One of my interests post retirement is to learn how to fly radio controlled model planes. I have one plane which I recently just finished mounting the servos and radio into, and this fall the plan is to actually try to get some air time in with one of the local clubs. The two that are most convenient for me are CRAMS, and the Chinook Winds clubs. Both clubs seem to have good facilities and also good reputations so it should be fun.
When you are learning, you do tend to make more than the occasional ‘hard’ landing , so having a few spare parts is not a bad idea. My Dad has been flying model aircraft for years, and in fact built the one I already have, so when he recently decided to do a bit of a cleanup in his garage I jumped at the chance to pick up a few bits and pieces. I was not disappointed – the selection was closer to being a small squadron than just some ‘parts’, and with them came a number of well used but serviceable engines, radios, servos and useful odds and ends such as extra wings for the model I have, as well as an extra fuselage. In the mix was an electrically powered R/C sailplane, which brought back many memories. Every glider I ever built and flew as a teenager seemed unfailingly able to find a tree to land in. Presumably with the radio control the odds will be more in my favour !
One plane I was especially pleased to take delivery of was one that we had bought for him as a kit many Christmas’ ago. It is a model of a WWII Bell P39 Aircobra fighter and it is pictured to the right sitting in his backyard. To be honest, I will probably make a static display of it and hang it from the ceiling of my den rather than risk crashing it, as he did a really nice job of building it and it has already had quite a bit of time in the air.
At the least, it will be a nice conversation piece, and as well also a nice keepsake.