Hobbies And Interests
Choose the Right Plane
Most people enter the RC airplane hobby because they have seen a model of a World War II fighter in a magazine or flying at a local park or RC field. The warbirds are very attractive both on the ground and in the air. Warbirds, however, are not beginner planes. A new RC pilot should always learn to fly on a trainer style plane. These planes have a high wing, that is one that sits on the top of the airplane. The high-wing design affords the pilot two advantages. The first is low wing loading. Wing loading is a measure of how much weight the wing is supporting; it's measured in ounces per square inch. The lower the wing loading the better the plane will glide. High-wing trainers have a low wing loading because they use longer and broader wings which increase the wing area and lower the wing loading. The second advantage is the pendulum effect. Since all the weight is below the wing, the plane will always try to return to a level position after banking. If a new RC pilot gets into trouble with a trainer, letting the control sticks go back to neutral will usually allow the plane to correct itself.
Pre-Flight Check
Checking over the plane, the radio equipment and the flying field before flying is one of the most important steps an RC pilot can take. Most crashes can be avoided by simply making sure everything is functioning correctly. First thing is to perform a range check on the radio equipment. This takes two people and good communications. Turn the transmitter on, then the receiver, leave the antenna down and walk 100 feet away from the plane. Use the transmitter sticks to move each control surface, one at a time, and have your helper tell you what moved and in what direction. Have your helper look for any unusual twitching or jittering. When you are convinced that the radio equipment is functioning correctly, check the transmitter voltage on the meter. If the batteries are low, replace them with fresh batteries or recharge them overnight. Weak batteries cause weak signals, and weak signals cause lack of control and crashes.
Now check the plane's center of gravity, also known as the balance point. This is a critical step; if the plane is not balanced correctly, it will not fly well and could cause a crash. Never skip this step; it is that critical. Now that the radio has been checked and the center of gravity is correct, take a look around the field. Make sure you pay attention to the wind and sun. Picture in your mind what direction you need to fly for your takeoff and landing, both should be done into the wind. If there are other pilots flying, make sure they are not using the same radio frequency you are.
Seek Help for Your Maiden Voyage
It is highly recommended that you have an experienced RC pilot work with you on your first few flights. Once a plane is in the air, it can be difficult to determine which way the plane is going and which way to move the control sticks. Ideally use a buddy box system where the experienced pilot flys the plane and can transfer control to the student. If the student becomes confused the experienced pilot can take control back and bring the plane to a safe position.
Learn to fly a trainer well before moving on to a low-wing plane like a warbird, this will help you enjoy the hobby and keep you in the air longer.