Ready for takeoff!

Getting started in any new venture can be intimidating, and this is definitely the case with RC airplanes. Veteran pilots usually remember their first flights as if they happened yesterday, and first-time fliers continue to experience the jitters we're all familiar with. That's why we've dedicated 20 pages of this issue to the nuts and bolts of "getting started." If you've never flown before, don't miss our feature article on three of our favorite ready-to-fly trainers; it starts on page 53. These all-inclusive packages are easy to assemble and ideal for learning to fly. If you already own a radio system and are looking for an aileron-equipped first or second plane, check out our review of Hobby Lobby's Liberty-an electric-powered ARF model. Those who are a little further along the learning curve will appreciate our "Aerobatics for Everyone" feature, in which we detail the steps to perform a solid 4-point roll, a slow roll, a shark's tooth, even a humpty bump! And since we know that all modelers-even those who are experienced-like to try out new things, our "Micro RC" column this month details everything you need to know about small power and radio systems as well as building small, lightweight planes.

If your usually dependable powerplant isn't performing up to snuff lately, varnish buildup and carbon deposits may be to blame. But don't put that old engine on the shelf just yet; the solution is easier than you might think. This month, engine expert Dave Gierke details each step to producing "Clean Machines," from taking apart your engine to the best ways to clean each part and how to reassemble the pieces properly. Follow along, and your powerplant will run as well as it did when it was new!

Master modeler Nick Ziroli Sr. joins us this month as a guest columnist for "Scale Techniques," sharing his secrets for creating laminated trailing edges. His technique creates a narrow, scale appearance and ensures that the finished piece is strong and resistant to dings and warps. Use his tips on your next model; you just might find yourself joining Nick in the winners' circle!

When we offered a sneak peek at Steve Shumate's s wing-wing F-14 Tomcat in last month's "Final Approach," you sent dozens of emails asking when we planned to publish the construction article. Now we're pleased to offer Steve's thorough building instructions as well as the full-size plans through RCStore.com. This foam and lite-ply pusher model has excellent flight performance and is guaranteed to turn heads at the flying field. Why not build one of your own?

Safe landings.

Debra Cleghorn

Executive Editor

Copyright Air Age Publishing May 2006
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