Learning to fly RC aircraft;
So maybe you have read some modeling magazines, talked with a friend who flies, and are thinking R/C models might be fun! Or you have already taken the big plunge, and bought/built your first R/C model, and now need to get it in the air.
The Tri-City RC Modelers has a group of highly experienced flight instructors that are available, free of charge, to new club members for primary flight training as well as existing members that would like a refresher or advanced training. In addition, instructors are available to check out new aircraft, radios, etc. and provide preflight set up verification prior to a first flight.
Set up of an aircraft and radio system can be relatively simple or extremely complicated. There are many checks required to be completed to ensure the system is flight ready. This process can take many hours depending on the aircraft, the radio, and the programming required to ensure a safe flight. It is better to make arrangements to meet somewhere other than the field to perform these checks. Some of the checks and set up require specialized equipment; example balancing the aircraft for center of gravity and setting up the control surface throws, binding the receiver to the radio and them performing the radio set up. Sometimes this can be done in 1-2 hours and in other cases it can take up most of a day or two.
Students must call an instructor and arrange for a time to meet. A primary meeting will be held with the student to evaluate their current level of skill and examine the equipment to be used. Showing up at the field and hoping an instructor will be there to help you is not a good idea. Club instructors may be at the field, may have a full student load for the day or may be there for a day of flying their own equipment. Although most instructors and members are willing to help out new pilots, making appointments and prior arrangements with an instructor is the best approach.
Please respect the instructors time and availability. If you cannot make an appointment, please call the instructor and reschedule. Club policy (insurance driven) requires primary flight instruction be given by club designated instructors.
Students are encouraged to utilize as many instructors as possible during the training process. Exposure to different methods and techniques is the best way to become a skilled pilot! Learning the ins and outs of RC flying from a seasoned, qualified RC flight instructor will better your chances of become a responsible and safe pilot.
Member wishes to become a club instructor, should contact the, Head Instructor.
| Head Instructor | Lyle Laughery | |
| Fixed Wing | Brett Bowen | (509) 302-5242 |
| Steve Sterling | (509) 783-1143 | |
| Bill Bowen | (509) 222-4262 | |
| Gordon Anderson | (509) 628-6851 (509) 588-5410 | |
| Jim Anderson | (509) 554-2711 | |
| Larry Salsberry | (509) 378-0851 | |
| Electric Only | Scott Page | Message |
| Rotory Wing | Brett Bowen | (509) 302-5242 |
TCRCM, Hobby Town and Horizon Hobbies hosted a learn to fly day, August 21. The day was a huge success with lots of visitors interested in model aviation attending. Many members of the club brought out different aircraft for all to see. The clubs instructors set up a flight line dedicated to those who wanted to try their skills at flying a model airplane.
NBC Right Now news reporter/anchor, Jordan Tolbert was on site to report on the days events and even tried her hands at flying. Click the link below to be redirected to the news feed and video.
Tri-City R/C Modelers 