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Now that electric-powered RC has come of age, many different
aircraft categories have really started to grow. Just a quick look at the T-34 Mentor ePTS or the ParkZone
J-3 Cub aircraft illustrates how modern brushless motors and Lithium
Polymer (Li-Poly) batteries have impacted the
40-size trainer and smaller outdoor scale electric airplane classes. These
airplanes and their cousins now really perform.
But none of the aircraft classes have benefited more than
the indoor airplane category. Powerful tiny brushless motors and small Li-Poly
batteries have caused a major revolution in this class. So improved have these
airplanes become that even indoor/outdoor airplanes now are practical,
inexpensive and fun to fly for every pilot.
 
Photo 1 Photo 2
The ParkZone Ember is possibly the premier example of these
new higher performance airplanes. It is very easy to fly, costs very little,
uses the new 2.4 Ghz radio systems, is more rugged than the usual indoor
airplane and really performs. Unlike many of its competition, the Ember is a
true indoor/outdoor airplane. It can handle winds up to about 5 mph while
remaining stable and easy to control.
The Ember meets all the aircraft
requirements of the Academy of Model Aeronautics' (AMA) Park Pilot Program. The
aircraft weighs less than 2 pounds (the Program's upper weight limit) and has a
level top speed under 60 mph (the Program's upper speed limit). For complete
Park Pilot aircraft details, follow this link.
The AMA Park Pilot
Program offers non-AMA members the opportunity to become AMA members at a much
reduced cost. Park Pilot membership includes a great magazine "Park Pilot",
$500,000 personal liability insurance, $2.5 million liability insurance for the
flying field owner (see insurance details) and membership in the world's
largest sport aviation association - the AMA. For complete information and
details about Park Pilot membership, just click here.
Photo 3
Indoors or out, the Ember is great as a first trainer or as a
performer for more experienced pilots. There is just about no assembly or
building involved. Photo 3 shows just how it arrives in its own storage and
transport cradle. Make sure to keep the packaging. It serves as a storage box
and protects the Ember during transport. Ultra-lightweight aircraft like the
Ember need more protection from "hangar rash" than do larger RC airplanes. The
original box is ideal for this task.
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