Gas rc airplanes are a little more complicated then electric planes, but are much more enjoying to fly. Gas model airplanes are great because they fly faster and longer then electric planes.

Also, the prices have dropped considerably, and have become much easier to fly. If you need help fixing your gas powered rc airplane, visit my help section.

Note: Gas powered RC airplanes do require a nitro methane based fuel and they can be very difficult to operate and maintain. If you are not up to the challenge, I recommend you start off with an electric R/C airplane first, then progress to a fuel powered one.

First off, if your are a beginner, I recommend you get a gas rc trainer airplane . They are a perfect introduction to gas rc planes. If you have some experience, or just choose not to get a trainer for your first plane, then you should take a look at our gas rc airplanes.

Important Gas RC Airplane Reminders

If you are a beginner, picking out the right gas rc plane is very important. You don't want to waste time and money on the wrong airplane. If you are just starting out, then you need a gas rc trainer airplane.

Before buying your gas r/c plane, you need to keep these things in mind….

• should be a trainer gas rc plane if you are a beginner
• wings should be high up on the fuselage above the cabin area
• if a beginner, wing should be large because more lift is created, which will make the airplane fly slower
• needs tricycle landing gear to make landings easier
• flat bottom wing air foil section for better lift
• get 4 to 6 channel transmitter so you don't have to buy a new transmitter when you have a more advanced gas rc airplane in the future
• bigger the plane, the easier to fly

Below is a list of equipment that the beginner would need to start flying, and maintain, there gas rc airplane.

Don't worry, usually everything below is already included with your purchase. Just go through the list to make sure you get it all.

• gas rc plane (RTF, ARF, Kit)
• 2-stroke or 4-stroke engine
• quart of rc airplane hobby fuel - 15% Nitro preferably
• "after run" gas rc plane engine oil
• fuel pump
• starter for the engine
• ignition system (spark plug, glow plug, etc.)
• radio control transmitter & batteries - 4 to 6 channels

Just a reminder, always look for the words "not included". It will save you frustration in the future. Check out the parts and accessory sections to get those needed items.

Why Choose Gas RC Airplanes?

There are many ups and downs to gas rc planes. Let's look at them now.

Gas RC Airplane Pro's	Gas RC Airplane Con's
Long flying times Airplane looks and sounds more authentic Increased speed and torque	Noisier Higher Cost More maintenance expenses Challenging for beginners Longer setup time Requires some knowledge of rc airplanes to set up

I know it doesn't look like it, but the pro's out weigh the con's. Simply because long flying times and increased speed are major advantages.

Especially compared to electric rc airplanes, which usually have a flying time between 10 and 20 minutes, and slower speeds.

Gas RC Airplane Engines

Gas rc plane engines, also known as nitro engines, work great for powering your airplane. They make your airplane a true airplane. The best benefit of nitro powered engines is you are allowed more freedom to experiment and enhance your plane. That's where the greatest fun is! I can also help you with nitro engine tuning and maintenance.

Let's Start Flying!

Before you get started flying gas powered rc planes, you need to prepare. There are many great books, magazines, instructional videos, and simulators to help you. You could also consider hiring an rc airplane flight instructor from a local club Check out the learn to fly page for more information.

Next, you need to focus on choosing the right airplane. Before you start spending money, ask yourself these questions:

• How much do you want to spend?
• How fast do you want your airplane to go?
• How far do you want it to go?
• Do you want a scale model (realistic model) or a non-scale model?

After you have answered those questions above, you can start looking for the right plane.

What else will you need?

When you purchase a trainer gas rc airplane, everything you need is usually included. Any other type of nitro powered airplane you purchase, always check for the required accessories that are not included.

Most of the time it will just be the engine and/or some extra needed accessories (i.e. fuel, oil, etc.) that are not included. You can purchase those items at the same store you purchase your airplane from. If you need help picking out the needed parts and accessories, then you should check out my parts and accessory pages.

Recommended Book and Magazine

My favorite book for beginner's is Model Airplane Secrets. This eBook can be downloaded right this minute and contains all the insider tips, techniques and secrets you need to know to go from beginning model airplane enthusiast to expert in no time! You will learn about the history of model airplanes, how to get started in the hobby, what accessories you need, how to avoid crashes, tips on all other aspects and much more.

Model Airplane News magazine is written for enthusiasts who truly enjoy the sport and hobby of making and flying model airplanes. Every month, readers will receive features on construction and design, how-to techniques, and comprehensive evaluations of new kits and models.