How to Make a Model Plane Fly With a Rubber Band

Use a rubber band to launch a model airplane.

Model airplanes are frequently sold as kits. Once the plane is finished, many children want to make it fly. A simple method for launching a model airplane into the air involves using a rubber band. One end of the rubber band is hooked on a post on the bottom of the plane and the other end is pulled forward to create tension. When you release the airplane, the tension in the elastic will be transferred into a forward momentum and the plane will fly through the air.

Things You'll Need

• Model airplane
• Pencil
• 1-inch finishing nail
• Hammer
• Rubber band

Instructions

1. Flip the model airplane over so the bottom faces the ceiling. Use a pencil to mark out the location for a small finishing nail. Position the mark in the center of the airplane body, forward of the landing gear. If there aren't any landing gear on the airplane, mark out a spot near where the wings meet the plane body.

2. Insert a 1-inch finishing nail into the airplane body. Hammer it in gently. Leave 1/2-inch of the nail exposed. It will serve as a peg that will catch the rubber band.

3. Hold the airplane securely in your left hand and use your right hand to hook a rubber band on the nail. Pull the elastic forward with your right hand until you've built a significant amount of tension.

4. Aim the airplane into a region that's free of people and obstructions. Release your grip on the plane. The tension in the rubber band will launch the airplane forward and into the air.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a smaller finishing nail on small model airplanes that are under 8-inches in length.

• The heavier and larger the airplane, the thicker and larger the rubber band will need to be. If you can't find a thick rubber band, use a few elastics instead of just one.

• Avoid launching the airplane onto pavement or other hard surfaces, as this may damage the plane or its paint.

• Fly the plane in an open area, free of obstructions and people.