The Anatomy of Flying Clubs
By definition clubs are bonded together by a common special interest, which club members all commonly share. Flying clubs are basically no different, as Flying clubs are basically organizations which permit members to take part in flying activities, the special interest with bring members together into flying clubs.
Also referred to as aero clubs, flying clubs usually are populated by members who rent aircrafts in pursuing their active interest for flying airplanes. On a general note, most flying clubs also provide flight training for members and aspiring members, pilot supplies, access to flight planning facilities and equipment and other flying associated services and requirements. Fling clubs are also responsible for organizing social functions like fly-outs and fly-ins from one airport to another.
Though on a general scale, flying clubs are participated by those who see flying as a hobby many commercial pilots are members of flying clubs, seeing these entities as avenues for them to "hang out" with flying enthusiasts, friends and peers. When talking about the types of flying clubs, there are generally two types of flying clubs; the Equity Flying Clubs and the Non-Equity Flying Clubs.
Equity Flying Clubs
Basically, an Equity Flying Club is one where members each contribute a financial sum, in support for the flying club's goals, activities and orientation. In most cases, Equity Flying Club members have to "buy" into the club, contributing to the maintenance and operation of aircrafts, insurance fees, and hangar fees.
Bottom line, with equity flying clubs, members own shares of whatever assets, as well as the responsibilities which come with owning such assets, an Equity Flying Club has.
Non-Equity Flying Clubs
Non-Equity Flying Clubs differ from Equity Flying Clubs in the sense that Non-Equity Flying Club members don't own a share ownership of an aircraft. Non-equity Flying Club members don't necessarily have to pay as much as members of Equity Flying Clubs, but do still have initiation fees, monthly fees, and other hourly related fees, in reference to aircraft rental fees.
It isn't exactly surprising to note that most Flying Clubs base themselves ne
ar airports, either in suburban or urban populated areas, mostly airports which are away from major airplane hubs. In Canada, flying clubs take on the role of non-profit organizations, which actually operate airports. Some of these Canadian flying clubs have been in operation since 1920, and are actively operating large and small airports, as well, standing as testaments to just how far flying clubs could actually soar.
