F.G. Koval

WHILE many modelers are building larger and larger models, some with 10- and 12-foot wing spans, and powered with chainsaw engines, reduction drives, etc., there is a group of fliers in the Northeast headed in the opposite direction. Faced with the lack of suitable flying fields for free-flight activity, and in many cases the need to drive for up to an hour even to fly radio control, we are going electric. Electric-powered aircraft offer numerous advantages, not the least of which is simple operation. All that is required to start the motor is to flip a switch or plug in a connector, much like turning on a light or switching on a radio. Unlike glow engines, there is no messy cleanup following a flying session; just turn off the switch and put the aircraft away. Another advantage of electric flight is the diminutive noise level, permitting operation out of the local school yard or ball field. This allows the modeler to fly more frequently, not having a lengthy drive to the club flying field. A quick flight or two after dinner is within the realm of possibility.