Only RM500 To Own A Remote-Controlled Aircraft

By Razif Rosli

KAMPAR, Jan 11 (Bernama) -- Many people have an interest in flying remote-controlled aircraft but financial constraints deter them from pursuing this hobby. However, that is a thing of the past.

According to Kelab RC Aeromodelling PK Ipoh president Mohd Omar Mohamed Hassan, a full set of equipment for a remote-controlled airplane can now be purchased for as little as RM500.

"About 10 years ago, it was quite expensive. Back then, just the airplane body alone cost around RM3,000 to RM5,000, depending on the type. Even the remote control could reach RM2,500, not to mention other components like batteries and engine," he told Bernama recently.

He, however, acknowledged that the hobby could become costly as enthusiasts refine their skills and upgrade their equipment over time, with costs potentially reaching thousands of ringgit.

Mohd Omar, 49, a lecturer at a higher education institution, said hobbyists usually have at least three aircraft in their remote-control fleet.

"I myself have four airplanes that are still flight-worthy," he said, adding his collection comprises the F/A-18E Super Hornet 90mm EDF; Durafly Tundra 1300mm; Thunder Stick 30cc; and Spitfire 15cc, Extra 300 3D models, as well as a helicopter.

Mohd Omar said it was his fascination with airplanes that led him to explore this “luxury” pastime.

"Since childhood, I enjoyed watching airplanes flying in the airspace above but I only started engaging in this hobby in 2008," he said.

According to the father of four, the hobby requires significant skill to ensure the plane does not crash.

"One of the main fears of new hobbyists is crashing their planes, so adequate training with an experienced instructor is essential," he added.

Meanwhile, Kelab RC Aeromodelling PK Ipoh, which was established in 2011 and whose patron is the  Raja Muda of Perak Raja Jaafar Raja Muda Musa, now has 90 members from across Perak. Members gather on weekends at RC World Tuanku Jaafar Fixed Base Operation in Gua Tempurung, Gopeng, here to conduct flight activities.

Mohd Omar said some club members have also participated in competitions, adding most of the competitions are held abroad.

"One of our members, Muhamad Syafiq Ab Muttalib, has participated in and was placed on the podium at the Rotor Asia Master in 2018 and 2019 in Chengdu, China, where he secured third place, and the Scorpion Speed Cup 2019 in Hong Kong, where he also achieved third place," he said.

Meanwhile, Captain (Rtd) Dr  Ahmad Damanhuri Ibrahim, 70, said piloting remote-controlled airplanes is not as simple as it seems.

"Even though I have flown light aircraft before, I still face difficulties. There are specific techniques to learn, and regular practice is needed to hone one’s skills," he added.

-- BERNAMA