FAQs

QUESTIONS ANSWERS
Do you need a licence ? No, but you do need third party insurance available for about £28 per annum. BMFA membership provides this insurance.
Are model helicopters hard to fly ? In a word YES but not impossible, recent improvements in technology and some help make it quite straight forward. Patience and practice is all that is required.
How much does it cost ? Getting started can done for around £550, buying second hand can reduce this.
What do the helicopters run on ? Most helicopters use a glow plug engine and run on a special fuel available from model shops. The fuel is a mixture of methanol, oil and varying percentages of nitro-methane. Nitro-methane provides the power and the oil ... well it oils, as well as cools the engine. 
Does it cost a lot to run & maintain ? No, a small helicopter used for beginners and intermediates uses little fuel.
What happens when it crashes ? Model helicopters are modular i.e. when you break a bit, then you can simply fit the new part(s).
Do I need any special skills or tools to build it ? No, if you follow the plans carefully it is quite simple. Only basic tools are required.
Should I join a club ? Yes, the chances of you getting to a good standard are massively increased and your repair bill will be reduced.
Where should I buy the helicopter ? Some model shops specialise in helicopters due to the nature of the machines, these shops are best for the dedicated knowledge of the staff.
Can model helicopters do aerobatics ? Yes, there is an endless list of aerobatics (3d flying) that can be performed, could keep you busy for years.
I'm interested, where do I go from here ? E-mail one of the contacts, or better still visit the Club. Weekends are best, see the models in action and talk to us (we're quite friendly !)