No matter which type of flying you intend to do, there are some common items you will need: The model The radio, and A few basic building tools. Depending on which kit you're buying, you may also need an electric power system or launching equipment.

The Model

Some models are better suited to inexperienced pilots than others. If you're new to radio controlled flying, we strongly recommend you learn to fly a trainer with the help of an experienced RC pilot. Trainers are gentle, slow-flying aircraft that offer more reaction time, and feature "self-righting" characteristics that return them to straight and level flight by releasing the transmitter sticks. Electric powered models like three channel powered gliders and park flyers make excellent trainers. For more information, see our guide to choosing your first model.

The Radio

R/C aircraft are controlled by a radio system that consists of a transmitter, a receiver, several servos and a rechargeable battery pack. Aircraft radio systems generally have four or more channels - one channel for each of the four primary flight controls (rudder, elevator, ailerons and throttle). For more information, see our guide to radio systems.

Building Tools
Regardless of the kit you choose, you'll need a few building tools and accessories to prepare it for flight. You will almost certainly have some of these already. A well equipped workshop would contain the following items:

			A flat building board - one you can push pins into
			Wax paper (to protect the plans from glue)
			Modelling knife
			Sanding blocks with fine and coarse sandpaper
			Steel ruler and set square
			A few dozen pins and clamps (such as clothes pegs)
			Screwdrivers
			Hobby drill with drill bits

You'll also need at least one type of model building glue to build your model. Most modellers usually use three types of glue - cyanoacrylate (commonly called cyano) for general use, epoxy resin (which is mixed from a two-part pack, and is used in joints that need extra strength), and wood glue for covering large surfaces. It's important to be aware that cyano and epoxy can be hazardous to work with, so make sure your work area is well ventilated.

Depending on which model you're building, you may also need some covering material and tools to cover your model. The type of covering usually used is heat sensitive plastic film, such as Monokote of Solarfilm. Covering material is available in a huge number of colours and varieties - such as lightweight tissue-like material or fabric material for scale models. It's applied by tacking the corners down onto the surface with an iron, sealing the edges and then shrinking the film using a heat gun until it is tight. If you don't want to buy any covering equipment, a household iron and hairdryer will do.

Introduction | Electric Flight | Thermal Soaring | Slope Soaring Introduction: Welcome | What you'll Need | Your first Model | Radio Systems