LEARN TO FLY RADIO CONTROL
WITHOUT CRASHING
Are you interested in learning about model aviation and in particular, “radio control”? If so, you’ve come to the right place to get started
The Texoma Radio Control Modelers like other local Radio Control Clubs around the DFW Metroplex offer an Intro Pilot program.
Learn With Texoma Radio Modelers
The Intro Pilot Program
With Texoma RC, we have several AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics) Registered IP (Instructor Pilots) that can assist and mentor you while learning all about the hobby without cost.
Under the Intro Pilot Mentor (IPM) program, you can fly with their AMA Insurance Coverage on a buddy box for up to 90 days.
Our club or the Instructor Pilot will often have a plane and transmitter that they will use to teach you; unless, you would like to use your own. There is no cost or requirement to join our club during this introduction or learning period. Or, after the lessons, our take is we want our students to excel in this hobby at their own pace, location, and financial capabilities. We’re always available to help out with refresher lessons as needed.
Here, one of our Texoma RC Instructors is providing instruction to a young 7 Year old at the Apache Pass Annual Fly-In.
The IPM can show and instruct you on how to takeoff, to fly, and eventually how to land an airplane. The IPM will introduce you to the equipment; introduce you to all types of model aviation at the flying field and show you the advantages of different control systems. Systems that escalate from 3 channels to 20 or more depending on the complexity of the way an aircraft is setup. It all depends on where you want to go.
Texoma RC goals remain as a contributor to the aspect of the AMA & model aviation so that you learn to fly and to help you enjoy the hobby for a lifetime wherever you go.
INFORMATION FOR PARENTS
Welcome to the FUN hobby & skills flying RC airplanes!
On a computer there are free basic RC flying simulator apps. As the instructor, it is always suggested to new students to practice and learn the controls of a transmitter (radio) and the basics on how RC airplanes fly. There is a link at the bottom of this page to a video made by Real-Flight – Flight Simulators (one of the best around) that provides visual narration to enhance the learning process.
Our instructor(s) will also teach these same elements in the ground school. A lesson usually runs one hour; unless, if the student is really having a lot of FUN we stay longer!
Parents, family, friends and guests are always welcome to watch. It is recommended to bring a chair and a beverage to stay hydrated!
> All the RC flight instructor lessons are free.
Our instructors, enjoy the hobby while promoting the FUN & Enthusiasm of RC Flying. All while observing their students learning the hobby of RC model aviation and learning a valuable skill that they will use for the rest of their life! Some students become commercial pilots while others branch off into other aviation endeavors.
It’s the skills you learn as you progress in flying.
COSTS FOR ENTRY LEVEL RC AIRCRAFT
In terms of costs; there are several levels to begin with. At Texoma RC, all the members started out with minimal cost systems so that we could learn and grow into the hobby and not jump blindly in to areas we weren’t ready for.
BASELINE ENTRY
That said, probably the easiest entry point is with the Horizon Hobby XCub at $99 for the entire system. That’s right, nothing else is needed to fly this little guy other than skills learned from one of our mentors. As a starting point, this lets the student decide whether this is really their hobby or passion to pursue.
ENHANCED ENTRY
The next advancement level is a larger aircraft with a more enhanced control box that still uses the same flight features but expands on flight duration and skill level options. This is the Apprentice STS 1.5M (60 inch wingspan). This is the jump point into the hobby for the passionate flyer. The plane comes with a good remote; but, will need a battery and at least a USB-C charger to begin with. There is an option to add on a Landing Assist Module for $50 – but not necessary if the student is comfortable on landings. The base cost for this is $400.
BUYING USED
Please note, that most of these planes can be obtained used from individuals on eBay or similar sites and from other local RC Flyers who have already moved up and beyond. Don’t feel that it must be new; but, have an experienced flyer with you if you choose to consider a used item. It helps with finding out if its flight-worthy.
Both Planes Can be Obtained from https://www.horizonhobby.com/
HOW IT'S DONE - THE TRAINING METHOD
> Two transmitter radios using a wireless “buddy box” system.
> Instructor gets the plane to a safe altitude…
> Instructor holds the master radio
> Student holds the other (buddy) radio.
> Instructor fly’s the plane and then pushes (holds) a control handoff button on the master radio
> The student takes over flying the plane while receiving positive feedback from the instructor
> If the student gets in trouble, the instructor simply releases the button and takes over.
* No “new” pilot stress.
* No “plane” crashes!