How to Buy Indoor-Flight Model Planes

Indoor-flight model airplanes permit hobbyists to indulge their passions year-round, regardless of the season or the weather. Low cost and relative simplicity mean youngsters can have also fun learning about aerodynamics by constructing a real flying model.

Things You'll Need

• Airplane Glue
• Modeler's Tools And Supplies
• Glue Guns
• Hot Glue Sticks
• Razor Knives
• Superglue
• R/C Modeling Construction & Operating Publications
• 14-function Pocketknives
• Dremel Rotary Tools
• Phillips Screwdrivers
• X-Acto Knives
• Electric Screwdrivers
• Needle-nose Pliers
• Nut Drivers
• Pliers
• Razor Plane Sets
• Razor Saw Sets
• Screwdriver Bits
• Slotted Screwdrivers
• R/C model airplanes - Pica Corsair F4U electric, GPM Electricub, Kyosho T-33 electric, Slowflyer electrics

Instructions

Rubber-powered or Glider Airplanes

1. Read and learn. Indoor flying of rubber-powered or glider airplanes is "free flying" - the models fly without being controlled by the modeler.

2. Remember, indoor flying models are light and delicate whether constructed from a kit or from scratch.

3. Be aware that most indoor flying models are either gliders or powered by rubber-band-driven propellers. Indoor radio-control flying generally involves electric-powered scale models.

4. Remember that you'll see familiar airplanes such as the Piper Cub or a Fokker tri-plane, but also you'll see fanciful designs, for which no full-size counterpart exists.

5. Think about the scale with which you want to begin. A popular scale is "Peanut," which consists of a tissue-paper-covered wood frame with a wingspan no greater than 13 inches.

6. Remember that while some indoor-flight modelers build and fly for fun, many enjoy competitions involving flight duration.

7. Join a free-flight model club.

8. Find a friendly mentor among club members to help you learn about kit selection, construction techniques and competition.

Electric-powered Airplanes

1. Remember, electric-powered model aircraft are also radio-controlled and, thus, you'll make a more significant investment.

2. Consider investing in an almost-ready-to-fly electric airplane kit - one that comes complete with scale-model aircraft, electric motor, radio-control transmitter, battery pack and accessories.

3. Find a flying club in your area.

4. Check to see if there's a member who enjoys electric-powered airplane models and ask for tips.

5. Find your local hobby store, visit and look around. Ask for literature.

6. Remember that the Internet is a valuable tool. Use it to contact other enthusiasts or follow a Web ring.

Tips & Warnings

• Electric-powered flying scale models generally are more economical to purchase and maintain than "wet fuel" flying models.

• Indoor flying of electric-powered models is limited to relatively low-speed designs.