Beginner
 

I would like to learn to fly RC airplanes. I have been out of the Navy for over 30 years and used to fly.
I heard there was a computer program to help train you.
I can't find one can you all help me.
I live out in the boondocks over 50 Miles form KC, MO.
Any help would be appreciated.
My email is [email protected]
Thanks

RE: Beginner
 

Here is a simulator that would work for you. Good Luck, Dave


http://www.realflight.com/

RE: Beginner
 

I would also visit a local club. You can find one by entering your zip code on this page: http://www.modelaircraft.org/clubsearch.aspx You'll probably be surprised by what is close to you. You'll find a nice flying site and good people to help you out.

Take a look at www.gettingairborne.com too.

RE: Beginner
 

Sir,


The above 2 post are great advice, seek a club
and you will be on your way.


Good Flying to you,

Bob

RE: Beginner
 

I have the Realflight sim and it is as close to realistic as I have seen.  It cost 200 bucks.  You can buy it online at Tower hobbies. 

RE: Beginner
 

if i was you on the real flight sim is check craigslist first. i picked up 4.5 for 75 bucks the other day. i would never buy a program for 200 bucks but thats just me.

RE: Beginner
 

I think they have a "basic" version of Realflight now for $99. From what I read, it is more than good enough.

RE: Beginner
 

The basic version comes with the 3.5 controller.

RE: Beginner
 

Ironduke , Welcome to RCU. I grew up in Cameron Mo. not to far you . You might wnat to look into the St.Joe club http://www.stjoebarnstormers.com/orhttp://www.modelaircraft.org/clubdetails.aspx?club=3404
Another close one .
http://www.sunchasersrc.org/index.html

You might be able to pick up an used trainer and goodies fromone oftheclubs members.
The RealFlight Sims are nice , a little spendy but well worth it . The cheaper ones work well also. Tower Hobbies is a nice http://www.modelaircraft.org/clubdetails.aspx?club=3404RC site for window shopping. There are many others but Toweris very easy to surf.
If youjust retired,and like to build things, a kit might be the way to go.
Join a club, you,ll get lots of help and make some new freinds. You may also be suprized to find many ex military are draw to this hobby . One word of caution, this is a very adictive hobby,

RE: Beginner
 

Find a club with a buddy box training program. Even if you have to travel it will be cheaper in the long run!

RE: Beginner
 

Hi ironduke644
Please be aware that simulators like RealFlight require a powerful computer to work properly. Prior to purchasing my Realflight I contacted Realflight and got enough information to make certain it would work properly. Your best bet is to let a club teach you to fly. I have known retired full scale pilots who just could not land our models. I'm sure many have given up this wonderful hobby because they could not do it themselves. Our club, like most, teaches anyone to fly at no charge. I'm retired now and design, build and fly my own models, all made from Coroplast corrugated plastic sheets like use to make advertising sign. You can seen them below, in the S.P.A.D. forum.

RE: Beginner
 

I happen to be one of the guys that purchased the RealFlight G4.5. Before I did I contacted Dell and told them the system requirements that I needed and they told me I was all set, it would work with my PC. Like some of you that mentioned the price I agree that it's expensive but it's a great program. I've been flying it for more than a month now and consider it $200 well spent. I'm know there are more programs out there but I don't know much about them. Good luck.