Shortfinals did not queue a diary this eveing, so I am filling in.
Most everyone likes models, and model airplanes have captured the imagination for well over a hundred years. Many of the early aviation experimenters built models and tested them, including the Wright Brothers. Most early airplanes were free flight, meaning they were launched and had no control from the ground. There are still free flight competetions, both indoor and outdoor.
Later, in the 1940s, control line flying became popular, reaching its peak in the 1950s and 60s. Control line planes are flown by a pilot using long thin wires to operate the controls. Control line is still being flown, and there are competitions, including stunt, speed and combat.
When Citizen's Band radio was created, radio control took off (pun intended). Today, it is one of the most popular of model hobbies. Radio control has come to include cars, boats, helicopters and even model railroads.
In recent years, new battery and motor technology has injected a new dimension to radio control. The motors are quiet, unlike gas or glow-plug engines. That makes noise complaints unlikely. When electric motors are used, the airplanes can be made much lighter using foam, or very lightweight balsa and plastic film for covering the frame. One of the premier competitions is the Indoor E-Fest.
Follow me below the orange tailspin for more.
One of the best RC stunt pilots in the world is Devin McGrath. The video is of him flying his electric plane indoors. Enjoy the airshow and leave envious comments below.