleet availability, operational capacity, or other club needs.

3) How to Apply

Prospective members submit a Membership Application and any additional information requested for onboarding and safety review (e.g., pilot history/training background). A representative of the club may contact the applicant to clarify information, discuss expectations, and outline next steps. Acceptance is subject to club approval, completion of required paperwork, and satisfaction of any onboarding requirements.You can control cookies through your browser settings; disabling cookies may affect certain site features. Where available, we will honor opt-out mechanisms provided by analytics vendors (for example, opt-out browser add-ons or settings).

4) Dues, Fees, and Financial Responsibilities

Members are responsible for paying any dues, initiation fees, assessments, or hourly charges as established by the club. Members agree to:

  • Pay charges on time and keep their account in good standing.

  • Fly and operate club aircraft in a way that minimizes avoidable costs and protects the value of club assets.

  • Report issues promptly to prevent bigger maintenance problems later.

Failure to remain in good standing may result in suspension of scheduling/flight privileges until resolved.

5) Onboarding, Training, and Aircraft Checkout

Before acting as PIC, members must complete the club’s onboarding requirements and any required aircraft checkout(s). This may include:

  • A review of club safety expectations, scheduling standards, and operational procedures.

  • Completion of required signoffs, proficiency checks, and/or transition training as applicable to the aircraft.

  • Demonstrated competence with relevant avionics and systems as appropriate for safe operation.

Members are expected to maintain personal proficiency and to pursue additional instruction when needed.

6) Safety, Proficiency, and Currency Expectations

Safety and continuing education are core to MAA. Members are expected to:

  • Operate within their personal minimums and within club and FAA requirements.

  • Maintain legal currency and proficiency appropriate to the mission (day/night, IFR, cross-country, etc.).

  • Use checklists and sound risk management on every flight.

  • Speak up early if conditions, aircraft status, or personal readiness suggest delaying or canceling a flight.

MAA supports a “no-ego” safety culture: good decisions are respected.

7) Scheduling and Aircraft Use Standards

Members agree to follow club scheduling rules and to be considerate of other members’ access to aircraft. Expectations include:

  • Reserving aircraft accurately and promptly updating reservations when plans change.

  • Returning aircraft on time and in agreed condition for the next member.

  • Following club requirements for refueling, cleaning, securing, and postflight steps.

  • Respecting cross-country/multi-day use guidelines so access remains fair.

Abuse of scheduling privileges or repeated late returns may result in corrective action.

8) Aircraft Care, Squawks, and Maintenance Reporting

Because every member is a partial owner, stewardship matters. Members must:

  • Conduct thorough preflight and postflight inspections.

  • Record discrepancies (“squawks”) promptly and clearly using the club’s process.

  • Take aircraft out of service when an airworthiness concern exists and notify the appropriate club contact.

Knowingly operating an aircraft with an unaddressed safety issue is not acceptable.

9) Member Conduct and Club Culture

MAA is a community. Members are expected to treat others with respect and contribute to a positive environment at meetings, on the ramp, and in communications. Harassment, discrimination, intimidation, or unsafe pressure of any kind is not tolerated. Members also agree to represent the club responsibly in public and online.

10) Meetings, Guests, and Family Participation

Club meetings are open to family members and prospective members. Members may invite guests as permitted by club practice, with the understanding that safety and operational integrity come first. Any passenger/participant requirements (such as waivers) must be followed when applicable.

11) Volunteer Involvement and Leadership

MAA depends on member participation to thrive. Members may volunteer in roles, serve on committees, or pursue Board/officer positions as opportunities are available. Participation is encouraged but not mandatory—members can choose their level of involvement while still honoring club expectations for safety and stewardship.

12) Policy Violations, Suspension, and Termination

MAA may take action when a member’s behavior creates safety risk, financial risk, or undermines club operations. Corrective actions may include coaching, retraining requirements, temporary suspension of privileges, or termination of membership consistent with governing documents. The club will strive to be fair, consistent, and safety-first in handling issues.

13) Privacy and Member Information

MAA will use member information primarily for club operations (communications, scheduling administration, billing, safety and compliance). Member data will be handled in accordance with the club’s Privacy Policy and applicable law. Members should avoid sharing other members’ personal information without permission.

14) Changes to This Policy

This Membership Policy may be updated as the club evolves. Updates will be communicated to members, and the most current version will be maintained in the club’s official documents area.

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