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Model aircraft small aircraft, often scaled down versions of full size planes. Constructing and flying them is a hobby that has been popular since the 1930s. Involves constructing small aircraft using materials such as balsa wood, foam and fibreglass
Popularity
There are many clubs throughout the UK, though at one time a child's hobby and pastime, this has become very much an adult orientated sport these days. Control lines and rubber bands have been mostly replaced with radio control units.
Location
This can be an in door activity primarily on control line. Most radio controlled units you will find on disused and privately owned airstrips, some local parks, and allocated grass strips in various places.
Age
This is an any age participation sport, though today it is more adult orientated.
Ability
You need to be able to read drawings and develop within the same parameters as building large aircraft. Though scaled down the requirements are the same law of physics required to fly their full blown counterpart.
Description
Most flying model aircraft can be placed in one of three main groups: Free flight model aircraft are designed and built in a manner allowing the craft to fly without attachment to the ground. This type of model predates the efforts of the Wright Brothers. Control line model aircraft are built to be flown using cables (usually two) leading from the wing to the pilot. Radio-controlled aircraft have a transmitter operated by the pilot on the ground, through a receiver in the craft.
Dedication
Most people who operate this sport are dedicated through their patience and skill, something that is a must to be able to enjoy it in its entirety. Depending on your status this can be full or casual in its application though normally it is a casual sport. Weather is a calculation taken into consideration with flying times and is an activity that can be enjoyed year round. Though most tournaments and competitions are held around July - September.
Potential
There are many competitions that one can enter into that come with recognised awards and trophies. Though there is no trophy that can replace personal satisfaction that this sport gives. It is a good avenue for making friends in a like environment.
Closely
Related Activities
Closely related activities are understanding Aerodynamics. Precision engineering if making your own engine parts. Electronics in radio and radio controlled components techniques. Understanding weather and thermal reaction to aviation.
Cost
Cost cannot really be defined here as there are many permutations including labour hours, postage and waiting time that cannot really be costed into it though a cost in itself. Component parts are not to expensive and is a relatively cheap hobby. Insurance is a good idea especially public liability cover when performing in public spaces.
Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.
 Energy |
| Arms
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| Legs
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| Sight
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| Hearing
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| Speech |
| Learning |
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