Resources
Getting Started in R/C
A great resource for learning the basics of RC airplanes or drones and for getting started in this hobby is the online community at www.FliteTest.com. They sell low cost foam board airframe kits and provide free plans for those who wish to source their own materials. Check out the Get Started links at their site or click the logo below. Also consider their STEM resources for educators.
NOTE: If you are new to RC, for the safety of others, yourself, your aircraft, and property we ask that you do NOT fly at our field without an instructor till you have mastered basic control of your aircraft. The instructor will tell you when you have reached that point.
To help new flyers have a successful start into the hobby we provide free of charge flight instructors for airplanes, helicopters and drones. The instructors will make suggestions on what equipment to buy. So, before you buy anything please contact us. First time pilots should typically start with an easy to fly trainer style airplane and work up from there. Resist the temptation to start with the cool looking jets or warbirds since they are usually intended for experienced pilots and you WILL crash while learning.
Flight simulators are a valuable tool for learning. They interface with your computer and do a great job of creating life like RC Flying.
It takes approximately 6, 10 minute, lessons to learn how to fly safely, then a lifetime to master it.
Beginner Guides & Tutorials
-
Flite Test Beginner Section
A three-step guide to choosing, building, and flying your first RC airplane, complete with videos and community support.
URL: https://beginner.flitetest.com/ -
Academy of Model Aeronautics – Help for the Newer RC Pilot
AMA’s Sure-Start Guide offers articles and videos on basic RC flight principles, safety, and equipment selection.
URL: https://www.modelaircraft.org/help-newer-rc-pilot -
Instructables – Beginners Guide to Radio Control Airplanes
A step-by-step tutorial on RC aircraft basics, from component overview to choosing your first model.
URL: https://www.instructables.com/Beginners-Guide-to-Radio-Control-Airplanes/ -
The Park Pilot – Getting Started in RC
Covers safety considerations, AMA Flight School links, and tips for selecting flying sites.
URL: https://www.theparkpilot.org/getting-started-in-rc -
Flite Test – 3 Essential Tips for Training New RC Pilots
Insightful advice on choosing expendable trainer planes, teaching fundamentals, and building confidence.
URL: https://www.flitetest.com/articles/3-essential-tips-for-training-new-rc-pilots -
AMA Flight School – How to Get Started in Flying RC Airplanes
Step-by-step advice on finding fields, meeting instructors, and planning your first flights.
URL: https://www.amaflightschool.org/getstarted/how-do-i-get-started-flying-remote-control-rc-model-airplanes -
AMA – Learn to Fly
An overview of AMA’s learning pathways, including field visits, mentor programs, and safety codes.
URL: https://www.modelaircraft.org/learn-fly
Community Forums & Advice
-
RC Groups – Top 5 Tips for Beginner RC Pilots
A community forum thread sharing essential beginner tips, including the importance of simulators and trainer planes.
URL: https://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?3846757-Top-5-Tips-for-Beginner-RC-Pilots -
Reddit – Any RC Plane Recommendations for a Beginner?
Community-sourced advice on the best first-flight kits and building vs. ready-to-fly options.
URL: https://www.reddit.com/r/RCPlanes/comments/100fv9p/any_rc_plane_recommendations_for_a_beginner/
Training Programs & Flight Schools
-
AMA Introductory Pilot Program
A free 90-day trial allowing beginners to fly under supervision at AMA chartered fields.
URL: https://www.modelaircraft.org/clubs/introductory-pilot-program/introductory-pilot-program -
Horizon Hobby Flight School
Connects new pilots with certified RC flight coaches for hands-on lessons and confidence building.
URL: https://www.realflight.com/flight-school.html
Simulators & Practice Tools
-
RealFlight RC Flight Simulator
Industry-leading simulator software with virtual instructor lessons, ideal for honing skills without risk.
URL: https://www.realflight.com/ -
FPV Freerider
An affordable FPV quadcopter racing simulator offering LOS and FPV flight modes for beginner drone pilots.
URL: https://fpv-freerider.itch.io/fpv-freerider -
VelociDrone FPV Racing Simulator
A realistic drone racing sim used by professionals to practice track layouts and freestyle tricks.
URL: https://www.velocidrone.com/
