All About RC Planes and RC Airplanes

Another popular hobby store item is remote control model airplanes. A longtime favorite, let's go over some of the basics of RC airplanes.

First, what makes the biggest difference in control is the placement of wings. As you can imagine, the higher the wings, the easier it is to fly. As you become more experienced you can start flying airplanes that have the weight above the wings for special tricks. Here is a rundown of the weight / wing relationships:

Low Wing. This is exactly what it sounds like, the wings are low and attached under the fuselage. This is the type of plan best suited for experienced pilots. The reason for this is the sensitivity needed to pull off stunts with low wing rc planes. Once you have the skill level to fly these rc airplanes though, you can do stunts that are not possible with other plans. Think WWII or aerobatic models.

Mid Wing. This is the symmetrical looking plane. Wings are placed directly in the middle of the plan. This is a very common design for those who are between novice and experienced.

High Wing or Bi-Wing. These are at the top of the plane, or in the case of the bi-wing, there are two wings on both sides. This is the easiest planes for beginners. It provides a very stable flight.

Another thing to consider is the speed or space it takes to fly a remote control plane. For beginners, look for sets that say "slow flyer" or "park flyer" as this tells you the speed and space it will take to fly the plane. You can use many Slow Flyers inside a home. The only real difference between a slow flyer and a park flyer is that park flyers tend to have more speed. Both of these types are breakable. Whether you are flying in your home or at the park avoid obstacles. Also, these types of plans require no or little wind. They tend to be very light and so in a good wind you will lose control (and possibly sight) of your plane. Neither of which is good!

Lastly, propeller safety is a real issue with RC airplanes. Almost any type of plane you fly has the potential to harm you or someone else. Obviously the potential danger is dependent on the type of material or the power behind a propeller. Use common sense to keep yourself and others out of harm's way. An easy way to do this would be paint the edges of the propellers a very obvious color like black or red. This will help you see the edges of the propellers when they are in motion and where the "safety zone" is for your fingers.

This was just a basic recap of some parts of RC airplanes. Get to your local hobby store and talk somebody's ear off. Better yet, just lurk the RC airplane aisle and keep your ears open for great tips!