There is something about flying that excites and amazes certain people. Many people often dream of flying, but resist following that dream because it seems too difficult and too expensive. However, the excitement and dreams of flying have become a reality with radio-controlled (RC) aircraft. Actually, some of the RC aircraft today can give you the best flight of your life. If you would talk to a dedicated RC plane hobbyist, they would tell of the excitement of heading to an RC field on a warm, sunny day to fly their planes and to enjoy the camaraderie of other hobbyists and RC club members. It is always amazing to see the many different styles of aircraft and how they maneuver through the air.
Radio-controlled planes have a rich history, and provide a suitable hobby for all ages and skill levels. Flying enthusiasts have a large variety of aircraft to choose from, making the hobby more exciting for all hobbyists from the beginner to the expert. You can pick and choose what you want depending upon your taste and the available money you have to spend. Generally, the ideal choice of a particular RC plane depends upon a combination of style and pilot skill level.
For beginners, park flyers are a great choice. The term “park flyer” denotes small, primarily electric planes. They are so named because they are small enough to be flown inside public parks. The recommended aircraft for beginners is an A-R-F (Almost Ready To Fly) high-wing trainer. A-R-F planes are already built and don’t require a lot of time and building experience to get ready for flight. A-R-F planes also have fairly large wing spans (60-70 inches) which aid in better visibility and flight operation.
For intermediate hobbyists, there are glow plug engine planes and electric powered planes. Glow plugs, which are similar to spark plugs, ignite the fuel in the plane operating as a small internal combustion engine.
For the expert pilot, jets, helicopters, and competition aircraft are very popular and provide an exciting challenge. Sophisticated electronics and speed controllers have now taken the controlling of an RC airplane to higher levels. These aircraft are no longer considered toys just to play around with. Jets commonly use ducted fans or micro turbines to power them. They are constructed of carbon fibre and fibre glass. Jets can achieve speeds over 200 mph, requiring quick reflexes and many hours of flying experience. Helicopters are trickier to fly than planes and are much less forgiving.
If you want to get started flying RC planes the following information may help you:
Flying aircraft of any type is not a skill we are born with. Purchasing any radio-controlled aircraft and trying to fly without some basic knowledge may possibly result in the destruction of the model. When this happens right off the bat, most prospective flyers get discouraged and pass on an exciting hobby. Flying RC aircraft is not difficult but does require some practice to become proficient enough to have your plane soar through the skies and return for a safe landing. Teaching yourself to fly is possible; however, if you find a local flying club and seek some help from the experienced flyers is the ultimate way to learn. A flight simulator can aid in learning the fundamental movements and actions of an airplane. It is an easy and convenient way to practice the simplest turns to the most complex maneuvers. It must be remembered that the flight simulator does just what it’s name implies, it simulates the actions of an airplane. The simulator is not the real thing and most planes react differently in the air.
Whether you are a kid, or just a kid at heart, flying RC aircraft is directed at anyone who wants to relax and have fun. Get involved if you want a hobby that gives you a thrill!
Happy Flying!
Stephen Stillman