How to Fly RC Model Planes
The "RC" in RC model planes stands for radio-controlled. These planes are models designed to resemble aircraft, with an operator guiding their flight via radio from the ground below.
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Instructions
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Subscribe to an RC model airplane magazine. These are packed with tips and solutions that can help you as you fly your planes. They also offer advice on which RC model airplanes are best to purchase and why. An excellent magazine to consider is Model Airplane News (see Resources below).
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Visit your local hobby shop and select a plane. The customer service associates will be able to offer advice on which planes best meet your needs. Don't be shy about seeking their expert opinion.
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Join a flying club in your area. These clubs offer members the use of an airfield for RC model airplane flight, and will give you a venue where you can allow your airplane to soar. They will also provide you with the opportunity to meet and interact with more experienced flyers. Find a local flying club via the R/C Web Directory (see Resources below).
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Join the Academy of Modern Aeronautics (AMA). This is a national group that governs model plane activity in the United States. By joining, you will have access to lots of useful model plane information via the organization's website (see Resources below). Additionally, membership in the AMA automatically gets you liability insurance. Many airfields won't allow you to fly without this insurance.
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Get training via an instructor. Proper training may seem like an unnecessary expense, but it can save you money in the long term by helping you avoid irreparable crashes. Find an instructor by getting a referral at a flying club.
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Plan your budget. RC model planes range in cost from moderate to expensive.
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Tips & Warnings
Beginners looking to purchase RC model planes are usually advised to buy an electric ready-to-fly, or RTF, plane. These planes are the most affordable. As their name suggests, they're ready to fly straight out of the box and are the easiest to use.
Intermediate flyers may want to consider electric or gas-powered almost ready-to-fly, or ARF, planes. These require some assembly.
