RC Model Planes: Information
Doing Your Homework
Okay, so now that you're armed with the basics and know a few historical tidbits, you're ready to pick out your plane and hit the airfields, right?
Wrong! You've barely scratched the surface. It's a good idea to do a bit of homework before investing money in aeromodelling. There are several useful books and magazines available on RC model planes.
Make sure to ask at your local hobby shop. They'll know where you can locate a good instructor.
You should also consider joining a local flying club. There you'll find several individuals who will help you get started. They can tell you which kind of trainer plane to buy, as well as which type of engine, radio and accessories you will need to put your plane together.
Membership has its Advantages
Many countries have model aeronautics associations. In the U.S., aeromodelers are represented by the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA). Membership with the AMA certainly has its advantages. Members receive up to $2.5 million worth of liability insurance, in case their war bird gets away from them. (Incidently, most airfields will not allow you to fly without coverage.) They are also allowed to participate in aeromodeling contests, and lastly, get a subscription to Model Aviation magazine.
The Plane Facts:
The AMA is the largest sport aviation organization in the world.It sanctions more than a thousand model competitions throughout the country each year, and certifies official model flying records on a national and international level.
It also organizes the annual National Aeromodeling Championships, the world's largest model airplane competition.
The AMA has more than 2,500 organized clubs and over 160,000 members.
