By Dawn Burleigh

The Orange Leader

 

While a vast majority of the members of the Orange County Radio Control Club (OCRCC) are senior citizens, they recall the joy of first discovering model airplanes as a hobby. The joy remains in their voice as they talk about it today.

On Saturday, the men enjoyed the visit of Boy Scout Troop 23, as the group asked questions and learned more about the hobby.

“Electric planes proved to be a challenge,” aviator Wayne Lofton said. “The plane itself cost $15 to build. The motor was $100 and then there is also the speed control.”

The troop is in the process of working on their Aviation Merit Badge. One step in achieving the badge is to build and fly a fuel-driven or battery powered electric model airplane. Describe safety rules for building and flying model airplanes. Tell safety rules for the use of glue, paint, dope, plastics, fuel, and battery pack.

Scout Master James Broussard said the troop would visit an airport in the near future as another component of the badge.

The field the club uses ensures all airborne flights are in approval of the Academy of Model Aeronautics rules for club flying. Each member is registered with the Federal Aeronautics Administration (FAA) as drone pilots due to all unpiloted aircraft are considered drones. It is also bound by the rules that require all aircraft to be a line of sight controlled and under 400 feet of altitude.

“The boys are very inquisitive,” OCRCC President Scott Elliott said. “They asked a lot of questions about electric and gas planes and about drones.”

The club also offered the troop lunch after the presentation.

Visitors are welcome at the airfield as long as a member is present.

“If the gates are open, come on in,” Elliott said.

OCRCC meets each Tuesday and Saturday 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the club’s airfield located at 10623 Farm to Market Road 1442 in Orange.