I am interested in a list of pros and cons to using gas engines v electric motors with respect to hazards, complexity, and just general ideas about the two. I am looking to build long range planes BTW. Maybe this is better in another forum section, so Moderator, if you feel inclined to move it thats ok.

Define "long range"

What size aircraft are you talking about?

range; 100 miles plus, size; under 20 pounds, 9 foot wingspan.

It will need to be gas.
The weight penalty for battery just makes it impractical for long range stuff.
To get a one hour flying time we needed 2.4Kg of battery with a flight current of only 12 to 15 amps.
Where a small 4 stroke would do the job at 1/3rd throttle sipping fuel lightly.

Retriever props.could be lowered ounce in flight to help recharge (Batteries) and a small 4 stroke generaror would use much less fuel than a typical (Helicopter).I think this is an excellant alternative.It needs no tail rotor and is a much more efficiante concept! It has been built and flown on a Full Size version.Cabable of carrying a Pilot.The only differance is My version has wigs similar to a Glider that produce a very large amount of lift at a much slower speed.Also the rigid wing is not subject to oscilation as with thin Rotor Blades! This is the way to build an Electric Rotarywing Aircraft!

Hi,

I just did a quick search for the RC flight across the Atlantic by Maynard Hill. I got many hits, here is one that briefly explains his set up with a glow converted to gas and a generator on the engine.

http://www.progressiveengineer.com/p...aynardHill.htm

Hope this helps.

Fly4Fun,

Wayne

Let's not forget it's been done (100+miles range electric-powered aircraft):

http://www.avinc.com/uas/adc/solar_challenger/

It carried a man, and was back in 1983!  So a model should be possible, but I agree gas has the best power/weight performance.

I routinely get 48-50 minute flights on a Zephyr ARF old-timer with a brushed Speed 600 geared 4:1 turning a 13x8 prop with 10 3000ma NiMh cells.