Training

Model planes, and radio control model planes in particular, have come a long way from the days of balsa wood, tissue paper and dope -- and then a trip down the local park to see if it flys.  But with the increasing sophistication of models and radio control has come added risks and responsibilities.  The F3A Aerobatic models flown today are approximately 2 metres in length, 2 metres in width, weigh in at 5kg, are powered by 3.5bhp 23 cc motors turning 17 inch propellers.  They are real aeroplanes in every sense of the word, it is just the pilot that stays on the ground rather than sitting in the plane.

Similarly, the disciplines and skills required to safely fly models of all types and sizes are on par with those of a full size plane.  It can take from 8 to 10 hours flying time to achieve solo rating for a radio control model. 
Once the solo rating has been achieved, it then will depend on the actual time spent flying plus the skill of the modeller to progress from basic manouvers to those more complex. 

So what does flight training entail?

Firstly join a club so you are covered by insurance and are able to access trained Instructors to assist you with the set up of your model and radio, and to teach you the fundementals of flying your model.  This is a "hands on" approach which assists you in achieving your first solo flight.   

It also gives you (the modeller) an understanding of the model, its physical and aerodynamic structure, actions of control surfaces and its mechanical integrity and safety.

An understanding of safe operating procedures for the model, the radio control equipment, and the club and field where you are flying.

The ability to take-off (relatively easy), control the model in the air (a bit harder), and land it safely (the hardest bit of flight training).

Most of the incidents that happen when flying model aircraft can be traced back to failures in the first two of these activities. 
In the instances where it is the third activity, it can be traced to some sloppiness in application of some basic disciplines.

For the training process stable, high wing models are used. Typically the model will be thoroughly inspected by one of our qualified instructors prior to its first flight, as will the installation of all the radio equipment, linkages and motor installation.  Then, you will be briefed on the basics of the field, the use of the frequency control keyboard and your radio transmitter.

With all this done, the Instructor will take the plane up for you, trim it in flight so it is safe for you to fly (and may bring it down to make some adjustments), and when they are happy, help you learn to fly it -- first straight and level, then through turns.  This usually continues (at least for powered models) until you can consistently fly neat rectangular circuits at a constant height.  Once you can do this well, taking off and climbing to a safe height is easy.  And landing involves flying a rectangular circuit (always!!) with lower throttle and a bit of up elevator at the end to 'flare' the model. 

The flying bit is that easy!

Membership

If you are going to take the first step in becoming a part of the modelling activity and intend to apply for membership click here.

Membership fees cover you for membership for twelve months, assigning you with a unique registration number.  This registration is renewed on the 1st July of each year.  If your registration is submitted for less than the 12 months, the fees are charged on a prorata basis (FOR A NEW MEMBER). 

The fees also cover your insurance while flying (at the field), if there happens to be an accident.  It does not insure members for the loss or damage to the model of associated radio equipment.  For more detailed information click here. 

Minutes of all meetings are available to all FINANCIAL CLUB MEMBERS.  For copies of minutes click here.  

The club has specific Rules and Regulations that are put in place to ensure the club is administered in a safe and correct manner for all visitors and members.  For a copy click here.