GETTING STARTED (Part 1)
TYPES OF AIRCRAFT
Even as a casual observer of full-scale airplanes, you are probably familiar with the fact that there are actually many types of aircraft. The same holds true for model aircraft. There are conventional designs, biplanes with two wings, propeller-powered and jet-powered, helicopters, sailplanes, ultralites, and more.
For our purpose of getting started with that first flight of an RC model aircraft we will concentrate on the most common: the simple, fixed-wing or conventional aircraft. This aircraft’s wing generally has aileron control surfaces that allow it to bank or roll from side to side in flight. The wing is attached to a fuselage that usually contains the power system (fueled engine or electric motor), fuel tank and/or battery and the RC (radio) system.
At the back end of the aircraft’s fuselage is the tail assembly consisting of a horizontal stabilizer (stab). This stab will generally have an elevator control that makes the airplane pitch up or down. Also at the tail is the vertical fin, which has the rudder control attached to make the airplane turn (or yaw) left or right.
In addition to the control surfaces (ailerons, elevator, and rudder) the aircraft will have some kind of engine or motor throttle control. This is typically the type of aircraft we will be referring to in this beginner’s guide. Because it is for beginners who are just learning to fly, the specific model type is called the trainer aircraft and it is your best starting point.
Beginners always indicate early on that they are worried that they might not have the skills or patience to build a model airplane. Years ago, all of our models were constructed from sticks and/or sheets of balsa wood that eventually got covered with silk or tissue and finally painted with a chemical called “dope” which is short for Nitrate or Butyrate Dope.
Much progress has been made in model-aircraft construction techniques. The wood, tissue, and dope has been replaced with molded plastics and foam, covering material that is simply applied with heat from an iron and needs no painting, and instant cements or glues that join parts in a matter of seconds rather than hours.
With these new techniques available, smart hobby manufacturers have developed new concepts in model aircraft assembly, which eliminate the need for a beginner to get involved with the building process. In other words you can now purchase a model airplane that is ready to fly (RTF) or almost ready to fly (ARF). The RTF models come fully assembled with an RC system, controls, and power system already factory installed. ARF aircraft require some partial assembly of parts and the installation of RC and power systems.
With this new technology, it is possible to get from the kit box or shipping box to the flying field in a matter of a day or two, without the need for building. In fact the biggest thing the beginner has to do is read all the instructions and learn how everything operates before attempting that first flight.
The first goal for the beginner is to make that initial flight and experience the entire thrill in accomplishing that task. Building or constructing actual aircraft can come much later on if or when you are ready for it.
As a further note of explanation, when you purchase an RTF model you essentially receive in the one box all the items necessary for that first flight. The only thing extra you might need is a set of eight AA-size alkaline batteries for the RC transmitter.
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On the other hand, with an ARF type aircraft you may have to purchase the RC and power systems separately then perform the final assembly and installation of that equipment on your own. Going the ARF route takes more time and skill, but actually costs less because you are supplying some of the labor. It is your choice!
Whether you decide on RTF or ARF, please keep in mind that the only expendable item is your aircraft itself. The radio and power systems can easily be transferred from airplane to airplane as you progress in the RC hobby. Those systems are a one-time expenditure.
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