We give our time freely to teach newcomers to fly. We always use the ‘buddy-lead’ system of dual control, and in doing so have had very few accidents or damaged models as a result. We can usually give trial flights on our club trainer (an electric Max thrust Riot) but recommend that trainees buy their own models for long-term tuition. No fees (apart from club fees!) are charged for tuition, those who wish to show their appreciation for the time given by the instructors usually stock up the tea/coffee and biscuits!
There are three major items that need to be bought as a minimum and these are (1) a suitable trainer type model aircraft on which to learn to fly (2) a compatible powerplant and (3) a set of radio control equipment.
There is a danger in buying second-hand equipment in that it might not be suitable for learning with i.e. the radio equipment may have become unreliable, the engine/motor may have seen better days & a model may have some hidden crash damage etc. So it is best to leave the fun of bartering to when you need to purchase your next model.
Finally you will need to get help in learning to fly. Our club rules require you to fly under supervision until you have passed a BMFA ‘A’ certificate. NEVER be tempted to have a go on your own, as you will not be insured at Langar. Therefore, if you want to learn to fly at Langar all we do ask is that you join the club and also, become a member of the British Model Flying Association (BMFA) in order to avail yourself of the insurance cover thus provided.
The Model
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There are several suitable high wing trainers available that are idea for learning to fly. This type of model is perfect for the beginner as they are generally stable and forgiving to fly.
NO OTHER TYPE OF MODEL SHOULD BE CONTEMPLATED AT THIS STAGE.These aircraft are designed to fly using a minimum of 4 functions so this again dictates your minimum requirements for radio. The 4 functions are aileron control (roll), elevator (pitch), rudder (yaw) and throttle (engine speed).
Almost-ready-to-fly (ARTF) models are best when starting out. Intense building projects can come later when you have gained some experience.
ARTF models usually come complete with all the required servos to operate the controls & electric models come with a motor with an Electric Speed Controller (ESC) to control the throttle. All are usually pre-installed by the manufacturer.
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Powering the motor
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You will need to add both a battery, as well as radio gear. The battery will power both the motor & also the radio gear. Typically trainers use 3S (11.1v) Lithium Polymer (Lipo) batteries with a capacity of around 2200mAh. Check what the manufacturer recommends & also note the type of battery connection that is to be used (the manufacturer will detail these). There are numerous types of connectors & buying a battery with the wrong connector will necessitate buying both new connectors & a bit of soldering.
You will also need a battery charger suitable for charging Lipo batteries. They usually come with a variety of connectors, but again check that the charger has an appropriate connector. Most chargers can be run from either the mains electricity, or a car battery (using crocodile clips).
The number of batteries you require, will usually depend on the number of flights you intend to do in any one session & if you intend charging the batteries whilst at the flying site.
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The Radio
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There is a huge choice of radios available. At the beginners end of the market there are basic 4 & 6 channel sets that are very capable of getting you through the training stage and into your next few models, – some will never need anything more than this. At the top end of the market are transmitters that can cost many thousands of pounds & are more suitable when flying equally priced models! In the middle there are a range of 7,8 and 9 channel radios with varying level of function and sophistication. As most flyers gain experience, they will progress to one of these radios, so it may be worthwhile considering investing in one of these sets to start with.
There are two basic Modes of transmitters, Mode 1 and Mode 2.
Mode 1 has the engine throttle on the right hand stick along with the ailerons thus leaving the elevator and rudder on the left hand stick.
Mode 2 has the engine throttle on the left hand stick along with the rudder this time thus leaving the ailerons and elevator on the right hand stick.
There is no right or wrong Mode to use, it will be personal preference, but there are generally more people flying Mode 2. Of course, this means there are likely to be more instructors available too. Most transmitters can be set to work in either Mode. |
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