How Do Model Airplanes Fly?

Model airplanes are exact replicas of the various realwould make the bottom of the aircraft heavier and
airplanes that fly in the skies. These airplanes aregive it better stability. If the wings are placed a little
powered by an engine that runs on gas or battery orlower, it gives better maneuverability, as the weight is
electricity and some even use jet propulsion for theconcentrated on the top of the aircraft.
required power. These planes are normally made upTo fly a plane, the aerodynamics is very important.
of balsa wood, plywood or may be even compositeThis is where the wings come into play, as they have
fiber.to get past the gravity and power the lift. It has to be
An important aspect to be considered, while designinggreater than the airplanes weight, in order to help it
these planes is the aerodynamic effect their shapetake off the ground. This cannot be achieved, when
would have on their flight quality. It is also verythe plane is stationary. It needs to get the thrust to
important to consider the center of gravity for themove the wings forward, thereby creating the lift. The
entire body of the plane, to enhance flight quality.thrust created also depends on the wing surface,
The plane is controlled using a remote control. Thewhich is calculated in ounces per sq. foot. A light wing
remote control of the model airplane is similar to theis recommended for beginners, as it can be controlled
remote control of a T.V. or music System or even abetter than planes with heavier wings. The drag
R.C. car. However, these remote controls use infrareddepends on the wing thickness. A thicker wing is for
waves, while model airplanes use radio waves. Whenslower speeds and a lighter wing for racing and aerial
flying the R.C. plane, the remote control acts as aacrobatics.
transmitter, which sends radio waves.Dihedral is the angle of the wings, when tilted upwards
A regular airplane depends on the airfoil componentsfrom the body of the plane. This help in the stability of
of its wings, to help in taking off with the forwardthe plane, when in motion.
motion. Thrust or push is essential, to make the airplaneThe engine of a conventional remote controlled plane
fly and move forward, as this has to be achievedis a two stroked engine, that uses glow fuel to power
against the wind direction and drag. It is only, when youit. There are four stroke engines as well. Engine that
can get more power against the gravitational pull anduse electrical power does not emit smoke and is
drag that your plane will fly. Location of the airplanesrelatively clean and silent. The range for a remote
wings is essential for its flight. To make it stable, thecontrolled plane is roughly a mile, which is good enough
wings can be designed a little on the higher side, as thisto be exciting and thrilling flying it.