How to Build and Fly Model Airplanes

Tower Hobbies Mk 2 ARF 40

Building and flying model airplanes can be an enjoyable hobby that teaches mechanical and electrical know-how and can be embraced by both young and old as a way to share the love of flying that almost every person shares. With almost ready to fly (ARF) and ready to fly (RTF) kits, building a model airplane is easy as one, two, three.

Things You'll Need

• Model airplane kit
• Model airplane engine
• Radio control with at least four channels
• Epoxy glue/mixing sticks
• Screwdrivers/pliers

Instructions

1. Find the right aircraft; that's the first priority. A good choice for an ARF trainer aircraft is a high-wing aircraft with a tricycle-type landing gear. A high-wing design keeps the center of gravity beneath the center of lift, making the aircraft more stable and more likely to return to a level flight attitude. Tricycle landing gear provides stability when travelling on the ground, keeping the pivot moment closer to the main portion of the aircraft. An example of an aircraft like this is the Tower Hobbies Mk 2 ARF, which requires minimal building but gives a good understanding of how the aircraft is put together.

2. Choose the radio and engine. Most aircraft require a four-channel radio system, an engine and some minor parts. If you need help deciding on the best radio and engine set-up to get with your airplane, most hobby stores provide combo kits that include a radio, engine and other supplies necessary to get off the ground. However, if you're still at odds between engine A or B, ask a salesperson in your local hobby store. They'll be happy to help.

3. Build the airplane. Remember that old expression--measure twice, cut once. The same principle holds true in building your model aircraft. Be sure to read all the instructions before you begin construction. When gluing components permanently, use a two-part epoxy glue. For high-stress areas like the wing joiner use a 30-minute or longer epoxy. The longer the cure time, the stronger the bond.

4. Find an experienced RC (Remote Control) pilot to double check it. By now you've spent several hours building and preparing your aircraft to fly, but you don't know how to fly it. Before you "kick the tires and light the fires", have an experienced RC pilot look over the airplane and take it for its first flight. This experienced RC pilot might notice something that they have come across in their years of experience.

5. Fly the airplane. The experienced pilot can help you learn how to fly it by using the "Buddy Box," a cable that connects two radio controllers together, thus allowing the master box to give control to the secondary box. The buddy box lets you learn how to fly your aircraft while still having a more experienced RC pilot backing you up, and possibly helping you recover in case the aircraft does something you are not prepared for.

Tips & Warnings

• Flying model airplanes can be dangerous, so always keep a mindset on safety first. Ask other modelers about some practices to help keep you and others around you safe.

References

• Landing gear arrangements
• Beginners guide to RC Aircraft
• Tower Hobbies Mk 2 ARF

Resources

• Model Airplane Secrets