Are you interested in learning about model aviation and in particular, “radio control”? If so, you’ve come to the right place to get started.
The Clovis Area Modelers [clovisrc.com] like other local Radio Control Clubs, the Central California (FRM) RC [frcm.club] offer an Intro Pilot program.
Learn With Clovis RC?
With ClovisRC, we have several AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics) Registered IP (Instructor Pilots) that can assist you in learning all about the hobby without cost.
Under the intro pilot program you can fly with their AMA Insurance Coverage on a buddy box for up to 60 days. Our club or the Instructor Pilot will often have a plane and transmitter that they will use to teach you; unless, you would like to use your own. There is no cost or requirement to join our club during this introduction or learning period. Or, after the lessons. Our take is we want our students to excel in this hobby at their own pace, location, and financial capabilities. We’re always available to help out with refresher lessons as needed.
Here, one of our Instructors is providing instruction to a young 10 Year old at McDonalds Park in Clovis; where, lots of the training happens.
This location at McDonald Park is thanks to the assistance of The City of Clovis, the AMA, and ClovisRC for working together to make this a happening location for electric park flying and RC instruction.
The IP can show and instruct you on how to takeoff, to fly, and eventually how to land an airplane. The IP will introduce you to the equipment; introduce you to all types of model aviation at the flying field and show you the advantages of different control systems. Systems that escalate from 3 channels to 15 or more depending on the complexity of the way an aircraft is setup. It all depends on where you want to go.
ClovisRC goals remain as a contributor to the aspect of model aviation so that you learn to fly and to help you enjoy the hobby for a lifetime wherever you go.
INFO TO PARENT
Welcome to the FUN hobby & skills flying RC airplanes!
On a computer there are free basic RC flying simulator apps. As the instructor, it is always suggested to new students to practice and learn the controls of a transmitter (radio) and the basics on how RC airplanes fly. There is a link to a video made by Real-Flight – Flight Simulators (one of the best around) that provides visual narration to enhance the learning process.
Our instructor, will also teach these same elements in his ground school. His lessons usually run one hour; unless, if the student is really having a lot of FUN we stay longer!
Parents, family, friends and guests are always welcomed to watch. It is recommended to bring a chair!
> All the RC flight instructor lessons are free.
Our instructors, enjoy the hobby while promoting the FUN & enthusiasm; while observing their students learning the hobby of RC airplane flying with students wanting to learn a valuable skill that they will use for the rest of their life!
Below is a link to a video from RealFlight on the basic understanding of the transmitter (radio), and that is all there is to flying RC planes.
It’s the skills you learn as you progress in flying.
Costs for Entry Level RC Aircraft
In terms of costs; there are several levels to begin with. At ClovisRC, all the members started out with minimal cost systems so that we could learn and grow into the hobby and not jump blindly in to areas we weren’t ready for.
BASELINE ENTRY
That said, probably the easiest entry point is with the Horizon Hobby XCub at $99 for the entire system. Thats right, nothing else is needed to fly this little guy other than skills learned from one of our mentors. As a starting point, this lets the student decide whether this is really their hobby or passion to pursue.
ENHANCED ENTRY
The next advancement level is a larger aircraft with a more enhanced control box that still uses the same flight features but expands on flight duration and skill level options. This is the Apprentice STS 1.5M (60 inch wingspan). This is the jump point into the hobby for the passionate flyer. The plane comes with a good remote; but, will need a battery and at least a USB-C charger to begin with. There is an option to add on a Landing Assist Module for $50 – but not necessary if the student is comfortable on landings. The base cost for this is $400.
BUYING USED
Please note, that most of these planes can be obtained used from individuals on eBay or similar sites and from other local RC Flyers who have already moved up and beyond. Don’t feel that it must be new; but, have an experienced flyer with you if you choose to consider a used item. It helps with finding out if its flight-worthy.
Both Planes Can be Obtained from https://www.horizonhobby.com/
INSTRUCTION METHODOLOGY – how its done
> Two transmitter radios using a wireless “buddy box” system.
> Instructor gets the plane to a safe altitude…
> Instructor hold the master radio
> student holds the other radio.
> Instructor fly’s the plane and then pushes (holds) a control handoff button on the master radio
> The student takes over flying the plane while receiving positive feedback from the instructor
> If the student gets in trouble, the instructor simply releases the button and takes over.
* No “new” pilot stress.
* No “plane” crashes!
Learning Overview
From that graduated learning exposure to the hobby of model aviation, you will be shown ways that investments are made into this hobby so that as you learn and grow and make your own investments you will do it with a level of knowledge that fits your desired level in this diverse hobby. From control line to free-flight to gliders to powered radio control. There’s lots to do.
Like students depicted in the attached photo, you’ll quickly gain the skills needed for Radio Control visual control and orientation.
By flying with an Intro Pilot on a training system you’ll avoid the expensive risk of crashing while learning and save lots of money up front and be able to spend wisely when the time is right. As a committed new Pilot to model aviation, you’ll be covered for free for 60 days under the intro pilot’s insurance and not have to buy a plane until you’re ready.
Example, some students master the RC so well that they enjoy multiple aspects of model aviation; like the person in the photo who went on to join the Young Eagles Program at Reedley College to further her aviation studies to become a commercial airline pilot while continuing in Radio Control as a hobby.
Clovis RC has several members that are seasoned commercial airline pilots that began their careers in model aviation.
You will come to enjoy the hobby of model aviation and in turn realize a lifetime of enjoyment from weekend sport flying, to competition, to the technical aspects of Turbine Jets and Scale Models from Control Line to Radio Control.
With the Intro Pilot Program; come out and enjoy the hobby. To contact us to try this out, use our contact form at the following link.
Click Here to Contact Us!
Also, check out the AMA Website for more information on this program.
New Model Aviation Student – Instructional Information – Click Here
Instructors – AMA Website Pilot Registration Link – Click Here
Never to Young and never to old
So, just remember, that no matter when you start in this hobby, it can last you a lifetime and offers lots of challenges from construction, designing, building, electronics, computer programming, telemetry avionics, flying, or competing in different endeavors. This hobby of model aviation has something for everyone from young to old.
And, whether you’re 3 years old or 67 years old – The hobby stays with you wherever you go. The real changes are all the science disciplines that go along with the hobby.
It’s a lifetime of fun, learning, and great community.
https://www.guentherkg.de/en/
Carden Aircraft Edge 540 (150cc)
