Types of RC Flying

Radio controlled (RC) flying encompasses various disciplines and styles, each with its own set of characteristics, rules, and communities. Here’s an outline of the types of RC flying in the USA: State College RC Club has members that fly in all disciplines and have many years expirence.

1. Fixed-Wing Aircraft

Sport Flying: General flying for fun without specific rules or competitive elements. Pilots enjoy flying aerobatic maneuvers or simply cruising around.

Aerobatics: Involves performing precise maneuvers such as loops, rolls, and spins. This category includes:

Pattern (Precision Aerobatics / IMAC): A highly disciplined form of aerobatics with specific sequences of maneuvers performed for points.

3D Flying: A style of aerobatics that includes extreme maneuvers like hovering, torque rolls, and other stunts that often require the aircraft to fly at very high angles of attack or in unusual attitudes. It demands high-power-to-weight ratios and exceptional pilot skill.

Scale Models: Detailed replicas of real aircraft, focusing on accurate reproduction of the aircraft's appearance and flight characteristics. Competitions often judge these models based on fidelity to the original aircraft.

Giant Scale: Giant scale models typically have a wingspan of 80 inches or more for monoplanes and 60 inches or more for biplanes. Some giant scale jets may have even larger wingspans. These models can weigh anywhere from 15 to 55 pounds or more, depending on the size and complexity.

Combat: Pilots fly aircraft in a designated area, attempting to cut streamers attached to other planes or engage in aerial dogfights.

2. Helicopters

Sport Helicopters: General flying of RC helicopters, including basic maneuvers and simple hover techniques.

3D Helicopters: Advanced aerobatics for helicopters, including complex maneuvers like inverted flight, pirouettes, and flips. This style is similar to 3D flying in fixed-wing aircraft but adapted to helicopter dynamics.

Scale Helicopters: These models replicate real helicopters, focusing on realistic appearance and flight behavior.

3. Multirotors (Drones)

Freestyle: Pilots perform acrobatic maneuvers in a non-competitive setting, showcasing their creativity and piloting skills.

Racing: Fast-paced competitions where pilots navigate a predetermined course, often using FPV (First Person View) systems to control their drones.

Cinematography: Use of drones to capture aerial footage for photography and video production, emphasizing stability and smooth flight.

4. Gliders and Sailplanes

Thermal Soaring: Gliders are flown to catch rising warm air (thermals) to stay aloft for extended periods without using a motor.

Slope Soaring: Gliders use lift generated by wind hitting a slope or ridge to stay airborne.

Hand Launch: Small gliders are launched by hand or using a discus launch technique, focusing on duration and distance.

5. Specialty Flying

Night Flying: Using aircraft equipped with lights to fly after dark, adding an extra layer of challenge and visual appeal.

Indoor Flying: Flying small, lightweight models indoors, typically in a gymnasium or large hall, where conditions are controlled and consistent.

6. FPV (First Person View)

Freestyle and Racing: Using onboard cameras to provide a pilot's eye view, often used in drone racing and freestyle flying.

Long Range: Flying aircraft over long distances using FPV equipment, requiring advanced planning and piloting skills. Highly Regulated.

7. Amphibious Aircraft

Float Planes: Aircraft equipped with floats to take off and land on water.

Amphibians: Aircraft capable of operating on both water and land, offering versatility in various flying environments.

Regulatory and Community Aspects

Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA): The primary organization in the USA that governs and promotes RC flying, offering guidelines, safety regulations, and a community for enthusiasts.

FAA Regulations: RC flying is subject to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules, especially concerning drone operations and airspace usage.

Each of these types of RC flying offers unique challenges and rewards, appealing to a broad range of interests within the RC community. The inclusion of 3D flying in both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters highlights the diversity and technical skill required in RC aerobatics.