Choosing Your First RC Airplane: A Beginner’s Guide

Starting in RC aviation is exciting—and a bit overwhelming. The best way to build confidence is to pick a model that forgives mistakes and rewards proper technique.

Trainer vs. Sport vs. Warbird

Trainers with high wings and dihedral self-correct in flight, making them ideal for new pilots. Sport models are more agile and can come later. Warbirds look amazing but react quickly and stall abruptly—save them for after you master the basics.

Recommended Size and Power

• Wingspan: 1.1–1.4 m (42–55 in) is stable but still portable.
• Power: Modest brushless setup with 3S LiPo is plenty for training.
• Prop: Match manufacturer recommendations; avoid over-propping.

Radio & Failsafe

Use a modern radio with model memory and basic telemetry. Program dual rates and expo. Set failsafe to throttle cut and slight up-elevator for a safe descent if signal is lost.

Practice Plan

Start with a few sessions on a simulator, then move to the field with an instructor and a buddy-box. Keep your first flights short, focusing on straight-and-level, gentle turns, and landing approaches.

Need help picking the right trainer and radio? Contact our team—we’ll set you up for success.