A variety of planes will be displayed statically, to allow close-up views of the different styles and scales. Planes of up to 50% scale-size will be on display at Oudtshoorn.
Historically, modellers built to plan, from scratch, using balsa wood. Modern kits are called ARF models - Almost Ready to Fly. The body is assembled, the wings are built and covered and one marries the bits together, drops in the radio receiver and connects servo-motors to the various controls - elevator, ailerons, rudder and throttle linkage.
"The model plane industry uses either a 2.4 GHz or an approved 35MHz radio frequency.
Each radio is fitted with a crystal and the plane receiver has a corresponding crystal," explains expert and enthusiast, Fred Mullany committee and founding member of Knysna Model Plane Club. "A frequency control board system at the field stops interference between pilots transmitters."
The sport is controlled by the SA Aeromodellers Association (SAMAA).
According to Mullany, all pilots must belong to the association and the cclub is required to observe and practice strict safety procedures.
"Every pilot, before flying solo, must meet minimum criteria for the ability to fly solo. The planes are not toys and an accident can easily occur - hence the need for the control and safe operation of models. Most pilots are taught by their co-members," says Mullany.
Pilots can be found flying a variety of models. Trainers, low-wing sports-aerobatics, and even copies of jet aircraft, some using pusher-prop electric power (from a Lithium Polymer battery).
The Knysna Radio Flyers have a registered flying strip/ airfield along the Rheenendal Road on Little Swiss Farm, where they fly on Saturday mornings, from 09:00 to 13:00.
Control-line flying
A separate facet of the sport is control-line flying. The model plane is secured by a set of control lines and the pilot is the pivot. The plane flies in a circle, but also performs a variety of manoeuvres. The plane flies until out of fuel and is then landed.
A number of dedicated control-liners can be seen at the Knysna High School fields on most weekends. For more information contact Fred Mullany at 044 381 0306.
Some of the impressive scale models seen at last year’s airshow in Oudtshoorn.
(Photo: Bruce Smith.)
