FAQ

Radio Control Modeling frequently asked questions

Our Frequently Asked questions are answered in the text that follows.

If you have another question about Radio Control Modeling, Please use our contact form or see us at the field.

  • How do I become a member?
  • What does it cost to fly a radio control model and what equipment should I start with.
  • Where is your field?
  • Where/When does the club hold its monthly meetings?
  • Do I have to register my aircraft?
  • Can I fly rockets or turbine engines at the flying field?
  • Do you have a car or other ground vehicle track?
  • Do we have instructors available?
  • Is the club primarily Advanced, Intermediate or beginner level?

How to become a member of the Washington R/C flyers

What does it cost to fly an RC model and what equipment should I start with.

This is a difficult question to answer. If you want to start out basic (and that is recommended) with minimal cost, a Ready To Fly setup can get you started for $150 to $400. These planes will fly well and typically have stabilization features that will get you in the air, teach you the basics of RC flight and get you past the first few crashes with minimal expense. An R/C flight simulator can be a great tool to shorten the learning curve but is not a necessity to get started. Below are recommendations for equipment. There are many options out there, some cheaper, some more expensive. Name brand equipment is extremely reliable now and should last for many years barring the occasional mishap. Knockoff or used gear should be approached with caution and maybe some advice from experienced flyers.

  • AeroScout S 2 1.1m RTF Basic with SAFE $199
  • 2nd battery for extended flying time – $15 to $30 (must have connector compatible with plane and charger)
  • Lipo battery charger – $50 to $100 typical)
  • Battery storage and charging bag – fireproof $15
  • Spare parts (prop, spinner, glue, etc.) $20
  • Simulator – optional – $50 to $200

Many new flyers progress quickly and get excited to make the next step. That step is typically more expensive and usually involves bigger, faster, and more aerobatic types of airplanes.

Selection of your next plane should be a personal decision based on your own experience flying. Get some input from other flyers and reviews from reputable sources.

For a good next step, we might recommend the following or similar:

  • Valiant 1.3m BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select $229
  • or Timber X 1.2m BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select $319
  • 6 channel programable radio – Spectrum DX6e transmitter $249 – this transmitter can be used for future planes as well.
  • 1 or 2 batteries – compatible with aircraft connector $30 to $60 – (consider equipment that is compatible with previous plane batteries to reduce cost and simplify maintenance)
  • Battery storage and charging bag – from above $15
  • Battery charger – $50 to $100 – from above

Beyond the trainer level of aircraft the Sky is the limit depending on your interests, level of confidence, and of course budget. If you want to go all in you are looking at $750 or more. Simulators, Multi-functional transmitters, telemetry receivers, Aerobatic aircraft, high capacity battery chargers and batteries, etc. Talk to local flyers, hobby shop staff and read the reviews for your next decisions. Above all don’t be afraid to ask for some help at the field. RC flyers are typically eager to help and make suggestions if you ask! Getting help in the beginning will improve your hobby experience!

Where is your field? Our field location and description is on the Home Page. But here is a Map!

Where/When does the club hold its monthly meetings? From May to October we hold the meetings at the field shelter (weather permitting). November to April we hold the meetings at an indoor location announced each fall. Meetings start at 6:30pm, usually run about an hour, and are on the second Tuesday of the month. 2024/2025 winter meetings will be held at the Mariachi Mexican restaurant in Washington, Il. Come at 5:30pm if you wish to eat before the meeting; Meeting will still begin at 6:30pm.

Do I have to register my aircraft? Any drone aircraft over .55 lbs total weight must be identified and the operator must register with the FAA. Flyers must also complete the Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). Drones not flown at a FRIA location must also have a Remote ID module installed.

Can I fly Rockets or Turbine engines at the flying field? No – the uncontrolled nature of rockets and speed and noise level of turbines does not adhere to our flying/safety rules and are therefore not allowed.

Do you have a car or other ground vehicle track? No – WRCF is an aircraft only club and we do not have the facilities for ground Radio Control vehicles.

Do we have instructors available? While we do not have a formal training program, several of our advanced members help new members get started in the hobby. Contact the club and arrange for a meeting at the field. Aircraft and transmitter setup and flying assistance can be arranged.

Is the club primarily Advanced, Intermediate or beginner level? Although we are only 22 members for the 2024 season, we have members at all levels of flying experience. Even though you may be a beginner, we will make you feel right at home. Come fly with us – you will have a good time!