This beginners guide aims to give you some guidance to the best way to get started in RC model flying.

RC model flying is an enjoyable and rewarding hobby if you make the right steps into it. You may have seen people flying large models, performing great acrobatic manoeuvres and making it look easy. Getting to this level of flying is all down to training, practice, experience and learning on the right model.

The simple answer is to join your local club and this can't be recommended enough. So why should you join your local club and what are the benefits?

Advice
Most clubs have members who have been model building and flying for many years. Their experience is invaluable and they will normally help with any aspect of building and flying your model.

Safety
Flying models can be dangerous to both yourself and others. You are in control of a model that has a propeller that spins hundreds or thousands of times a minute which can do a lot of damage. The club will advise you on the best practices for handling and flying your model. Ask yourself, do you really know where is safe to fly? No, then join a club.

British Model Flying Association
Any good club will be affiliated to the British Model Flying Association (BMFA) and if you join the club they will probably require you to join the BMFA. BMFA membership will give you 3rd party insurance (in case something goes wrong), a members handbook to refer to, quarterly BMFA news magazines full of great content and an achievement scheme for you to work to as your flying skills progress.

Flying
Finally the fun part! Most clubs will offer training and guidance for you to attain your BMFA 'A' Certificate. The 'A' certificate recognises you are competent to fly solo and that you have learnt the necessary safety aspects of the hobby. Training will either be under vocal instruction but normally the "buddy box" system will be used where both Instructor and Trainee transmitters are linked by a cable and the control of the model can be passed between them.

Social
Many clubs have regular meetings and events which members can attend. It's a great time to meet like minded people, swap stories and get tips. Trips to other clubs are often arranged for a chance to fly somewhere new and meet some new faces.

Go Join!
Click here to visit the BMFA website and find your local club from their club database (opens in a new window).

The easiest and cheapest way to practise flying a model is to use a computer simulator. This saves you hundreds of pounds as it cheaper to crash a virtual model than the real thing! If the weather is bad you can still practise on your PC whilst you wait for better day to visit the patch.

The latest simulators work by installing the simulator software onto your computer then allow you to control the model by a controller which is usually connected by the computers USB port.

Controllers
Controllers come in several types. Some simulators come supplied with USB transmitter controller which allows you to get used to the holding a transmitter unit and the movement of the sticks. Some other versions include a game controller similar to those found on Playstation and XBox. Other systems allow you to connect your existing transmitter using a lead that connects from the trainer socket to the computers USB port.

The new generation of simulators feature photo realistic graphics. Starter simulators are very cheap and allow you to upgrade to more models and flying sites when your skills grow.

Click here to view all our Simulators.

Now we all want to be the Red Baron or a precision aerobatic pilot flying a stunning looking model. To fly these models you need to learn to build and fly a suitable model first - building and learning on a trainer model is the fastest way to progress your flying. If you jump ahead to an advanced model for your first model then you'll probably end up with an expensive pile of balsa after your first flight, a change of underwear required from the resulting scary crash and the purchase of a new model.

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Trainer Planes
Trainer planes are purpose built to give you the best chance of learning to fly successfully. Their high wing and large wingspan design make the aircraft very stable at low speeds so allowing you time to react to the model.

They also feature rugged but flexible undercarriage to absorb the force from your hard or bumpy landings as you learn the art of smooth landings. Most trainers are very flexible planes in terms of performance so you can progress from performing straight and level circuits to simple aerobatics as your skills increase.

For all our trainer aircraft we have listed out all the parts required to get you flying. Click here to view all our Trainer aircraft.

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Radio Control
When choosing the radio control equipment for your trainer do make sure you choose one with a "Trainer" or "Buddy Box" function. This will allow you to link your transmitter to your instructors at the club so you can fly together and the instructor can control the model if needed. Manufacturers have their own trainer systems so you will need someone with a compatible transmitter to link up to at the club.

For all our trainer aircraft we have listed out all radio control equipment required to complete the model on the planes page. Click here to view all our Trainer aircraft.

Things still a little unclear? We're happy to help, just call 0845 539 2103 or email us, help is at hand!

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The Old Cider Barn,
Highchurch Farm Workshops,
Chickwell Lane, Hemington
Radstock, Somerset
BA3 5XT
United Kingdom

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