The nonpowered (or glider) type of RC aircraft will take a bit more of an explanation since your, first question will almost certainly be, "How can it fly without an engine?" Imagine an automobile parked at the top of a hill with the parking brake set. You release the brake and the car begins to roll down the hill. The steering works, the brakes work, and except for the fact that the engine is not powering the car, you are driving down the hill. The principle is called gravity, and the glider flier uses it to make his/her model proceed through the air. The control systems (which steer or direct the model) do exactly the same things they would do on a similar type of powered model. Only the absence of an engine makes them different. The simplest launch method, called a “start,” can be compared with a 500-foot slingshot with the far end staked to the ground. The pilot attaches the model to a ring on his/her end of the line, stretches it back, and releases. When the launch tension slackens, the glider simply flies off the line, free to search for rising air current (called "thermal").

 

Most primary nonpowered trainers are slower than their powered counterparts, and for this reason, you might like to use the RC glider as the first experience in flight for the beginner. Slower speeds allow increased reaction times, and this means better results in a shorter period of time. It should make you aware that not all RC flying clubs are equipped to handle gliders, so it would be in your best interest to check with your instructor before deciding on this type of trainer setup.

RADIO CONTROL SYSTEMS are the lifeline of the RC airplane. Your system is the control line between your aircraft and you. A good-quality system is a must if you plan to enjoy the time and money you spend in the sport. Your club or hobby shop will give you a good idea of brands that give satisfactory service in your area.

 

Buy a system with a minimum of four channels (a channel is a function - UP/DOWN being one function, RIGHT/LEFT being another, etc.). Some airplanes may be built to fly using as few as one, two, or three channels. However, to save money in the long run, plan for your potential future growth with a four-channel setup. You will also increase your chances of good flight instruction because of the standard arrangement of the control sticks on most four (or more)-channel systems.

 

Engines are relatively easy to select. Your dealer will be able to tell you which brand is easiest for which to get parts. He/show or your local AMA club can make recommendations the best performance value for your dollars. Select an engine that is (in displacement) on the higher side of the engine range for your particular model. It is easier to throttle back a larger engine, than it is to try to make an airplane fly with an engine that is too small and does not have any "cushion" of power available.

 

There you have it. Three basic categories of model airplanes and a bit of advice to guide you along the road. AMA hope this will help you. Get in touch with your local AMA flying club. See the folks at the local hobby shops. Don't be afraid to ask questions, because one day YOU will be the expert whom some beginner will turn to for the right answers.