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Not so long ago, if you wanted to learn to fly, the route to
success usually involved building or buying a “boxy” type,
high-wing, glow engine model, purchased from the local model
shop, then heading off to the local park or model flying field,
where hopefully you would get some help during the testing
and flying of your new model.
For the many established aero modelers today, this was a tried
and tested way that paved the way to success. But times change
and there is now a second, more independent way of getting in
the air; but more on this and the more traditional ways below.
Because the range of models and types of control systems have
changed beyond all recognition, and it is now possible to make
a single box purchase, with the model, radio, engine or motor
included, you can get started right away with a minimum amount
of fuss – and help! Some of these models even have built-in
flight stability electronics that can automatically correct the
models attitude in the air, self-righting the model and reducing
the risk of crashing.
There are however, a few steps that we strongly recommend you
follow for guaranteed success.
Before attempting to fly, do seek out your local model-flying
club. The wealth of knowledge and help that you can obtain there
is immeasurable, and an often-overlooked benefit of joining a
club is the camaraderie that exists between like-minded people
with a common interest.
Join the British Model Flying Association (BMFA). The BMFA represents
all aspects of model aviation in the UK and is recognised by
the Civil Aviation Authority as the national governing body for
model flying. They can provide you with information and contacts,
the location of flying clubs, both local and nationwide, safety
regulations and most importantly, public liability insurance!
Please do not fly without the relevant insurance! Its not worth
taking a chance, and besides which, the BMFA joining fee is very
modest.
With so many people using the Internet for shopping, where does
this leave the traditional model shop? Well the answer to that
is simple! Support your local model shop and you will invariably
find that this is a wonderful resource, not just for making purchases
but also for tapping into the knowledge that most model shop
proprietors have. Here you can be guided into making the right
choices, put in touch with the local model flying club, whether
to use an electric motor or a glow engine for power, a balsa
wood or foam model, an almost ready to fly (ARTF) model, or build
up from a kit, the choices are almost endless, and of course
everyone has a budget! |
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If you prefer to take
the independent, self-teach route of learning HobbyZone® have
a range of planes that can take you from a small inexpensive
model that is easy to fly, through a progression of more complicated
craft that will offer better and more advanced flight capabilities.
With all the models everything you need to get started comes
in one box: the model, radio, batteries and charger. So there
is no need to run back to your model shop for batteries or accessories,
just open the box, charge the battery, assemble the plane (this
for most means attach
the wing) and you can be flying in no time at all.All the models
come with an easy to use “Learn to fly” video C.D,
a detailed assembly guide, and an extensive range of spares is
available just in case! Each of these models is grouped into
three distinct skill |
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planes have everything needed to go flying in the box. |
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is
aimed at people that have never flown an radio-controlled model
before. Their designs and features are made to offer you the
maximum chance of success, and of course the best part is that
no prior experience is needed. Everything you need is in the
box, so you can just charge the batteries and fly.
Once you have got started with Zone 1 products, or if you have
some radio control experience you are ready for the next step.
models
take you to the next step with more powerful motors and greater
manoeuvrability. They offer increased control and the opportunity
to advance your skills. Equipped with larger control surfaces
Zone 2 models offer more thrilling flights and as you develop
your ability, you will be able to fly more challenging manoeuvres.
Due to the power and performance of these Zone 2 planes,
some experienced guidance from experienced flyers is recommended
to help keep you flying smoothly and safely but this will
depend on how well you take to the air!
models are designed
for Zone 1, Zone 2, or experienced pilots looking for
the ultimate the ultimate thrill. Equipped with larger,
more powerful motors these larger models allow you
to develop your skills further, and experiment with
more advanced aerobatics. Each model features the very
latest design, and the best part is that HobbyZone
backs these great products with an extensive range
of spares, just in case of a bumpy landing or mishap!
Due to their higher performance it is strongly recommended
that Zone 3 models should only be flown after previous
Zone1or2 experience has been gained or they are flown
with flying instructor assistance. |
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So when you’ve
progressed through a couple of HobbyZone levels you may want
to move away from the pod and boom formation of that type of
plane to something more conventional. ParkZone can take you to
another level with their fantastic range of ready to fly electric
models.
A range that includes the amazingly slow flying Slo-V, highly
detailed scale warbirds like the P51D Mustang and Supermarine
Spitfire, the beautiful Decathlon high wing cabin model, the
futuristic high speed delta wing F27B Stryker and the unbelievably
aerobatic Typhoon 3D. Whatever your style of flying, ParkZone
has a model that will fit the bill!
As with HobbyZone everything that you need to go flying is supplied
in one box. The model, radio, batteries and charger are all there
enabling you to get flying in as little time as possible. With
no gluing or painting and no radio installation to worry about
these ParkZone models can be ready to take to the air in the
time it takes to charge the flight battery. |
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| But that’s
not all. Some ParkZone and HobbyZone planes come equipped with
the “ X-port advantage” plug and play system that
allows for the addition of exciting features that most ready
to fly park flyers don’t have. The “X-Port” accessory
system lets you expand your flying experience to include exciting
functions like air-to-air combat, aerial drops with streamer
bombs, and even night flying. All you have to do is plug in the
optional X-Port module to experience a whole new dimension of
fun and excitement with your ParkZone model. For even more power
and performance a range of optional higher capacity battery packs
and high power motors are available that will let you take your
ParkZone plane, and the whole flying experience to the next level. |
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