You are correct in that full-scale can cost considerably less, STLPilot. It can even be less than the cost of getting into R/C with a trainer. For one, a small plane can be chartered for around $75.00, for a full hour, which includes the certified flight instructor and aviation fuel. A model will set you back a minimum of $300.00, plus you have to have AMA (another $60.00) and club membership in many areas ($135.00). The initial costs total at least $450.00 minimum if you add the cost of glow fuel and the required accessories. The cost of the field is not included in to total. If you go up on a full scale plane once per month, you could get at least 6 months of flying in for the same cost as getting started in R/C.

Oh, by the way. Most clubs will require the R/C pilot to purchase their own plane, because they only use club trainers for introductory flights. You also need all the tools, fuel, and starting accessories. AMA insurance is mandatory at all sanctioned fields, and club dues are mandatory in most (a $150.00 cost up front before any time on the buddy box).

For the record: You don't even need to be a pilot to get into full-scale. You don't need to own a plane. You don't need to pay for insurance. It's all figured in the hourly cost. I guess model aviation isn't as accessible as I thought.

NorfolkSouthern