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Welcome to the hobby of R/C model aviation! As a newcomer, it is easy to be overwhelmed and misguided on how to start. You've made a wise decision on seeking assistance.

Those that seek assistance in choosing the perfect first trainer and flight instruction have a better chance of success than those who try to train themselves.

As a student, you want a trainer aircraft that is stable and easy to control. Also, a trainer should be able to withstand the typical hard landings and "bumps" that is common while a student is learning. The trainer aircraft should be easily repaired, and or parts should be readily available.

We can confidently recommend the following fixed-winged (airplane) trainers to any student as we have trained students with each of the following:

Hobbico NexSTAR 46 Select 4-Channel RTF
http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXEXK2**&P=ML
This is a glow fuel (gas powered) model that is completely ready to fly. It includes the engine already mounted, radio and flight pack (servos & receiver) already installed. The only thing needed is fuel and field equipment, i.e. starter, glow battery, etc. We highly recommend this trainer package.

Hobbico NexSTAR Select Brushless EP Trainer RTF
http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXSGY1**&P=ML
This is an electric model that includes the DC motor already mounted, radio and flight pack (servos & receiver) already installed. Although this ad claims to be Ready to Fly (RTF), it does not include the batteries or charger required for the DC motor.

P-51 Mustang Mk II PTS RTF  by Hangar 9
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=HAN4425
This is an attractive trainer that also includes the engine and radio system already mounted. The only thing needed is fuel and field equipment, i.e. starter, glow battery, etc.

Each of the trainers above can be quickly and easily modified for advanced flight once the student gains experience. This allows these models to be the perfect second plane.

For rotory winged aircraft (helicopter) we recommend the Thunder Tiger Raptor 30. The Raptor 30 is a proven highly reliable and inexpensive trainer helicopter that is capable of advancing the student to advanced flying maneuvers. You may wish to visit our Flying Site to speak to active heli fliers to see what individuals are recommending as this technology changes rapidly. Also, an experienced flight instructor can recommend a trainer heli that he/she is comfortable with.

Additional items required:

Starter: http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXJC35&P=ML

Glow Plug Clip: http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXVJ48&P=V

Field Box: http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXL417&P=ML

Hobbico Ultra-Tote Field Box Complete Combo (this includes everything needed except fuel):
http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXL419&P=ML

You can also start with an inexpensive electric plane that is easy to fly and can be flown at most local neighborhood parks. Some good choices are available at: http://www.hobbyzoneairplanes.com/

If you are local to the north Delaware area, we have a full service hobby store in Stanton, Delaware that can usually stocks most of the items above. You can visit their website at: http://www.gfhobby.com/

Tower Hobbies has published an excellent website for the R/C newcomer. Be sure to take a look at: http://www.easyrc.com/airplanes/index.html

Lastly, you will want to join the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA). The AMA is the official national body for model aviation in the United States and provides modelers with the necessary insurance against property or personal injury liability. Membership also includes a great monthly magazine. AMA membership is required to fly and all local R/C flying fields, including the Delaware R/C Club. Additional information regarding AMA membership and benefits can be found at: http://www.modelaircraft.org/

Visit our Flying Field in Lums Pond State Park. You will see all that the Delaware R/C Club and the hobby of model aviation has to offer.


We provide flight instruction at no cost to our members! To request flight instruction, fill out the form below:

Your Name (Required):

Your Phone Number (Include Area Code):

Your Email Address
(Required):

Your age group:

Do you have a valid AMA membership?
Please note: AMA membership is required. You will receive membership info if not a member.

Airplane or Helicopter?

Aircraft Manufacturer:

Aircraft Model (Ex: Hobbico NexStar, Shuttle Challenge, Raptor 30,  etc):


Radio Manufacturer (Futaba, JR, Airtronics, etc):


Engine Manufacturer:

Engine Size:


Desired instruction schedule (ex: Saturday 11AM-2PM) or any
additional comments or inquires?


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