More clever RC aircraft transport methods
In the December 2014 issue of Model Aviation, I wrote a column about the unique ways pilots transport their RC craft to and from the field and various events. You may recall Tom Polapink’s 1969 Chevelle convertible, where his Fokker D.VII rested comfortably in the backseat, or how Russell Hall, not of driving age, creatively toted his airplanes by securing a trailer behind his bicycle.
The bottom line is, when it comes to flying, we generally do whatever it takes to get our RC aircraft where they need to be. Responses to the column reinforced this. Several of you emailed me, describing the unique ways you transport and store your RC aircraft that fall outside of the “normal” realm. Then again, what is normal?
Some emails were so intriguing that I decided to showcase them in this column—part two, if you will. It’s wonderful to see so many enthusiastic pilots around, and I’m sure you’ll
Jeff Semones keeps his airplanes organized in his transportation system that he purchased for $200 and tailored to his needs.
Stu Mitnik’s clever way of storing and transporting his many airplanes is shown in his upgraded 1937 Ford panel truck. Who would have guessed?
find these pilots’ stories inspiring. Who knows? You might see something here that will have you running to the closest home improvement center or your own garage to create something you never before considered.
A Head-Turning Truck that Holds Plenty of Airplanes
Then there’s Stu Mitnik, an RC pilot with the Scottsdale Model Flyers in Arizona. You can file this under, “Who’d ever guess this man is hauling RC airplanes and all kinds of flying gear in his car?”
Driving down the road, his 1937 Ford panel truck likely turns many heads. Stu explains, “When looking for a vehicle to easily transport my RC fleet to and from the flying field, I
found an optimum configuration in a 1937 Ford panel truck.”
The truck was upgraded to be a daily driver, which is perfect for storing his RC paraphernalia. Several wings, a .40-size trainer, a Funtana 100, and a RedwingRC Yak all fit in the truck, which acts as storage when his airplanes aren’t in use, as well as a way to transport his aircraft when he is flying.
Redesigning With Airplanes in Mind
Jeff Semones joins the creativity ranks along with Wally and Stu.
A member of the River City Radio Controllers in Louisville, Kentucky, Jeff bought his RC airplane transportation system for a mere $200, and as you can see from the picture, he “ripped out everything inside.” He sealed all of the doors and cut pink foam board for airplane supports.
“All of the wings and gear fit, and there is a solar panel on top with a car battery inside for a charging station,” said Jeff. He also has a timer and inverter so he can plug in batteries during the winter season. Jeff thinks of everything!
You’ve got to hand it to these people. They’re motivated, creative pilots who are determined to keep their airplanes safe and secure as they make their way to the field!
Do you have any unique ways of transporting your RC aircraft, or have you seen any setups that have caught your eye? Email me; I’d love to hear your stories.
