Welcome to the hobby of R/C model aviation! As a newcomer, it is easy to be overwhelmed and frustrated. That's why we're here to help.
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'll 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 repairable, and or parts should be readily available. We can confidently recommend the E-flite Apprentice STS 1.5M with SAFE DXe Transmitter to any student as we have trained students with this aircraft. This plane comes with everything a student would need, however, you will want to purchase extra lipo batteries as the battery supplied will provide up to 5 - 6 minutes of flight time and takes over an hour to fully charge. We recommend that a student have at least 3 lipo batteries and a field charger to charge batteries at the field.
You'll need to join the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA). 'Full AMA membership' is required to fly at all local R/C flying fields, including the Delaware R/C Club. The AMA is the official national body for model aviation in the US. Membership includes property and personal injury insurance.
Next, you'll want to visit the field. You can meet the members, ask questions, and we can find out what you're interested in and help you get started. Don't want to wait? Send us a note using the form below.