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At White Sheet Radio Flying Club, we are passionate about RC (Radio-Controlled) gliding, and we're excited to help you embark on your journey into this exhilarating hobby! Whether you're new to flying or looking to hone your skills, our guide will take you through everything you need to know to get started.
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What is RC Gliding?
RC Gliding is a form of remote-controlled flight using gliders or sailplanes. Unlike powered RC planes, gliders have no engines. Instead, they rely on air currents and thermals (columns of rising warm air) to stay aloft. Mastering RC gliding is both challenging and rewarding, offering pilots an opportunity to experience flight in its purest form.
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Getting Started: The Basics
1. Choose the Right Glider
Beginners should opt for a simple, durable glider with stable flight characteristics. Look for:
- High-wing gliders: These are more stable and forgiving.
- EPO foam: This material is lightweight and highly durable, making it great for beginners.
- Electric gliders: While traditional gliders rely solely on air currents, electric-powered gliders have a motor that helps you avoid difficult landings or long walks to retrieve the glider.
Some great beginner models include:
- Multiplex EasyGlider
- Multiplex EasyStar
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2. RC Gear Essentials
You’ll need:
- Transmitter (TX): A handheld controller that communicates with your glider.
- Receiver (RX): Installed in the glider, this receives signals from the transmitter.
- Servos: These move the control surfaces (ailerons, elevator, rudder).
- Battery: For electric gliders, this powers the motor and electronics.
Make sure to get a good quality, reliable 6-channel transmitter with beginner-friendly features such as throttle cut, dual rates, and expo settings.
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Your First Flights: Tips for Beginners
- Start Small: Choose a day with light winds and practice on flat, open terrain. You'll want calm conditions when learning.
- Find a Safe Area: A large, open field or hill without trees or power lines is ideal for gliding. Luckily, at White Sheet Radio Flying Club, we have the perfect site and slopes for learning!
- Launch Properly: Gently hand-launch your glider into the wind. For slope soaring, position yourself on a hill and allow the wind to carry the glider up.
- Control in Stages: Master gentle turns, keeping the wings level. Don’t worry about complex aerobatics at first—focus on smooth, controlled flight.
- Land Gently: When it’s time to land, glide your plane into the wind and allow it to slowly descend. Reduce altitude gradually and keep the nose slightly up to avoid a hard landing.
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Join Us at White Sheet
At White Sheet Radio Flying Club, you’re never alone in your RC gliding journey. Our friendly and experienced members are always available to offer advice, support, and hands-on help.
- Flying Days: Every day (weather permitting).
- Location: White Sheet Hill, with ideal slopes for gliding and picturesque views of the Wiltshire countryside.
- Membership Info: We offer annual memberships, day passes for guests, and training sessions for beginners.
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FAQs
Q: How much does it cost to start RC Gliding?
A: Beginner gliders range from £100-£200. A good-quality transmitter and receiver set will cost around £100, plus extra for batteries and chargers.Q: Do I need a licence to fly RC gliders?
A: In the UK, you’ll need to register with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and pass a simple online competency test. We can help guide you through this. We recommend you join the British Model Flying Association (BMFA). Through the BMFA's platform you can register with the CAA and complete the competency test.Q: Can I use an electric glider at White Sheet?
A: Yes, electric-powered assist gliders are welcome but must be operated in accordance with club rules. Power should only be used to gain height, after which it must be switched off. They’re excellent for avoiding the need to retrieve planes from fields below the hill. On calm, windless days, the flat field area between slopes is ideal for using power assist to gain height before gliding to search for thermals.
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Contact Us
- Website: www.whitesheet.bmfa.club
- Location: White Sheet Hill, Wiltshire
- Club Chairman: Jess Nicholls – jess@jessnicholls.co.uk
Join us today and take flight with White Sheet Radio Flying Club!
