This project has been in the squadron for a number of years now and is going from strength to strength. It is the only project in the squadron that there is a charge for joining. The reason for this is because cadets are required to join a modelling club and are required to be insured in order to fly the models. This is not the kind of hobby that should be undertaken unsupervised as members of the public have been injured in the past due to inexperienced people buying and flying models in public places.

When cadets first join this project, all the necessary equipment and models will be made available to practice with. This is made possible due to the support given by the Scottish Aeromodellers Association (SAA). Should a cadet decide that he or she enjoys the hobby and as such, wishes to purchase their own model, there is a wide range of options open to them. In most clubs, there is a ready supply of second hand models, which if you are lucky, come with fitted engine and all the electrics still in place. These can be picked up quite cheaply and it is an ideal way for new members to the hobby to get started.


Before you are let loose with you own model you will be taken along to the flying field where you will taught how to fly the models by one of the club instructors using a buddy system such as that pictured above. The buddy system is two transmitters linked together. A switch on the master transmitter is held down which gives you control over flying the model. Should you encounter problems, this switch is released and the instructor has immediate control over the model enabling him to bring it back under control. The amount of time required on the buddy system various between individuals. Some people pick up the controls very quickly while others take that little bit longer. Your goal is to be able to fly the model in such a manner that you will be able to pass the Bronze Safety Award. Only when you have achieved this will you be allowed to fly the models solo. Your training doesn't stop once you have achieved your Bronze. The Silver Award will allow you to fly your model at public events. There is of course a Gold Award which should be your main aim. To get the Gold Award is an achievement and one to be proud of.


The above is a very quick breakdown on what you can expect if you decide to join this project. Once through your Bronze Award, you will no doubt want to purchase your own model and believe me, you will be spoilt for choice. Below is a small example of what your choices are

Secondhand

• Buy from a club member as mentioned above. In most cases, you will have to purchase your own engine and electrics and install them yourself.

ARTF

• Almost Ready To Fly. These kits come pre built and covered. All you have to do is fit the wings, tailplane assembly, engine and electrics and your ready to fly. These models start at under £100 and look great when finished.

Scale

• Fancy a challenge, then get yourself a scale model. Enter into the competative side of things but be prepared to do your homework beforehand. These models are not cheap and a lot of hard work is required in order to produce the required specifications.

Large Scale

• The Vulcan bomber in the video clip is one such model. The building and flying of these models is govered by the civil aviation authority. If you want to know more about Large Scale models, speak to your Oic (Mr Nicol) who is currently in the process of building a Lancaster Bomber with a 17 foot wingspan.

Scratch Build

• Scatch build models are built from plans only. There are no precut pieces to glue together. Everything that you require in order to complete the model must be drawn and cut out by yourself. You should have a good understanding of technical drawing as plans are sometimes difficult to interpret.

If after reading this article you are still interested in joining the project then be advised that we require commitment from you. You must be prepared to attend the project outwith parade evenings. During flying activities, accidents happen and we need to do repairs to the models that we have. Most cadets in the project attend on a Wednesday evening and also a Saturday at the flying field (when weather permits). For further info about the project, speak to Mr Nicol and he will give you all the details that you require.