Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Invest $100 in a good RC airplane computer simulator. Although it may seem like a waste of money, this simulator will help you gain experience with flying. Make sure that you purchase one that comes with an authentic RC controller--these controllers help simulate real flying.
Find a remote-controlled flying club near your area. These clubs are designed for the newcomer like you, and they can help teach you the basics of flight. If a club isn't available in your town, you can always self-teach yourself how to fly, but this isn't recommended.
Complete a preflight check on your RC airplane by visibly checking all of the servos, batteries and screws to make sure they are locked, secured or otherwise attached to the airplane. Be sure also to complete an RC range check by walking 30 feet away from your airplane and moving the controls to make sure your antenna is working properly.
Take off your airplane from either concrete, asphalt or short grass. Long grass can slow down your airplane, and it won't get enough speed to take off. If you need to hand-launch your aircraft, throw your airplane into the wind to maximize lift underneath the wings. With the airplane at full power, take one step and give your airplane a firm push with your hand. Keep it level with the ground. If it is too far up, you will stall the airplane and it will crash at your feet.
Fly your airplane at a safe altitude. Flying your machine slightly above the tree tops is a good height to start. Once your airplane reaches this altitude, reduce its power to 1/2 or 3/4. As it starts to get out of eyesight, make a turn to the left or right. This should be done very easily, with only a little pressure on the elevators. This will prevent you from over-compensating and crashing your machine into the ground.
Trim your airplane if it seems to have a tendency to turn to the right or left. This can be done by turning the knobs that are usually located right next to the joystick that turns your aircraft. Move the trim up if it seems to be going up, and vice-versa if it has a tendency to go down.
Immediately cut power to your airplane if things start to spin out of control. This action will decrease both airspeed and altitude, which will reduce damage done to your airplane. If your airplane is in a dive, bring up the elevators and level all of the controls. The most important thing is to stay cool no matter what.