Hobbies And Interests
History
Advances in aviation during World War II led to the popularity of RC airplanes during the 1950s. Since then, RC planes have become more sophisticated.
Popularity
Adults who flew RC planes in backyards as kids during the 1950s have brought along subsequent generations of fliers, forming regional and national flying clubs throughout the country.
Size
Remote controlled airplanes range in size from small trainers to giant planes as large as tractors. In 2009, the Guinness Book of Records featured the largest model RC plane, made in Belgium, with a wing span of 8.9 meters.
Skill Development
In 2009, RC airplane pilots who want to learn new tricks can practice and gain flying skills using computer RC simulators before putting their own aircraft at risk.
Price
In 2009, prices ranged from RC trainer planes around $100 upward of several thousand dollars.
Expert Insight
Many RC airplane pilots enjoy the thrill of constructing planes as much as they do flying them. A huge market exists in materials, engines and controllers as hobbyists add their personalities to their constructions.