Big thrills in mini planes
Dozens of model planes are set to take to the skies and to wow with deft aerial tricks. On Sunday, a paddock at the end of Spurs Rd West in Colyton will be transformed into an airfield for the Palmerston North Aeroneers model aircraft club’s annual open day.
Helicopters, gliders and aerobatic planes, with wingspans ranging from 1 metre to 3 metres, will be on display with thrilling aerobatics and mock dogfights.
Club vice-president Rene Redmond said it was the biggest day on the club’s calender and he promised the morning would be a blast for young and old.
A highlight was a quarter-scale jetpowered model of the Cold War-era De Havilland Vampire fighter – the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s first jet aircraft, one of which was on display at the gates of O¯ hakea air base for many years.
The former air force engineer was excited to share his passion with the public and hoped the club could attract new members.
‘‘It’s a really fun hobby to get into and can cost as little as a couple of hundred dollars. Although it can go right on up to ‘you don’t want to know’, if you really get into it.’’
A starter plane can cost less than $300. As a hobby, it’s a fair bit cheaper than taking up skiing or golf for a season, which can cost nearly $2000, the club website’s FAQ section notes.
But a newbie wouldn’t have to shell out right away. In fact, it was a good idea not to until they had a few lessons under their belt and were sure they would enjoy it, Redmond said.
Often a novice pilot will cause costly damage, or even destroy their aircraft in a crash without the guidance of an instructor.
But every club member was keen to help newcomers and would support them with advice, flying lessons and even lend them one of the club’s trainer planes to practise with.
‘‘One thing modellers are good at, is we like to embrace people who show an interest.’’