Learn to Fly
Flight Lessons
While everyone at the field is happy to help fellow flyers, the El Dorado Silent Fliers (EDSF) club also provides free fixed-wing flying lessons.
The Learn-to-Fly program is free to help encourage the growth of the sport with an emphasis on fun & safety and to get you into the air with confidence!Our instructors use their own equipment to help you become a skilled radio control pilot – with no risk to your own plane!
This offer is generally available on most Saturdays, good weather permitting, between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM
Inquire at the field for availability!
Primary Flight Instructors:
Robert Carter
Chris Myers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the schedule for flight training?
Answer: Training will typically occur on most Saturday mornings, pending availability of Instructor pilots and good weather. Inquire at the field!
Do I have to be a member to receive training?
Answer: Our members do receive first priority on training. However; we often provide an “Introductory flight” using one of our own trainers and a buddy box for guests that have never flown before. Note: We do requires that children be at least 8 years of to participate in this program.
What equipment do I need for training?
Answer: None! The EDSF Club Instructor provides a trainer and transmitters for all training.
How long will it take before I can solo?
Answer: The time required to solo is based on the student’s ability and rate of learning. Typically, at least six flights are required before a safe solo is possible. If a RC flight simulator is used, time to solo will require less training flights. We recommend the RealFlight Simulator for every student. It is a fun and effective way to accelerate your training. Another alternative is to buy an inexpensive toy RC car. Beginners normally have two main challenges to overcome:
1) Orientation when the aircraft is coming towards you, and moving the control stick the wrong way;
2) Over-control by moving the control stick too fast or too far.
I just bought an airplane, can the EDSF Club train me to fly it?
Answer: It is preferred that initial training be conducted using instructor provided equipment (airplanes and transmitters). This is to assure that the equipment is functioning properly for safe operation using a buddy box. If you are a qualified pilot with a new airplane, you can always receive help at the field from other pilots. Our members are always willing to help new pilots (or old pilots with new airplanes).
What first airplane and transmitter should I buy to train?
Answer: We do not recommend buying any equipment until after your solo flight, with the exception of a flight simulator or inexpensive toy RC car. Once you are ready to purchase your first plane, ask some club members or your instructor for recommendations. There are many great trainer options to choose from, and the offerings frequently change and get better each year. It is a great hobby to be in!
