“I’m learning to fly … “
Chances are that you remember your first successful flight. Do you recall the emotions you felt that day? Perhaps they included surprise, gratefulness, elation, and satisfaction—maybe all of these at the same time! Do you remember the journey that you took to get there? Similar to many of life’s lessons, learning something difficult carries with it rich rewards.
Learning to build and/or fly model aircraft successfully at any age is a process, and we hope that this “Newcomers” issue serves those who are taking that first big step. What kind of trainer should you purchase? What transmitter should you consider? What resources does AMA offer?
It’s worth emphasizing that the word “newcomer” can encompass people of all ages and the many facets of model aviation, from rubber-powered Free Flight to RC Giant Scale. All have a starting point. We’re excited that nearly every contributor addressed this theme in this issue’s feature articles and columns.
As “Small-Field Flying” columnist Pat Tritle notes this month in his column starting on page 50, “success will undoubtedly be your greatest motivator.” After all, the model aviation hobby is supposed to be about the fun and camaraderie that comes with it—that’s the end game for most of us!
As the world’s largest organization of model aviation enthusiasts, AMA stands stronger when the hobby grows. Hopefully that growth stems from the enthusiasm of our members once they have taken that first successful flight.
AMA offers a number of resources; in fact, there are too many to list here! Jump over to modelaircraft.org to learn more. One resource does deserve particular attention though: the Introductory Pilot Program (IPP). If you are new to model aviation and AMA, visit modelaircraft.org/programs/introductory-pilot-program to find out how you can benefit from the IPP. You should also make sure to check out the AMA Flight School at amaflightschool.org, as well as learn.modelaircraft.org, for more great resources.
AMA strongly encourages you to join a club and find a mentor before launching your model aviation journey. You can find a club near you at modelaircraft.org/club-finder. Don’t forget to attend model aviation events as well! A fun-fly or competition might be a source of inspiration and a place to make new friends.
Even if you are not a newcomer, I hope that you find this issue to be helpful in some way or worth sharing with someone new to the hobby.
We all might remember that first successful flight and what it took to get there, possibly including a few mishaps in the workshop or at the flying field. As I write this, I have Tom Petty’s “Learning to Fly” playing in my head, with that signature line, “I’m learning to fly, but I ain’t got wings, coming down, is the hardest thing.” Hopefully, this issue helps you get into the air successfully. That’s when the real fun begins!
