Learn to Fly...!

Beginners are not allowed to fly without supervision until they pass the BMFA ‘A’ Test.

You won’t learn how to fly from a book. Club members are irreplaceable.

Club members will help you get started and help you get your wings

Your first lesson

An instructor will check out your model and installation. Tell him of any alterations you have made. The first lesson will include the site layout, where to park (as this will change according to the wind direction), where the pits are (again this will change with the wind direction) and transmitter control.

Site Layout

Make sure you understand the site layout especially the Transmitter control procedure.

Flying Area

The flying area will be explained to you, make sure you understand, if in doubt ask, see the site layout diagrams on the website.

Always Remember

Make sure you and your model are ready for the days flying.

The skill of flying radio controlled models is not easily acquired, and you will need help. By joining this club you will get that help and support of experienced model flyers and that is the quickest and cheapest road to success. You will be introduced to a programme of learning to fly, how to avoid pitfalls and acquire good habits.

Your success depends on you.

Without the proper training this sport will not only be expensive but frustrating – this can put the newcomer off very quickly.

Get The Proper Training

The length of time-spent learning depends on the individual. Some people learn faster than others, the average time from your first lesson, to going solo, is about three months; again this depends on how much time and effort you put in. But don’t worry it will all click into place eventually. Of course you will not achieve the necessary flying skills by reading about it, use these notes only as a guide. Your instructor is the most important road to success.

Choosing a Trainer

There is a bewildering variety of trainer kits, plans and ready-builts on the market, most of them good, practical designs, easy to build and to fly. “Which is the best?” is a meaningless question, rather you must ask, “Which will be most suitable to my temperament and circumstances?”

What has attracted you into the sport? Do you like excitement, or do you prefer quiet satisfaction? Are you going to be a meticulous builder who also likes to fly, or an ace pilot who puts his models together as quickly as possible? Are you extravagant or do you take pleasure in economy? The modeller will find the balance of activity, which suits his personality.

Ideally, it’s better to get advice from instructors and club members rather than the local model shop.

Come along to one of our flying sessions and get all the advice you require!

Size, Weight and Power

There is a bewildering choice but most ARTF Trainers are acceptable with electric becoming more common.

Kits and Plans

If you have a lot of time on your hands, this is the most satisfying way to come into the sport. The draw back is the time it takes to build and finish the model. And if you have a mishap early in your training, it could put you off a little seeing your hard work broken at your feet.

Your instructor or any of the experienced club members will give you good advice.

Engines

As with aircraft, there are a large variety of electric motors and engines to choose from, some very good and some not so good.

Other Field Equipment

A flight box with a small selection of tools, starting equipment and charged batterys.

Remember, if you borrow anything from fellow modellers, return the item as soon as you finish with it, if you don’t, you may find it difficult to borrow anything else later.

The Guidance System

You don’t have to be an electronic wizard!

Your Instructor will check your installation before the aircraft flies.

Always tell him if you have changed or altered anything.

Any of the standard radio sets will give you all the controls you require, and they are very affordable. It’s up to the individual how much he wants to spend.

Remember, ask your instructor about anything of which you are not sure.

Get advice from the club, rather than the local model shop.

THERE IS NO QUICK WAY TO GAIN YOUR SOLO WINGS

Learning to fly a model aircraft safely and proficiently takes an awful lot of dedication from you. The Instructors word is final on all matters, you should ask him about everything of which you are not sure. If he doesn’t have the answer at hand he will find out for you. Also, remember the Instructor is a modeller - he wants to enjoy our sport like you. Always make sure you are ready for the lesson, there is nothing more frustrating than having to abandon a flight due to poor preparation or a forgotten item.

Remember you may not be the only pupil so don’t waste your tutor’s time.


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