Getting started in model flying

 

There are a number of ways to start model flying, however most of them are somewhat expensive and can be very frustrating. It is very easy these days to walk into a model shop or even a toy shop and walk out with a plane that is almost ready to fly, but this is where the problems start.  In other words, the plane may be almost ready to fly, but are you?

 

Hopefully, this article will identify some of the pitfalls and ensure that your first steps into this fascinating hobby are as painless as possible.

 

Before you part with your well earned cash, visit your local flying club and talk to the guys flying.  Most clubs members will be more than happy to show you what it’s all about and give you lots of free advice.  Some clubs will even allow a trial flight with you taking control of the plane, albeit linked to a ‘buddy lead’ so that an instructor can take over if you get into difficulties. It is usually a good idea to arrange this in advance of any visit.  If you decide that you would like to take up the hobby, it’s a good idea to join a model flying club because they can provide a  structured training programme which will ensure that you don’t wreck your plane every time that you attempt to fly it.   The club can also provide insurance through their membership scheme.  Safe flying is vital, and most clubs have instructors who will teach these safety aspects of flying, as well as the skills required to control the model.  This hobby will give you years of fun and enjoyment, and as you progress, you can work towards the British Model Flying Association’s (BMFA) proficiency scheme. 

 

So what do you need to buy?  Probably the best way to start is with a trainer.  This will have an IC (internal combustion) engine around about 6.5 cc (0.4 cu) in size. 

A transmitter is needed to control the plane and inside the aircraft will need to be a receiver.  These usually come as a package, but can be bought separately.  Of course there are a quite a few makes and you need to choose one that suits your bank balance and is sufficient to take you past the learner stage. 

 

In the UK we fly most models on 35MHz, so the transmitter must match this specification.  Within this frequency range specific channel needs to be chosen. This range runs between channels 55 and 90.  It is a good idea to check with the flying club to see if specific frequencies are already being used.

 

Of course, there are other items that will need to be purchased; these include fuel, a starter, a glow stick and some method of getting fuel into the plane.  Again talk to your local club members who are more than willing to help you out.

Bury Model Flying Club has a scheme for helping novice pilots and is committed to safe responsible flying.  If you’re interested, give Alan Flight (secretary) a call on 01359 270560.