Flying Model Airplanes/New Hobby Idea

Over the years the one hobby that I can say I have enjoyed the most is flying model airplanes. There is so much to learn and accomplish in this hobby for the young and old, not to mention the new friends you meet along the way. If you are an outdoors type of person and like to tinker than this hobby is for you.


Many people will think that flying a model airplane or helicopter is too difficult and expensive as a hobby or past time, but with today’s technology and advancements in modeling it couldn’t be easier to learn how to fly. Sure in the old day’s one would have to purchase a kit, build the kit, buy an expensive radio, and then try and teach themselves or find someone that would teach them how to fly the model. Well, those days are gone forever and anyone can learn to fly airplanes or helicopters in no time and join in the fun with a very small investment.

To start flying people think they have to start out by buying a kit, not so in today’s world, you have what they call ARFs, “almost ready to fly” models. This means everything is built for you and the only thing left is to install the radio and engine and you’re ready to go. If that`s not easy enough, there are RTFs, “Ready To Fly” models that the only thing you have to do is fuel it up or charge it up if it`s an electric model, and go out and fly. Technology has made it so easy and affordable in this hobby that flying can be done on a budget from $50 indoor models, to $5000 150cc gas engine scale models, both airplanes and helicopters, and you don`t have to build anything. Just order your favorite model off the web hobby stores and have it delivered right to your door within a matter of days, and you`ll be flying.

It used to be a real challenge to fly a helicopter, but with today’s high tech models, that can be purchased for under $100 and be equipped with a built in gyro, a 5 year old could learn how to fly one in minutes. And they can be flown in a good size living room or back yard at that.

If you want to learn how to fly from your computer, than buy a simulator and learn to fly without having to worry about repairing anything and fly anytime you like and any type of model you like for a very small investment.

Of course if you want to build your own kit this is still possible. Kits by today’s standards are much better through technology than those found 30 years ago because the balsa pieces are laser cut for accuracy and the a wood itself is of a better grade and better hand selection for kits today. Kits for helicopters are availably also, and many of the pieces for these kits will incorporate carbon fiber in place of some of the metal and wood pieces to save weight and increase strength such as frame and rotor blades.

These days there are hundreds of model airplanes and helicopters to choose from, but always be sure of what you're buying first. The great thing is that with the models now available, getting into the hobby of radio control flying has never been easier or more affordable!

The question is often asked if it is better to assemble the RC vehicle from a kit or buy it already assembled and ready to use? This question really depends on each individual and what you are looking to get out of the hobby. The construction of a vehicle model is a hobby in itself. The popularity of plastic model kits of planes and boats has also been an element of the hobby industry for years.

Remember when starting out in the hobby of RC that your first choices of equipment and products are going to leave the biggest first impression of the hobby, so shop and compare before making your purchase.

Thanks for listening,
G Wells