How much does it cost?
Although some of the aircraft can be expensive, a person can get started in
the R/C hobby for as little as $300.00 or less. This is not too expensive when
you compare it to the cost of golfing or skiing for a season (approx. $1800.00
and more).
Many of those new to RC are starting with Electric powered models. Click Here for information on this State of the Art part of the RC modeling arena.
How do these miniature aircraft work?
These are miniature aircraft with the same functions as their full sized counterparts.
They fly in the same way with the same controls. The big difference is that
they are controlled from the ground with a radio transmitter with control sticks
on it. The engines can be either 2-stroke or 4-stroke, gasoline or the high
end being the jet turbine. Also gaining in popularity is the electric motor
. In the aircraft is a radio receiver that runs electric motors called servos.
The servos move the control surfaces of the plane causing it to react to the
pilot inputs from the transmitter on the ground.
Are they dangerous?
When not treated with due respect and caution, any machine can be dangerous.
You must always keep thinking " safety " . We have strict rules and
regulations governing the flying of our miniature aircraft. We only fly away
from populated areas, and at least five miles away from airports. We are
in compliance with rules and regulations of the Academy of Model Aeronautics,
and are a sanctioned AMA club. Check the Links page to review the AMA
and it's function within the hobby.
How do I learn to fly these R/C planes?
Check out our 8 Step training program printable from the home page. Another
good tool is a flight simulator to practice on, and to get a "feel"
what it's like. One good thing about a simulator is, if you crash it won't cost
you any money.
Can I learn to fly without an instructor?
A small number of lucky modelers have taught themselves how to fly remote control
airplanes but they are few and far between. More often than not, a novice pilot
will crash and totally destroy his airplane without the assistance of an instructor
- and he won't even be able to recognize what went wrong. Many hours of work
can be involved in the construction of a model and it will be lost in a moment
of beginners indecision. A skilled flyer can help you get past the first critical
test and trimming flights without damage to the airplane.
Are the models hard to build?
Most of the kits out today can be built with little fuss. If you are capable
of following instructions, you shouldn't have any trouble at all. The instructions
that come with the kit usually have pictures and diagrams showing you how the
parts should go together. Modern model kits are precision cut (laser) and use
the best materials. If you have questions about building a kit, there are many
experienced model builders in the Club who would be more than happy to lend
a hand. There are also a lot of ARF (Almost Ready to Fly) planes avialable
that get you in the air more quickly.
What kinds of tools do I need?
The basic tools include a flat building surface,(a door is good and on top of
the door cork or ceiling tile so you can stick your pins in), hobby knife, pins,
sandpaper and glue. CA glue(Cyanoacrylate) but watch out DON'T stick your fingers
together, it's handy to have a small bottle of DEBONDER handy just in case,
and also some epoxy. As you progress in the hobby, you will acquire other tools
that help you in your endeavors.
Do I have to build my own model?
Part of the intrigue of R/C modeling is the construction of your own flying
machine. Seeing your creation in the air adds to the enjoyment. There are, however,
other ways of getting into the air.
In the past few years, manufacturers have been selling
ARF's (Almost Ready to Fly) airplanes. They come complete with everything needed
to get into the air,( a few manufactures include the radio and engine also).
The major structures have already been built and finished. It only takes a few
hours to put it together. The Quality and functionality of these models
has gone up greatly in the past few years, while the price has come down.
Click
here to see an Example of a ARF (Almost Ready to Fly) Trainer.
How fast do they fly?
Their flying speeds can range from about 20 mph to over 200 mph ( jet turbine).
The speed of an average sport model flown in this area from 20 to 50 mph.
How big are they?
A typical sport model or trainer can have about a five foot wingspan and weigh
from four to eight pounds. There are single and multi-engined models that can
have twelve foot wingspans and weigh twenty pounds or more. Jet turbines have
been increasing in popularity. Most models can be disassembled for transportation
with the wing being detached from the fuselage.
How long does it take to fly on your own?
That all depends on the student, and how much time an individual can spend with
the instructor. A good guess would be three months to a year on the average.The
more time (Hrs.) a student can give, the faster (he or she) can fly solo and
receive their "wings".