Tips For a Newbie

[Frayne]

Hi everyone!

I’m a long time flight simmer, and I’ve had the itch to pick up another hobby from my childhood that I haven’t touched since, RC aviation. I’m hoping to get some guidance on how to do this right, to set myself up for success as much as possible.

I’m brand new to this, but I’ve done a little research. Sorry in advance for my ignorance.

I’ve ordered RealFflight Evolution with the transmitter to try out a simulator before investing further. I know this isn’t the real thing, but the AMA flying clubs near me are not that close. I intend to use the sim to brush up on my skills away from the field as well. Fortunately, being in SC means I can fly pretty much year round, I think.

I’ve also taken the FAA TRUST test, but I have not yet registered as a UAS pilot since I don’t have a plane to register with. Am I correct on this, or can I register before buying an aircraft? The FAADroneZone site was unclear about this.

If I take to the hobby like I think I will, I intend buy a beginner RTF kit, register with the AMA, and apply to my local club. I will probably get a a Remote ID module as well so that I can fly locally.

I’m sure this will spark debate, but I’ve got my eye on purchasing the 1.3m HobbyZone Carbon Cub, the yellow and silver one. I intend to keep it long term and eventually get a set of floats, but that could change.

I’ve made myself a shopping list of things I plan on buying down the line as well. A better transmitters, more batteries, goal planes to step up to, that sort of thing.

In general, am I on the right track here? Any tips for someone brand new to this?

[Evan D]

You don't need a plane, you are registering yourself as a recreational pilot. Unless you are flying planes less than a half pound you'll need the RID module since you are not planning on flying at a FRIA site. The cub is a good choice. I usually recommend an Apprentice (you can get floats for it too) but the cub is good. If you think you'll be in this any length of time get a "better" radio. I do like Spektrum but others will say to get other brands, get at least 8ch. Yes to extra batteries. I don't like the eflite or spektrum batteries but getting smart batteries gets you telemetry. Get a good charger that you can use on AC (house) or DC (car or field) and though you won't need it right away get one that can do 6S and a 5A charge.

Visiting a club does help answer the millions of questions you don't even know you have yet.

And welcome to the forums!

[Frayne]

freakbrother glad I’m not the only one that was a bit confused by the site and the regs. The last time I picked up a RC plane 25 years ago when I was a kid, there were none! I understood that I’m registering myself, but I was under the impression that even though I’m only getting one number to share with all planes, I’d still have to mark my planes with that number. If they’re between 250g and 55 lbs, and I’m registering as a recreational pilot, I don’t need to mark my planes? Do I need to mark them if running the Remote ID transmitter outside a FRIA site?

Evan D I’m looking at Spektrum stuff but that’s mostly because it seems there’s the most information out there that’s easy to find. I’m open to other ideas of course. I’ll probably eventually go for a 8 channel radio because I can’t see myself needing more. But who knows…

Does it make sense to register with the AMA and a club before buying a plane?

Thanks for the warm welcome! :)

[Evan D]

You don’t need to mark you plane under 250g and I believe you don’t need a RID (I only fly at a FRIA site).

The big thing about joining the AMA is the insurance they provide if something happens and not just at a AMA club field. Most clubs or parks that allow flying require AMA or other insurance that specifically covers model aircraft. If you are flying on your own property or something similar it may be okay to not join understanding the risk.

My opinion is it’s a really good idea to visit a club. They have years of experience (I’ve been flying about 60 years) and can help with not only questions about planes and radios but about the laws, rules, guidelines etc near you. Most also have club trainers and instructors and most will even let you get free instruction without joining for at least a few times.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions and remember you don’t know what you don’t know :)

[Frayne]

You don’t need to mark you plane under 250g and I believe you don’t need a RID (I only fly at a FRIA site).

if I understood correctly, aircraft over 250g need RID if flying outside a FRIA site. I could be wrong though.

I may need to read up on the insurance more. I was under the impression that it only covers damages at FRIA sites but it makes sense that it would cover me anywhere I can legally fly safely.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions and remember you don’t know what you don’t know :)

That’s why I’m here! I’ll look into the nearby club as well. Thanks so much for the advice!

[Frayne]

We’re on the same page! Come to find out that Triple Tree isn’t too far from me, so I might start there. It’s far enough away that I wont be able to get out there every weekend, but often enough.

[Evan D]

DO they fly weekends there now? Used to be just special occasions or we could get the key from Kirby before he died.

[Frayne]

Good question, that's something I definitely want in a club.