How do I learn to fly?

Flight training is offered free of charge to any SMRCF member. Instructors are at the SMRCF field regularly and are available to assist you if you request it. For your safety and that of others, new students and non-soloed pilots are required to fly with an instructor until you have been Soloed through the training program.

To arrange a time with an instructor send an email to training@smrcf.com

What are some good websites to learn about RC?

What do I need to get started?

Check out this list of 'must haves' and 'nice to haves' we put together.

I have a plane but I am not an AMA or SMRCF member - can I still fly?

Yes, however you must fly with one of our designated AMA Intro Pilots. This special program offered by the AMA allows a non-member to fly with a designated pilot for a period of 60 days. This allows the student to determine RC is really for them and provide time to apply for their AMA card.

The intro pilots for SMRCF are: Marcio Jorge, Ralph Knight, and Erik Newsholme. You will most likely find one of them at the field most any day. If you do not see them, feel free to contact us to arrange a time.

What is a good trainer airplane?

Many great trainers are currently on the market - both in ARF and kit form. Some of them even come ready to fly (RTF) - complete with the engine and radio installed for you. Excellent ARF trainers include:

What is a good engine?

Today's RC engines are very reliable and dependable if treated well. For most trainer aircraft, a 40 sized two-stroke is required. Most 40 sized aircraft will take a 10-6 propeller but consult the manual or an experienced flyer final selection. Good power choices include:

What is a good radio system or brand?

Technological advances have greatly benefitted the radio control industry. The three main brands (Futaba, JR, and Hitec) are all very common at the flying field. If you desire to use a buddy-box system, you want to make sure you get the same brand as your instructor. All a trainer requires is a basic 4 channel transmitter. However, because prices for multi-channel systems not much more, you may want to purchase a higher end radio if you intend to stay in the hobby. You may not use all the features right away but they will be there for you when you need them (without having to buy a new radio).

Basic 4 channel radios