Online Membership Application

"*" indicates required fields

Step 1 of 12 - Membership Class Selection

Before you begin, please ensure you have reviewed the applicable membership fees from By-laws Addendum A

Desired Membership Class*

Flying

Non-Flying

This field is hidden when viewing the form

Flying membership type*

An "Introductory membership" is for those who believe they will be seeking a long-term membership with the club in the future, but are not yet ready to commit to a full membership without first flying our aircraft.

Important: An introductory membership should NOT be used if you do not have the intention to likely continue with our club later, such as if you're just in town for a few days and want to rent a local aircraft, or if you just want to fly one time and not continue any further. For these types of services, you should seek out an FBO or independent flight instructor.

Membership applications submitted with the apparent intention being only to gain short term access to club resources will be declined.

Full flying member

Introductory flying meber

This field is hidden when viewing the form

Introductory Membership*

An introductory membership shall have a lifespan not exceeding one month from the date of membership approval. An introductory membership can only be activated once per person. Introductory members do not have a vote. An introductory membership shall allow the introductory member to rent the club aircraft so long as a club approved flight instructor is on board with them. During the introductory membership period, an introductory member may not exceed a total of 3 cumulative hours of usage of club aircraft. Introductory members must pre-pay for all aircraft usage and any club dues prior to each usage of aircraft. Introductory members do not have a vote. Provided that the member is deemed suitable for a full membership at the end of the introductory period, and that the membership has not been explicitly cancelled through the proper method prior to the end of the introductory period, an introductory membership shall convert to a full flying membership, and the member shall owe any and all applicable club dues and fees, even if the membership is subsequently cancelled. For more information about club dues and fees, please see by-laws addendum A.

I agree

Note: You can stop and restart this application at any time by using the "Save and Continue Later" link at the bottom of each page.

Important: Please read ALL OF this information before continuing your application.

The Brookings Flying Club is a non-profit flying club. We are NOT an FBO. We are a group of people who have come together to better eachothers experience in the world of aviation in ways that many of us would not be able to do alone, through programs such as our rental aircraft, fuel system, and scholarship program.
So, please understand - do not expect the club to provide a "service" to you like a for-profit FBO. You are not our customer, you are our member.
Membership in a flying club means that we expect you to actively participate when able. This entails things such as: Showing up to meetings and events, offering your opinions, and more.
We also expect you to help out when you can. This includes things like volunteering for projects and event support, but also includes little things like washing the airplane when it's dirty after you fly it or emptying a trash can in the hangar or fuel shack if it's full, and not expecting compensation in return.
The Brookings Flying Club has no paid employees.. And organization like ours depends on a lifeblood of members who help keep it alive through active participation and volunteering. It's only through our members efforts that we are able to continue to exist.
None of this is to say we expect you to dedicate all of your free time to helping the club, but what we do mean to say is:

If you are looking for a simple money for services exchange, a flying club is not for you.

That being said, the Brookings Flying Club has been active in our community and very successful since the mid 20th century.
We truly believe that our organization is one of the best ways for locals to get involved with aviation and the local aviation community.

So, whether you're just starting out as a student pilot or already have 10,000+ hours under your belt, we hope that you're able to join us, and we sincerely look forward to working with you wherever your path in aviation takes you.

If you have fully read, understand, and agree, please continue.

Understanding of requirement of active participation and contribution*

I understand that I will be expected to actively participate in and contibute to the club in the ways in which I am reasonably able to do so.

Type "I agree to participate" in the box below to continue your application*

We're serious about volunteerism. We're looking for members who will help keep our club going into the future. Please review the information below carefully and provide your answers.

Please select 1-3 club committee(s) which you are interested in volunteering for*

Club committees meet regularly and each have certain volunteer tasks associated with them. You aren't restricted to only volunteering in committees which you are a member of, but we ask that you choose 1-3 to focus on based on your interests and skill set.
Even if you live out of the area, you will be expected to participate and contribute remotely at a minimum to the committees you choose.

Youth aviation committee - Helps run the club's youth aviation programs

Meetings committee - Helps plan and execute club general meetings / all-member events/parties

Fuel committee - Helps operate and ensure safety, quality, and availability of club fuel facilities

Aircraft maintenance - Helps make sure club aircraft are maintained and upgraded safely and effectively in accordance with FAA regulations, best practices, and club needs/goals.

Facilities commitee - Helps ensure club facilities are maintained, clean, organized, welcoming, and appealing.

Safety/Security Commitee - Observes and investigates safety and security related matters, makes recommendations, and helps the board take action to ensure safety and security both on the ground in club facilities and in the air for club pilots.

Airport Day committee - Helps plan and execute our flagship annual public outreach and fundraising event, Airport Day

Flying Membership Volunteerism*

As a flying member, I understand that I am only a part time user of the club's plane, and I agree to return it after each rental in accordance with club policies in a condition which is clean and safe for the next member. This may mean that after a rental which the plane gets dirty, I may have to stay at the airport to wash and/or vacuum the plane (or similar) after I use it to ensure it's ready for the next person to use.

I understand and agree. I know that I have to help take care of the club's airplane in order to use it, in addition to other club volunteerism.

All Membership Volunteerism*

Club members are ALL expected to regularly visit the airport and club functions, and contribute to the ongoing success of the club. Even if it means something simple, like taking out the hangar trash when it's full, cleaning windows, or stepping up when a call for volunteers goes out.

I understand

Cover Letter

Have you ever been in a flying club before?*

Yes

Please introduce yourself and tell us a little about why you'd like to be in the Brookings Flying Club*

In your letter, after introducing yourself and letting us know why you'd like to join, please be sure to include the ways in which you feel you may be able to contribute to our club, such as by attending meetings and volunteering to help at club events. We are seeking applicants of all ages and aviation experience levels, but favor applicants who show a desire to actively participate in our club.

Please note: This cover letter is a big part of our consideration process for whether or not to accept a member. Please be sure you covered each of the points we mentioned above.

Membership notices

Membership for single person only*

Please note: Only a single person is entitled to the privileges of a Brookings Flying Club membership. Spouses and family members are typically welcome to attend club functions with a member, but aircraft rental and other club functions require a club membership specific to the person in question.

I understand that only the person named in this application is applying for membership in the Brookings Flying Club and agree to the above.

Membership not available for corporations*

Only individuals may become members of the Brookings Flying Club and utilize its services. Membership is not open to corporations or other business entities. Joining as an individual and passing membership benefits to a corporation is also prohibited.

This membership is for the use of an individual, not a corporation or other business entity.

Electronic Billing Only*

Brookings Flying Club has transitioned to a fully paperless billing system for new members. You will be required to check your email for any invoices from the club, and make payments using the club's online system, which accepts ACH or credit cards. New members will be required to pay invoices upon receipt. Once a good payment history has been built with the club, you may request 30 day payment terms from the Board of Directors. See bylaws addendum A for more info.

I understand and agree that I will receive my Brookings Flying Club bills electronically and must make payments using the approved electronic system

Smart Device Required*

Brookings Flying Club uses many digital systems to enhance our club. Some operations, such as aircraft rental, door unlocking, and club member communication may require the use of a smartphone or wifi-connected tablet in order to complete required tasks. If you do not have a device like this, you will be unable to access club services. The club is under no obligation to provide accommodations to those who do not have an adequate device. Some of these services will be provided by third parties, including without limitation Ubiquiti (UniFi Identity) and Discord. You understand that use of these third party services may be required in order to access privileges of this membership, and these apps may require permission on your smart device including without limitation access to bluetooth, location services, and network access in accordance with the Club's privacy policy and those policies of the aforementioned third party providers.

I have a smartphone or tablet with internet connection, and understand that I will be required to use it in order to access some club services.

Applicant Information

Name*

First Middle Last

How should we address you?

Physical Address*

Street Address Address Line 2 City State ZIP Code

Mailing Address*

Same as previous

Street Address Address Line 2 City State ZIP Code

Have you moved in the last year?*

Yes

Previous Address*

Street Address Address Line 2 City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code

Phone*

10-digit phone number

Email*

Enter Email Confirm Email

Communication*

I consent to receiving email communications from the BFC

Date of Birth*

Please note: Those under the age of 18 require special approval. Please contact the Brookings Flying Club Board of Directors on the "contact the club" page before applying if you are under the age of 18.

Month

Day

Year

Employment Information

Employment Status*

Employed

Unemployed

Retired

Occupation*

Employer*

Employer Address*

Street Address Address Line 2 City State ZIP Code

Manager's Name*

Business Phone*

Note: The BFC may call to verify employment and other information.

References

You must provide at least once reference.

More references will improve your odds of approval.

Personal Local Reference

First Last

A "Personal Local Reference" is someone who lives in the area that you know well (preferably, outside of family, work, or business dealings). A good example might be a current club member who referred you. The club may contact this person to verify information.

Personal Local Reference Phone

Business Reference 1

A business reference (other than your employer) can be any business you have worked with, so long as you have their permission to list them. The club may contact this business to verify information.

Business Reference 1 Phone

Business Reference 2

A business reference (other than your employer) can be any business you have worked with, so long as you have their permission to list them. The club may contact this business to verify information.

Business Reference 2 Phone

Previous flying club memberships*

Click (+) to add another row

Club name

Location

Years membership held (eg, 2005-2010)

Extra positions held, if any

If you are a part of any other community organizations, boards, or clubs around our area, please list them here. Otherwise, you can leave this section blank.

This section can be left blank.

Organization

Position

Years (eg, 2005-2010)

Emergency Contact

Emergency Contact Name*

First Last

Emergency Contact Phone*

Flying Member Information

Which best describes you?*

If you hold a CFI rating, you must select "CFI", regardless of your intent to use it.

Do you currently have an FAA-issued student pilot certificate?*

Yes

Have you received an FAA 3rd class medical or better yet?*

We suggest but do not require all students obtain a medical certificate before joining the club. There are many reasons the FAA could deny a medical, which would stop you from getting a pilots license. To save you money, we suggest you get your 3rd class medical before joining. You can join without one, though.

I have a medical certificate

I don't have a medical certificate, but acknoweldge the statement above

Do you wish to provide flight instruction in club aircraft?*

Yes

Unsure

Pilot Certificate Number(s)*

Separate multiple certificate numbers with commas.

Ratings Held

Total Time*

Time last 90 days*

Date of Last Medical*

Month

Day

Year

Medical Expiration*

Month

Day

Year

Date of last Flight Review (or Checkride)*

Month

Day

Year

BFR Currency Expiration Date*

Month

Day

Year

Has an FAA certificate issued to you ever been suspended or revoked?*

Yes

Please explain.*

Have you, as Pilot in Command, ever been in an accident?*

Yes

Please explain.*

Document Collection

Please scan/photograph and upload your government-issued Photo ID (front and back)*

The ID should show an address matching what appears on your application and your background check. If you are an existing pilot, it should also match what the FAA has on file for you.

Drop files here or

Accepted file types: jpg, jpeg, heic, gif, png, pdf, tiff, Max. file size: 15 MB, Max. files: 2.

Does the address on your ID match where you currently live, and what you've provided on your application to us, as well as what may exist on the FAA pilot registry (if applicable)?*

Yes

No (please explain)

Please explain why your address does not match*

Upload additional documents (Optional)

If you wish to speed up the processing of your application, please include copies of your pilot's certificate, medical, and latest flight review endorsement, if applicable. CFIs should also include their latest completion certificate for TSA SA training. If you don't include these documents with your application, we may ask for a copy from you next time you're at a club meeting. If you don't know what some of these things are, you're probably a new pilot - that's fine.

Drop files here or

Accepted file types: jpg, jpeg, heic, png, tif, tiff, pdf, Max. file size: 15 MB, Max. files: 5.

Document Collection - TSA Compliant

Because you don't have a student pilot certificate, and you want to fly our plane, the government wants us to collect some extra information from you. We apologize if it's repetitive or annoying.

Privacy notice: The club may share the information and documents you submit in this section with any club-approved CFI which you choose to receive training from in a club aircraft.

Are you at least 16 years old?*

Yes

WARNING: While you will still be able to take flight lessons, you will be unable to solo an aircraft or get your license until you are at least 16.

Can you read, speak, and understand English?*

Yes

Are you a US Citizen?*

Yes

Based on your answers, it's likely we will not be able to allow you to receive flight training in our aircraft without special arrangements. If this message is unexpected, please save your application progress to continue later using the button on the bottom of the page, and contact us for more info before continuing.

Select proof of citizenship and identity to upload*

Please scan/photograph and upload a copy of your Valid, unexpired US passport*

Max. file size: 15 MB.

Please scan/photograph and upload a copy of your original or government-issued birth certificate*

Max. file size: 15 MB.

Please scan/photograph and upload a copy of our original certificate of birth abroad with raised seal (Form FS-545 or DS-1350)*

Max. file size: 15 MB.

Please scan/photograph and upload your original certificate of US citizenship with raised seal (Form N-560 or N-561) or a Certificate of Repatriation (Form N-581)*

Max. file size: 15 MB.

Please scan/photograph and upload your Original US Naturalization Certificate with raised seal (Form N-550 or N-570)*

Max. file size: 15 MB.

Please scan/photograph and upload your government-issued Photo ID (front and back)*

Drop files here or

Accepted file types: jpg, jpeg, gif, png, pdf, tiff, Max. file size: 15 MB, Max. files: 2.

IMPORTANT

You must bring the documents you uploaded here to your first lesson so that your instructor can verify them and endorse your logbook. If you forget the documents, you will not be able to fly that day.

Signature & Agreement

You have my permission to verify any of the information provided above. I acknowledge that I have read the Bylaws and flight regulations of the Brookings Flying Club, Inc. and agree to abide by same.

Signature Type*

Type

Sign

Enter your full name to digitally sign this application and agree to the above*

Signature*

Choose a Username*

Choose a Password*

This information will be used to create you account on our website.

Enter Password Confirm Password

Strength indicator

Now, the legal stuff.

In summary,

The club costs money. You have read our by-laws and dues, understand them, and agree to pay.
The club will email you for important communications. You understand that you really need to read emails from the club.
(For flying members) You understand that flying is expensive.
(For flying members using credit check) You authorize us to check your credit, if you select that option.
You authorize us to verify anything on your application, and perform a background check on you.

Club Dues*

I have read and understand By-Laws Addendum A. Further, I understand that by submitting this application, I am liable for any dues incurred as a part of the application process, for my usage of club assets, and for my membership until such time as the club receives written notice of my membership cancellation (or my membership is terminated by the board of directors). Upon termination of membership, I understand that I will still owe any balance that was due at the time of my membership termination. I understand that all balances are due to the BFC by the date listed on each invoice, and unpaid balances may result in fees, loss of privileges, and suspension or revocation of membership. I understand that the board of directors may change club dues, fees, privileges, membership levels, etc. at any time, and agree that continued membership after such a change constitutes agreement to the changes.

I agree

Electronic Payments ONLY*

The BFC uses an electronic billing system to invoice its members. This invoicing system includes multiple payment methods, with and without fees, including credit card and ACH. As a new member, you will be required to utilize this system for all payments to the club, and will not be able to pay with check or cash.

I agree, and understand I will be required to make all payments electronically.

Email Communication Agreement*

The Brookings Flying Club will send important notices about the club, your membership, and requirements/changes via email. Should you not read or acknowledge an email from the club, the club is not under any obligation to reach out to you through another method. Therefore, we highly suggest that you check your email frequently and read all notices from the club.

I understand

Costs involved with a pilots license / flying*

Flying is an expensive hobby. We want to make sure that every new member understands what they're getting into. We encourage all new members to check the "Become a Pilot" page on our website for an approximate cost breakdown of getting a pilots license.

I understand the cost of flying

Consent for Background Check*

By completing this application, I authorize Brookings Flying Club, Inc to obtain a Background Check on me.

The Background Check may contain information available in the Public Domain as well as interviews with current and/or previous employers, references, and other parties.

By agreeing below, I hereby authorize all corporations, former employers, credit agencies, educational institutions, law enforcement agencies, city, state, county and federal courts and agencies, military services and persons to release all information they may have about me including criminal and driving history. This authorization shall be valid in original or copy form.

I agree

Note, our background check process can be very through, going as far as "knowing about that speeding ticket from back in 1998" for some people.

If we're going to find anything at all on your record, it's important to explain below.

If there's anything we're going to find on your background check that you'd like to explain in advance, here's a box for you to do so. Otherwise, leave this blank.

Note: If you've ever received a traffic ticket or any criminal charges, we will most likely see them in your background check, regardless of how long ago they occurred. If your background check will reveal anything that may trouble us, this is your chance to explain why you think it shouldn't.

This field is hidden when viewing the form

Financial Verification

This field is hidden when viewing the form

Select verification method*

Notice: As of November 14th, 2019, the Brookings Flying Club now requires proof of financial capability for new flying members.

What does this mean?
The Flying Club will use one of several methods to make sure you are able to pay for any bills you may run up while renting our aircraft and/or utilizing our services.

Why are you doing this?
The BFC only bills out aircraft charges monthly. As a result, it is possible to incur significant charges in a short period of time. The BFC adopted this policy to reduce instances of non-payment.

How can I provide what you're looking for?
Your options are:

Get a credit check (easiest, fastest) - The BFC will obtain a copy of your credit report and evaluate your financial status. The cost of this report is $15, payable to the credit reporting agency directly, and non-refundable. Note that if the results of the check are not satisfactory, you may be asked to use one of the other methods. This is not a "hard inquiry" and our pulling the report will not affect your credit score.
Block time deposit (secondary) (non-refundable) - Prepay for 9 hours of aircraft time, and receive 10 hours. There are no additional fees associated with this option, but the deposit is non-refundable, and processing may take several weeks before your rental privileges are approved. (Note that this block time discount is always available to members, not just during initial application)
Hold on credit card (not recommended) (credit only, no debit)- The BFC will send you an authorization form, on which you will provide your credit card number and authorization to place a hold on your credit card equal to 10 hours of flight time at the current rate. The money will not be deducted from your account, but the funds will be unavailable to you for 7-14 days while they are verified. Once the hold is placed, we are unable to remove it until it "times out" on its own.

Regardless of the method you choose, none of these verifications are performed until after your application has been preliminary accepted.

Credit check (easiest, fastest, preferred)

Block time deposit (non-refundable) (secondary method)

Hold on credit card (not recommended)

I am unable to satisfy any of these checks. Please contact me for special circumstances/arrangements.

I am under 18. Please contact me for special circumstances/arrangements.

Credit Check Consent*

By completing this application, I authorize Brookings Flying Club, Inc to obtain a Consumer Credit Report on me.

This authorization is valid for purposes of verifying information given pursuant to employment, leasing, rental, business negotiations, or any other lawful purpose covered under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

I agree