Does the Woodland Davis Aeromodelers Flying Site Require Remote ID?

Updated

No. The Woodland Davis Aeromodelers (WDARC) flying site is an FAA Recognized Identification Area (FRIA), so no Remote ID capability is needed for local, line-of-sight flying at the field. That exemption applies to flying on their field — it does not automatically carry over to other locations.

What the FRIA status means for you

A FRIA is a location the FAA has recognized as suitable for model flying without the remote identification broadcast that recreational flyers otherwise need. In practice, at the WDARC site you can fly line-of-sight without adding a Remote ID module or broadcast capability to your aircraft.

Two conditions are built into that statement:

  • Local, line-of-sight flying only. The exemption is tied to flying at the field within visual range, not to flying beyond line of sight or at another site.
  • On their field only. If you fly somewhere else, the FRIA designation does not follow you. Check the rules for that location separately.

The site and what it supports

WDARC describes itself as a model aviation club located between Woodland and Davis, California, welcoming people who build and fly model aircraft. The facility supports:

  • Radio control aircraft of all sizes
  • Control Line models
  • Helicopters
  • Sailplanes
  • RC cars

The field is open to visitors anytime members are present, which makes it practical to stop by and see the site before committing to a membership or a first flight.

Location

43295 County Road 29, Davis, CA 95616 — between Road 102 and Road 105.

Scheduling an introductory flight

If you are new to the hobby or to the site, the club offers introductory flights with an instructor. To arrange one, contact Jeff Lovitt by email at [email protected]. This is the practical first step if your goal is to fly at the field and you want guidance on equipment and site expectations before your first visit.

Before you go

  • Confirm someone will be there. Visitor access depends on members being present, so plan around a known event or contact the club first.
  • Bring line-of-sight-appropriate gear. The no-Remote-ID condition covers local, line-of-sight flying at this field; plan your flight accordingly.
  • Ask about membership. General questions about the club or joining go through the contact form on the site, or by email at [email protected].

Upcoming event

The club lists a Toy's 4 Tots event for Nov 07, 2026, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM at Co Rd 29, Davis, CA 95616, with registration available through the site. Events like this are a low-pressure way to visit the field, meet members, and see the flying site in use.