Why only paper airplanes? Yes, this is the most popular type of airplane, but there are many others. You may be surprised to learn that there are thousands of model airplane builders who have never built a paper airplane...because they build rockets! Let's explore the most popular types of model aircraft - you may find a lot more joy in the hobby if you start collecting or building them.
RC Planes
RC (remote control) airplanes and helicopters are the most popular as ready-to-use toys. There are also jets, gyrocopters, RC gliders, airships, and balloons, etc. Kids love these toys and they make great gifts. There are also kits that require building or painting. The most passionate hobbyists even build their RC planes completely from scratch - using balsa or plastic parts for the plane, programming the controllers, sometimes even building parts of the remote control and engine themselves.
Since these planes are quite complex and there is a wide variety of them, there are entire forums on the web devoted solely to aviation.
Large model aircraft
Most model airplanes are meant to sit on the shelf. But some fans prefer much larger models and even participate in large model aircraft fan clubs. Some of these models can be over three or four feet tall and comfortable enough for a child to sit in.
Large-scale models don't usually fly, but some can be driven on land. They are great toys and small children love them. The only problem is that you will need a garage or shed to keep one.
Model Rockets
Model rockets are a different matter. They're less of a toy and more of an adult hobby because launching a model rocket is not a simple task. You need a launchpad and an outdoor area large enough and clean enough for the rocket to be recovered (i.e., it needs a place to fall to the ground). There are several methods of recovery, the most popular being the use of recovery parachutes.
Model rockets are always powered and made of stable materials so that they can be launched multiple times.
Model Spacecraft
Model spacecraft are usually static and represent a scaled version of a real spacecraft. They can be very beautiful and educational, but usually don't fly for obvious reasons. The biggest fans of model spacecraft make them from scratch. And making a good replica of a complex spaceship can take months!
If you want to give a child a spaceship as a gift, you might prefer to buy a simplified version readymade. Some of them can even be remote-controlled and fly.
Static Model Aircraft
When it comes to static model airplanes in general, airplanes always take the top spot. While in most cases it is easier to build an airplane than a spaceship, the requirements for truly"professional" models are high: every detail must be represented. For this reason, the construction of these models is not suitable for small children.
Static models can also be purchased ready-made, and don't be surprised that they are not cheap at all. Not only are they very detailed and fine, but they are also made from the highest quality wood.
Free Flight Model Aircraft
These planes can be non-powered (hand-launched) or powered by gas, electricity, or rubber bands. Their design is simple and mainly focused on aerodynamics. They are also usually cheap, as it is not uncommon to lose such a plane while launching it to fly.
The best of them are not those that look the best, but those that fly long and far.
Control line airplanes
These are similar to free-flight planes except that the amateur can control the plane by a pair of control wires. This very simple and foolproof method allows you to control the plane and make sure you can take it back at any time.
As you can see, the world of model aircraft is really interesting and diverse why wait, learn more about
Large Model Airplanes
