airplane

L-39 Ducted Fan Airplane Overview

fastie — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 00:43:25 -0500

Ready for action

The L-39 Ducted Fan ARF Airplane from ElectriFly is a sport scale ducted fan rc airplane with excellent performance and awesome scale looks. The power system included is an efficient and powerful in-line brushless motor mated with the ElectriFly "Hyperflow" system. As the videos show on the ElectriFly website, this is an easy to build and impressive performing model complete with a nice display stand for your office or home.

L-39 has a convenient magnetic hatch

Looking at the construction characteristics of this plane, it has some very nice features which contribute to it's sport flying capabilities. First, it is constructed of "Aerocell" foam which keeps the weight lower, but this foam also has good strength which equals an airplane with good strength-to-weight ratio. In modeling airplanes, this is key to top performance. A side benefit of this foam is that you can easiely repair a mishap with regular CA glue and not have to use foam safe CA as per ElectriFly's website. Second, the model has an excellent ducted-fan system complete called "Hyperflow" complete with using an Ammo brand brushless motor. These motors are efficient and you then have a powerful, yet light propulsion system. The L-39 has good attention to detail with it's nice finishing scale looks and also some detachable armaments for when you have the plane on it's stand. For the field the L-39 has easily accessed battery compartment with convenient magnetic latches. The only downside I see to this plane, is that you probably need to be an advanced intermediate to an expert RC pilot to handle the speed and snappy performance. Beginners should stay away from this model until they gain some flight time with a sport trainer. Be sure to checkout all the details and videos on ElectriFly's website.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Showing components in kit

Wingspan: 25 in (635 mm)
Wing Area: 141 in² (9.1 dm²)
Weight: 17.5-18.5 oz (500-520 g)
Wing Loading: 17.9-18.9 oz/ft² (55-58 g/dm²)
Length: 31 in (780 mm)
Includes: HyperFlow Ducted Fan Unit with 20-40-3500 Ammo In-Runner Brushless Motor
Requires: 3-channel radio w/3 micro servos, 25A brushless ESC, 910-1250mAh 11.1V LiPo battery

Flyzone SkyFly 2 Overview

fastie — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 10:00:00 -0500

Tactic 3-channel radio

New from FlyZone is an exciting trainer airplane called the SkyFly 2. What makes this airplane unique is the pusher style prop which provides the efficient thrust and also helps protect the propellor on the inevitable hard landings newcomers are bound to have during their first few flights. The SkyFly 2 comes as a complete ready-to-fly electric airplane so you will be ready to get to field in no time.

The SkyFly 2 is a complete RC airplane system including a 3-channel Radio system, a 380-size electric motor, a 8.4 V 900mAh NiMH Battery, electronic speed control with auto cut-off and a 12V DC Peak charger with AC adapter. With this complete kit the beginner is more focused on flying and learning the basics of RC flight. At the field, the beginner is further helped by the design features built into the model. It has rubber band attached wing which helps soften the damage to the wing in case of a rough landing. The pusher style motor design has the benefits of protecting the prop behind the front of the nose cone of the plane. In addition, the landing gear are built study and rugged to help with those hard landings. The fuselage is even designed to be flexible and more impact-resistant. The fuselage and wing also has nice graphics which also help in orienting the plane in flight. Go to the FlyZone planes SkyFly 2 for more details and some videos of the plane in action.

SkyFly 2 has a flexible and rugged fuselage

Model Specifications:

Wingspan: 42 in (1065mm)
Wing Area: 186 in² (12 dm²)
Weight: 19.2 oz (545 g)
Wing Loading: 14.9 oz/ft² (45 g/dm²)
Length: 30.75 in (780 mm)
Requires: .Eight AA batteries

ElectriFly Pluma Electric 3D Aerobat Plane Overview

fastie — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 10:00:00 -0500

ElectiFly Pluma Electric 3D Aerobat Plane

Pluma's Parts are laser cut

The Electifly Pluma Electric 3D Aerobat Plane by Great Planes is an exciting new entry in their collection of foamie electric airplanes. What makes this almost-ready-to-fly (ARF) airplane unique is it's strong solid fuselage which gives the plane excellent stiffness for fine aerobatic performance. This plane is ready for some serious 3D stunts with an experienced pilot on the stick in just about an hour with it's easy assembly. The ElectriFly Pluma is one exiting aerobatic plane for your next indoor or outdoor flying meet.

Strong Fuselage with room for a variety of batteries

Flat foamy performance is just an hour away as you prepare this exciting new electric plane from ElectriFly. It has excellent features to ensure exciting 3D aerobatics for the experienced pilot such as a strong center fuselage, laser cut parts, 3M Blenderm tape for great hinges for the control surfaces, and excellent graphics. The Pluma is also designed to use the Rimfire Outrunner motors for excellent performance both indoor and outdoor.

The following specs show the recommended set-up:

INDOOR:

Motor- Rimfire 28-22-1380 (GPMG4505)
Prop- GWS 8x4 (GWSQ2009) or APC 8x3.8 slo-flyer (APCQ5000)
Battery- GP Power Series 11.1v 300mAh LiPo 20c(GPMG0595)
ESC- GP Silver Series SS-8 brushless (GPMM1800)

OUTDOOR

Motor- Rimfire 28-26-1000 (GPMG4525)
Prop- GP 10x4.5 slo-flyer (GPMQ6660)
Battery- GP Power Series 11.1v 640mAh LiPo 20c(GPMG0601)
ESC- GP Silver Series SS-12 brushless (GPMM1810)

Electrifly Pluma is the right size for indoor or outdoor fun

Model Specification:

Stock Number: GPMA1130
Wingspan: 32.5 in (830 mm)
Wing Area: 518 in² (33.4 dm²)
Weight Range: 8.4-9.5 oz (240-270 g)
Wing Loading: 2.3-2.6 oz/ft² (7.2-8.1 g/dm²)
Length: 38 in (955 mm)
Requires: 4-channel radio w/3 micro servos, out-runner brushless motor, 8A brushless ESC (minimum) & 11.1V 300mAh LiPo battery.

Lanier S.E.5a EP ARF Plane Overview

fastie — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 05:00:00 -0500

Lanier S.E.5a EP ARF Plane

Top View of Lanier S.E.5a EP ARF Plane

The S.E.5a EP ARF Plane is one of the latest semi-scale military planes from Lanier RC. With a wingspan measuring 38", this is an impressible electric ARF based on a famous 1916 plane from WWI called the Scout Experimental Number 5 used by British Aces. Lanier finished this pre-built model nicely with excellent semi-scale features. This is sure to be a hit at your next military fun fly.

The S.E.5a is not just a nice replica of a WWI fighter, but featured with excellent flight characteristics. It has both upper and lower aerilons for great performance. Also, the plane comes 90% pre-built to get you to the field faster. Lanier's website further explains what is included:

Shows nice scale detail of pilot and machine gun

Lightweight, All Wood Airframe
All Wood Built-up Wing
Decals
Scale Like Wheels
Upper and Lower Wing Ailerons
Scale Like Guns
Scale Like Engine and exhaust
Jig Built With Lasercut Parts
Premium Iron-on Covering
All Hardware Included.

Lanier suggests to complete this model you will need a brushless motor, prop & spinner, battery, electronic speed control and an aircraft radio. Also see their website where you can download a manual to see further suggestions. This model not only is going to go together fast, but you will enjoy watching this military warplane showing it's scale looks and fun performance at your field.

Realistic wheel covers

Model Specifications

Wing Span: 38”
Overall Length: 29”
Wing Area: 508 Sq. In.
Flying Weight: 28 oz. (794g)
Engine: Brushless 400, 25A Speed Control
Radio: 4 - Channel Radio, 4 - Micro Servos

Mountain Models Dandy Electric RC Airplane Overview

fastie — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 10:00:00 -0500

Mountain Models builds some nice electric kits for the beginner and experienced models. Their models like the Dandy are not only popular with the new flyers, but even some models like the Magpie are not only great durable foam beginner platforms but used extensively by those interested in Aerial Photography.

Mountain Models Dandy Electric RC airplane

The Mountain Models Dandy Electric RC airplane is a great plane for those interested in learning about RC flying, but also wanting a lightweight balsa platform and electric propulsion. The flight characteristics are geared to relaxing, but enthusiast flight when you push the Dandy a bit harder making it a great beginner plane.

The Dandy Electric RC Airplane is a great beginner platform with the suggested geared 280 motor or the more experienced pilot could build it with a brushless motor. The components of the Dandy are nicely prepared and laser-cut for precise building and assembly. Although this is a kit, it is a great introduction to building models and will give the beginner an extra bit of pride to see her fly. You will have this model built fairly quick and be ready for a nice learning experience or if an experienced pilot you will easily be able to catch some thermals and enjoy an occasional leasurely flight.

Mountain Models Dandy in action

Specifications

Wingspan: 47"
Wing Area: 320 sq in
Length: 28 in
Weight: 12 oz All Up Weight
Wing Loading: ~5.4 oz/sq ft
Channels: 3 (Elevator, Rudder, Motor)

Kit Contents

Laser cut wood
Landing gear and wheels
Control system and connectors
Misc. hardware

Tools Needed

Sharp knife (#11 X-Acto)
Sealing Iron for covering
Sandpaper
Screwdrivers

Items Needed to Complete

1 Roll SoLite (Covering)
Thin and Thick CA
3+ Ch Radio
3+ Ch Receiver
2 ea. GWS Picos, HS-55, or similar servos

Good Power

GWS EPS100 A
9.6V 650 KAN NiMH Battery

More Power

70+ Watt Brushless Motor
3S 800+ MAh LiPo

See their website for some excellent videos of the Dandy in action and extras like the PDF manual and the extra parts offered by Mountain Models to complete your project.

Carl Goldberg Products Pitts Monster EP ARF Overview

fastie — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 05:00:00 -0500

Carl Goldberg Products Pitts Monster EP ARF

The Carl Goldberg Products Pitts Monster EP ARF is a great looking and performing aerobatic plane modeled after the original Pitts Model 12 Monster used in many aerobatic shows. This electric propulsion designed plane with a 38" wingspan will handle your brushless motor of choice with quality construction featuring all wood wings, aluminum landing gear and struts for the wings. This quality pre-built is ready for the experienced pilot to showcase some awesome 3D moves.

If you are a serious 3D plane flyer in need a new electric plane, you need to check this one out. This 38" plane has quality features, is mostly pre-built, and has wood one-wing construction as well as a fiberglass cowl. Aluminum is also used in the landing gear and in the cabanes for positive wing attachment. The wings also feature upper and lower aerilon control for excellent control of your model. With it's nicely done graphics and quality construction, this aerobatic plane is sure to be a hit at your next meet. Read about all the details and download the manual at the Pitts Monster EP ARF website.

Features

90% Pre-built
Painted cowl and wheel pants
Upper and Lower wing ailerons
Lightweight, all wood airframe
Built up wing assembly
One piece wing
Jig-built for accuracy & assembled from Laser Cut Parts
Decals
Premium iron-on covering

Items required for completion

Brushless Motor
Prop & Spinner
Battery
Speed control
Radio

Specifications

Stock Number: GBGA1026
Kit: 12026
Wingspan: 38" Top 36½" Bottom
Wing Area: 477 Sq. In.
Overall Length: 35"
Flying Weight: 1346g - 1408g (44 - 46 oz.)
Power: AXI 18/10 to 28/12
Radio: 4 - Channel
4 - Micro Servos (27oz. min)

Great Planes RealFlight Training System Overview

fastie — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 06:00:00 -0500

Great Planes RealFlight Training System

Great Planes is the home of one of the best flight simulators available for aspiring and seasoned RC pilots, but now they offer a new complete system with either a RC Helicopter or a RC Airplane included with the flight simulator software. The RealFlight Training System allows you to train on the simulator and then when you are ready the same model in simulation is now the real deal and ready for the field.

Included in the RealFlight Training System

Great Planes RealFlight Training System Cessna Version

Flyzone Cessna 182 Skylane

The RealFlight Training System comes packaged with either the Flyzone Cessna 182 Skylane RC Plane or the Heli-Max Axe EZ Helicopter. Also included is the RealFlight G3.5 R/C Flight Simulator. The flight simulator is a complete teaching tool with many models included for you to test your skills. There are built in videos with advice and suggestions to make your flying experience easier.

The RC Plane option includes the Flyzone Cessna 182 Skylane. This 4 channel model includes a 4 channel controller, battery pack (NiMH battery) and 12V peak DC charger. Also included is a spare propeller. The winspan is 35in, length 27 in and it has a 380 electric motor.

Contents of Heli-Max Axe EZ

Great Planes RealFlight Training System Heli-max Axe Version

Contents of Heli-Max Axe EZ

The RC Helicopter option includes the Heli-Max Axe EZ with counter-rotating blades which makes learning an RC helicopter easier and more fun. The system includes a 4 channel radio, 7.4 V 800 mAh Electrifly LiPo Battery, AC wall charger, spare blade set, spare landing gear, and training gear. Also, included is an instructional DVD to also speed you along in learning how to fly.

Top Flite AT-6 Texan ARF R/C Airplane Overview

fastie — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 06:00:00 -0500

Top Flite AT-6 Texan ARF In Action

The Top Flite AT-6 Texan ARF is an exciting entry into the scale warbirds category for Top Flite. This plane was originally a WWII trainer for many developing their skills for military combat. With it’s great scale looks and features, you will feel as if you are part of this history when you take the field and experience it’s flight characteristics. Top Flite calls this a “Gold Edition ARF” which means that there are many scale parts and features to add to the great looks of this military warbird.

Highlights of the Top Flite AT-6 Texan ARF R/C Airplane

Nicely covered parts with good scale looks.

The Top Flite AT-6 Texan ARF includes many nice features as explained by Top Flite including “built-up and sheeted wood construction with fiberglass cowl and aluminum spinner, sturdy mechanical retractable landing gear, historically accurate, high visibility WWII Navy trim scheme and assembles in 18-25 hours.” The AT-6 texan has nice scale features with it’s “Gold Edition” designation such as realistic wheel covers, replica radial engine, greenhouse canopy, and a great realistic color scheme. The plane can be powered by your choice of a 2-cycle or a 4-cycle engine and Top Flite suggests the O.S. Engines such as the 2-cycle 61FX or the 4-cycle 91S II. The planes performance is well suited to those jus moving up to the low winged category and with an interest in military warbirds. The plane features ailerons and flaps to help control your R/C plane with expert skill. See Top Flite’s complete details on their website:

Specifications:

Scale Detail

Stock Number:TOPA0965
Wingspan: 69 in (1755 mm)
Wing Area: 730 in² (47.1 dm²)
Weight: 8.5-9.5 lb (3.8-4.3 kg)
Wing Loading: 27-30 oz/ft² (82-91 g/dm²)
Length: 51 in (1295 mm)
Requires: 6-channel radio w/8 servos & 2-stroke .61cu in (10 cc) or 4-stroke .70-.91 cu in (11.5-15 cc) engine.

For more information, check out the Top Flight website.

Flyzone Beechcraft Staggerwing RTR Electric RC Airplane Overview

fastie — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 04:10:45 -0500

Flyzone Beechcraft Staggerwing

Flyzone has developed a new aviation classic that is a read-to-run electric airplane model based on the Beechcraft Staggerwing. This RC airplane is complete with all electronics already installed. In a few simple steps and with a charged battery you will be all set to fly this RC model of the “‘corporate jet’ of the ‘30s America”.

Details of the Flyzone Beechcraft Staggerwing RTR Electric RC Airplane

Showing complete system

The Flyzone Beechcraft Staggerwing comes ready-to-run with just a few simple assembly steps needed for assembling the wing and tail. This is an exciting model best suited for the intermediate to advanced flyer needing a fun and ready for action flyer with great scale looks and nice features. The Beechcraft Staggerwing includes a 3-channel FM radio, 3-channel receiver/ESC, 2 tactic micro servos, a 280 motor w/gear drive, Electrifly 900mAh battery, Electrifly 12V peak charger, and a spare propellor. The model does require 8 AA batteries. Additional features include lightweight foam parts, finished nicely with decals applied, and a small size for easy transport. The factory installed 280 motor and gear drive has ample power for a nice leisurely flight and shows good power for it’s climbs. In addition, even the pushrod assemblies are installed which will help provide good elevator and rudder response. This is a “Park Pilot Program” certified airplane. Go to the website for more details and some videos of the plane in action.

Showing 280 Motor and gear drive

Specifications:

Wingpsan: 31 in (790 mm)
Length: 25.75 in (655 mm)
Includes: Tactic™ 3-Channel 72MHz FM Radio System; 280 Motor w/Gear Drive; ElectriFly™ 7.2V 900mAh NiMH Battery; ElectriFly 12V Peak Charger; Spare Propeller
Requires: 8 “AA” batteries