Choosing Your First RC Airplane

If you are brand new to radio control flying, and trying to decide on your first RC airplane, you may well be feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer number of models offered for sale, particularly if you have been looking online. I recommend that you take your time and do your homework before you make a purchase, as your choice of a first plane will strongly influence, if not absolutely determine, how satisfactory your initial RC experiences will be. Don’t rush to buy; make your decision from a solid information base. Learn basic RC terminology and research which type planes are appropriate for beginners, as opposed to those designed for intermediate or advanced flyers only. Making the right choice will ensure that learning to fly is both enjoyable and rewarding; but the wrong choice can lead to so much frustration and such unfortunate results that you may even decide to quit the hobby before you are even well-started. How does one know which models are suitable for first-timers, and how to narrow down those options to a manageable number? In other words, what kinds of RC airplanes are best for beginners?



Park Flyers

An electric park flyer is a good plane for first-timers to start out on. Unless you actually want to spend days or weeks putting the aircraft together, after having purchased essential components separately and later installed them, you will probably want a Ready to Fly (or RTF) model. These planes come complete with everything you need and can be ready to fly in very short order. If there is no flying field within convenient driving distance, and you lack access to a large, unobstructed piece of private property, park flyers can be safely flown at parks, sports fields, or even decent-sized backyards. Because of the materials from which they are constructed, park flyers are typically pretty durable—i.e., they tend to survive all but the most severe crashes with minimal or no damage—and unlike nitro/glow planes, require little or no additional equipment, upkeep or maintenance.



Smaller park flyers can be flown in smaller spaces; larger models require more room to operate. Wherever you fly, make sure there are no obstructions, people or property within or adjacent to the flight space. And if you want to fly in a municipal park, first make sure that RC aircraft are not prohibited. Another benefit to park flyers for beginners is that you don't have to spend much for one--good quality models can be had for well under $100. You should find several models to choose from at any decent hobby store, but for best selection and lowest prices, search online for “park flyers” or ‘beginner RC planes.” Have fun, stay safe and good flying!




RC Planes


Kids Remote Control


Radio Controlled Toys


Multiplex EasyStar RTF