For as long as humans have been flying, we’ve been fascinated with the idea of remote controlled flight. From Leonardo da Vinci’s aerial screw to modern drone technology, RC flight has captured our imaginations. If you’ve ever looked up in wonder at a model airplane buzzing overhead, you’ve felt the thrill and excitement of RC aviation. In this post, I’ll provide a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about RC airplanes and recommend our list of the best RC airplanes for beginner.
What is an RC Airplane?
RC stands for radio controlled. An RC airplane is an aircraft that is controlled remotely by a pilot on the ground using a handheld transmitter. The transmitter communicates with a receiver onboard the aircraft that relays the signals to the servos that move the control surfaces. This allows the pilot to fly the aircraft without being physically onboard.
RC airplanes come in all shapes and sizes, from small park flyers to large scale replicas of real life aircraft. Some are made from foam for durability, while others feature balsa wood or composite construction. They are powered by small electric or gas motors. The pilot uses the controls on the transmitter to steer the aircraft in flight by adjusting the ailerons, elevator, rudder and throttle.
List of The Best RC Airplanes For Beginner
Check out the thorough review of the best RC airplanes for beginner below.
1. HobbyZone AeroScout RC Airplane For Beginner
Built for first-time and training pilots, the HobbyZone AeroScout S 2 1.1m is the most durable, reliable and fun RC trainer on the market. Equipped with revolutionary SAFE (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) technology, this 1.1 meter EPO foam airplane protects against crashes by preventing overcontrol and loss of orientation. With the flip of a switch, pilots can choose between Beginner, Intermediate and Experienced flight modes to match their level.
The Ready-To-Fly version includes the Spektrum DXS 2.4GHz transmitter for interference-free control, a telemetry-capable ESC and four factory-installed servos. Smooth takeoffs and landings are assured with the tricycle landing gear, oversized tires and steerable nose wheel. This versatile “pusher” configured airplane can even fly off water using optional floats. Designed for learning and beyond, the AeroScout offers aerobatic capabilities for loops, rolls and inverted flight in Expert Mode.
Pros And Cons
2. E-flite Night Timber RC Airplane For Beginner
The E-flite Night Timber X 1.2m combines extreme 3D aerobatic performance with docile handling for all skill levels. This 1.2m wingspan airplane is equipped with high-torque metal geared servos and oversized control surfaces for incredible maneuverability. While the lightweight EPO foam build allows low-speed STOL performance, the 3S/4S power system enables wild aerobatics like loops, rolls and hovers. For hassle-free flying, it includes the option to enable SAFE Select flight envelope protection.
Integrated LED lights allow midnight flying, and the Avian Smart ESC provides real-time telemetry to compatible transmitters. Shock-absorbing landing gear with tundra-style wheels enables rough field maneuvers. The BNF basic version includes a 6-channel Spektrum receiver that accepts most major transmitters.
Pros And Cons
3. VOLANTEXRC RC Plane For Beginner
The VolantexRC P51 Mustang makes RC flight fun and easy for beginners and hobbyists. This 285mm wingspan foamy flies smoothly thanks to its gyro stabilization system, allowing for stable flight even in windy conditions. The 2.4GHz control system enables interference-free operation for flying multiple models simultaneously. The durable EPP foam build keeps it lightweight at 1.76oz but able to withstand minor crashes.
With 15-20 minutes of flight time per 3.7V 400mAh LiPo battery, there’s plenty of opportunity to perfect takeoffs and landings. The tricycle landing gear allows operation from grass, concrete and more. This PNP plane comes with a 2-channel transmitter, two LiPo batteries, spare parts and requires only 4 AA batteries to start flying.
Pros And Cons
4. HobbyZone Carbon Cub RC Airplane For Beginner
The HobbyZone Carbon Cub S 2 combines scale realism with innovative technology to create the ultimate trainer RC aircraft. This 1.3m wingspan model replicates the beloved CubCrafters Carbon Cub in an easy to fly platform. Equipped with advanced SAFE technology, it prevents crashes and assists with takeoffs, landings and recovery with just the push of a button. Three adjustable flight modes allow progression from beginner to expert aerobatics.
Smooth performance comes from a brushless power system and robust landing gear with oversized tires. Upgrading to the optional GPS module enables advanced automated flight modes like autoland and virtual fence. The BNF basic version includes four installed servos and a six channel Spektrum receiver ready to bind with your choice of full-range transmitter.
Pros And Cons
5. E-flite RC Airplane F-15 For Beginner
The E-flite F-15 Eagle 64mm brings the legendary air superiority fighter to life in an easy to fly electric RC model. This 15.7 inch wingspan foamy perfectly replicates the iconic McDonnell Douglas F-15 design in miniature form. Equipped with AS3X and SAFE Select technologies, it handles smoothly and resists tipping for mistake-free flying. The powerful 4S-compatible brushless motor and 11-blade 64mm ducted fan provide scale jet performance with vertical climbs and fast passes.
The removable bolt-on wings, tanks and missiles add to the realistic detail. The BNF basic version includes five installed 9-gram servos and a Spektrum 6-channel DSMX receiver for binding with your choice of full-range transmitter.
Pros And Cons
6. HobbyZone Sport Cub S 2 RC Airplane For Beginner
The HobbyZone Sport Cub S 2 makes learning to fly RC airplanes easy and fun. This ultra-micro 2.0 ounce trainer features a 24.3 inch wingspan and 16.3 inch length for effortless transport and flying. Equipped with SAFE technology, it prevents crashes by limiting bank and pitch angles in Beginner mode and assists with takeoffs and landings. Intermediate and Experienced modes allow progressively more maneuverability up to full aerobatics.
The included telemetry enables monitoring battery levels on compatible transmitters. Its EPS foam construction is durable yet lightweight. The BNF basic version has pre-installed servos, receiver and power system, just requiring a transmitter, 1S LiPo battery and charger. With its simple hand launches, smooth performance and foolproof features, the Sport Cub S 2 is the ideal way to teach yourself RC flight skills.
Pros And Cons
7. Top Race RC Plane For Beginner
The Top Race 4 Channel RC Airplane brings advanced stunt flying within reach of RC hobbyists. This lightweight 20” wingspan foamy is specially engineered for aerobatics with full control of throttle, rudder, elevator and ailerons. The 6-axis gyro stabilization system makes it easy to perform loops, flips and rolls at the push of a button even for beginners. Three modes adjust the sensitivity for smooth flying in expert mode up to full gyro stabilization in beginner mode.
The innovative prop saver design prevents motor damage in crashes. Operation is simple with the included 4-channel 2.4GHz controller. Just charge the 3.7V 360mAh LiPo battery and you’re ready for stunt flying using the expertly tuned power system. The foam EPP construction is extremely durable yet soft enough for indoor flying.
Pros And Cons
8. ANBURI RC Airplane For Beginner
The ANBURI 4-CH RC Airplane brings ease and excitement to RC flight. This 15” wingspan plane is specially crafted from lightweight EPO foam for smooth, stable outdoor flying. The 2.4GHz radio system offers interference-free control up to 656ft. Three modes cater to beginners with high gyro stabilization, intermediates with moderate assistance and experts performing aerobatics and stunts. Upgraded features like the receiver maintenance port, transparent cover and one-touch takeoff add convenience.
The powerful 8mm coreless motor provides 12 minutes of flight time per charge. Everything needed is included – just charge the 3.7V 360mAh LiPo battery and go flying. LEDs indicate when battery levels run low. For both kids and adults, this P47 Thunderbolt replica is an ideal introduction to RC flight. With its forgiveness for beginners, flexibility for experts and upgrades for greater enjoyment, the ANBURI 4-CH RC Airplane is ready to fly right out of the box.
Pros And Cons
9. LEAMBE RC Plane For Beginner
The LEAMBE 4 Channel RC Airplane delivers an easy yet exciting introduction to RC flight. This P-40 Warhawk replica features a 15” wingspan and durable EPP foam build that handles crashes while remaining lightweight. The included 2.4GHz controller provides interference-free command up to 656 ft. Three modes cater to beginners learning the controls, intermediate pilots perfecting maneuvers and experts performing stunts and aerobatics. The prop saver prevents damage if the propeller hits anything.
Each 3.7V 360mAh LiPo battery provides 15 minutes of flight time for extended adventures. Everything needed is included like batteries, extra propellers and a USB charger. LEDs indicate when battery power runs low. For both kids and adults, the LEAMBE RC plane is an ideal way to experience the thrill of flying your own scale warbird model.
Pros And Cons
How to Choose the Best RC Airplanes for Beginner?
As a new RC pilot, choosing your first airplane can be overwhelming. With so many models out there boasting different features and specifications, how do you pick the right one? Don’t worry, in this post I’ll guide you step-by-step through the key factors to consider when selecting the best RC airplane for beginners. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for to find the perfect trainer plane to learn on.
1. Pick a Training Airplane First
The first rule when choosing your first RC plane is to select a true trainer model. Trainer planes are designed specifically for new pilots. They have gentle flight characteristics, are easy to control, and are very forgiving of mistakes. This is critical when you’re just learning to fly, as it will minimize crashes and damage as you get comfortable with the controls.
Great beginner planes like the HobbyZone Champ or Hangar 9 Alpha Trainer are ideal. Look for features like flat bottom wings for stability, tricycle landing gear for controlled ground handling, and slower flying speeds. Avoid advanced aerobatic planes to start. As a beginner, a basic trainer will be the safest way to have fun and progress your skills.
2. Consider Your Budget
There’s a wide range of RC planes at different price points. As a new pilot, you’ll want to look in the $100 to $300 range for a capable trainer that won’t break the bank. This class of plane will have great flight capabilities and durability without costing a fortune. Leave the elaborate $1000+ scale replicas until you’ve got some experience under your belt.
Of course you’ll also need to budget for basic gear like a transmitter, batteries and chargers. But resist the urge to buy expensive fancy gear as a beginner. Focus your spending on the plane itself and get quality basic equipment for now.
3. Understand the Power Source
One key choice to make is whether you want a battery-powered electric RC plane, or one that runs on fuel. For your first plane, I strongly recommend going electric. Electric power systems are much simpler to operate and maintain compared to combustion engines. You’ll avoid hassles like starting the motor, engine maintenance, and cleaning oily residue.
With electric planes, you simply recharge the flight batteries between flying sessions. High quality LiPo batteries provide plenty of power. Trainers like the ParkZone T-28 run for 5-7 minutes per battery which is ample time to learn.
4. Look for RTF or BNF Models
As a beginner, you’ll want to look for RTF (ready-to-fly) or BNF (bind-n-fly) airplanes. This means they come fully assembled and just need minor setup like charging the batteries. RTF models even include the transmitter. This eliminates the need to buy and assemble all the components separately.
With an RTF or BNF trainer, you can be up and flying within an hour of opening the box. Less time building means more time flying and practicing. Don’t take on major scratch builds or kits until you know your skills.
5. Seek Stability and Simplicity
The flight dynamics are key when choosing a first airplane. Look for models described as “stable” and “forgiving”. Avoid anything labeled as “twitchy”, “fast” or “for advanced pilots”. You want an aircraft with gentle handling that gives you time to think and respond as you fly.
Similarly, seek out simple designs over complex ones. A basic high-wing monoplane trainer is ideal starting out. Models with complex multi-wing configurations or detailed scale features add challenges you just don’t need at this stage.
By following these guidelines, any novice can select the perfect RC airplane to learn on. Don’t let the dizzying array of choices intimidate you. Focus on a stable, electric powered trainer in your budget and you’ll be flying in no time! The right first plane will make your introduction to RC a fun, rewarding and safe journey.
Frequently Asked Questions When Picking the Best RC Airplanes for Beginners
1. What is the best first RC airplane for a beginner to learn with?
For your very first RC plane, you’ll want to choose a trainer aircraft designed specifically for beginners. The Hangar 9 Alpha Trainer or HobbyZone Champ are great ready-to-fly choices. Look for a high-wing monoplane model that is stable and forgiving. You want gentle flight characteristics while you learn the controls.
2. Should I build a model airplane kit for my first plane?
It’s best to avoid complex model kits or scratch builds when just starting out. Get experience flying a pre-built RTF (ready-to-fly) trainer before attempting to build from plans or a kit. This will let you spend more time flying and less time assembling.
3. How expensive do RC airplanes have to be for a beginner?
You can get excellent trainer RC airplanes for $100-$300 as a beginner. This class provides great performance and durability without breaking the bank. You don’t need fancy features or scale details. Focus your budget on a quality trainer model before upgrading to pricier planes.
4. Is it hard to fly and control an RC airplane as a beginner?
With the right aircraft choice, RC flight can be learned pretty quickly. Using a radio transmitter to control the aircraft will feel foreign at first. But with an instructor’s help and using a flight simulator, you’ll get the hang of the controls with practice. Taking it slow and making small inputs is key.
5. Where is the best place to fly a model airplane safely?
Find a large open area like an RC airfield, empty soccer field or park to learn at. The space should be free of trees, power lines, buildings and people. Consult local laws and ordinances for where RC flight is permitted and safe in your area.
6. How long does the battery last in electric RC airplanes?
Most electric RC trainer planes will give you 5-10 minutes of flight time per battery charge. Budget-friendly LiPo battery packs are commonly used. Stock up on a few spare batteries so you can fly multiple times before recharging. Just land safely before the battery is depleted.
7. What precautions should I take when using LiPo batteries?
Lithium Polymer batteries need special care. Never over-discharge them. Also avoid puncturing the cells or getting them wet – they can ignite. Use a protective case and never leave batteries unattended when charging. Take precautions and they are safe.
8. Can you fly RC planes at night or is it too dangerous?
Night flying is possible but only recommended for very experienced RC pilots. As a beginner, only fly during the daytime in good visibility. At night, it’s much harder to orient yourself and keep the aircraft within line-of-sight. Get a lot of practice during daylight before attempting after dark.
9. How often will I need to repair or replace parts on a foam trainer plane?
The benefit of foam planes for new pilots is they are very durable if you have minor crashes. They may require occasional minor repairs but you can likely fly for several months before any major component needs replacement. Just inspect closely after each flight and fix what’s needed.
Final Thoughts
Getting started in the exciting hobby of RC aviation is much simpler than you may think. By choosing a stable trainer model suited for beginners, there is no need to feel intimidated about learning to fly. Be sure to pick an appropriate open location for flying, take precautions with batteries, and get assistance from an experienced pilot early on.
The technology and durability of today’s RC aircraft allow new pilots to get hands-on flight experience quickly. Follow the guidelines above and you’ll be airborne in no time. RC flying delivers thrilling freedom and excitement. With the right airplane and mindset, anyone can learn the skills to enjoy this rewarding hobby.
Enjoyed this guide of the best RC airplanes for beginner? Then be sure to check out our other RC guides.