The thrill of flying an RC plane is unmatched. The sheer joy of controlling a miniature version of a real plane, watching it soar high into the sky, and maneuvering it through the air is an experience that every hobbyist cherishes.
But what if we told you that the size of the plane could add to the excitement? Yes, we’re talking about large RC planes. The larger the plane, the more realistic the flying experience. Today, we’re going to introduce you to the three largest RC planes in the world.
Note: these planes are not for beginners. If you are looking to get into RC planes, read our starter guide here. So, please don’t go out and try to recreate anything you see here without years of experience!
1. Thai Airways Airbus A380
The Airbus A380 is the world’s largest passenger airliner, and its RC counterpart is just as impressive. The detail and craftsmanship that went into creating this model are truly remarkable. These are not your average remote control airplanes.
The plane’s size and scale are so impressive that it’s hard to believe it’s an RC plane and not the real thing. The Airbus A380 RC plane is a testament to the advancements in RC technology and the skill of the pilots who fly them.
This particular model is a replica of an A380 from THAI Airways, built to a 1/13 scale. The builder and owner, Christopher Ferkl from Austria, has put an immense amount of work into this project. The plane made its first public flight during the HORIZON AIRMEET LIVE 2021, with Rainer Kamitz at the controls, delivering an impressive flight that left spectators in awe.
The plane’s dimensions are astounding. With a wingspan of 6.13 meters (20 feet) and a length of 5.60 meters (18.5 feet), it’s a sight to behold. Despite its size, the plane weighs only 102.7 kg (226 pounds), thanks to careful construction and material choices.
The Airbus A380 model is powered by four JetsMunt 166 turbines, which provide the thrust needed to get this large plane off the ground and keep it in the air. The fuel capacity is 12 liters (2.2 UK gallons), stored in fuel tanks from CMJETS. The landing gears are from Electron, with homemade gears added for authenticity.
The plane is controlled using a Futaba T18MZ transmitter, with two Futaba 7008SB receivers ensuring reliable communication. The servos are from KST, with separate servos controlling the ailerons, elevator, rudder, landing flaps, front gear, and gear doors. The electronic control unit is a Powerbox Royal, providing reliable and precise control over the plane’s systems.
Specifications of the Airbus A380
- Scale: 1/13
- Wingspan: 6.13 meters (20 feet)
- Length: 5.60 meters (18.5 feet)
- Weight: 102.7 kg (226 pounds)
- Engines: Four JetsMunt 166 turbines
- Fuel Capacity: 12 liters (2.2 UK gallons)
- Landing Gears: Electron (with homemade gears added for authenticity)
- Control System: Futaba T18MZ transmitter, two Futaba 7008SB receivers
- Servos: KST servos (separate servos for ailerons, elevator, rudder, landing flaps, front gear, and gear doors)
- Electronic Control Unit: Powerbox Royal
Building this plane was no small feat. It took Christopher Ferkl three years and 1,700 hours of work to complete this project. The result is a stunning RC plane that captures the essence of the Airbus A380 in incredible detail. Special thanks to Vince Irie from DDG for the drone footage that truly showcases the scale and beauty of this RC plane. You can check out more of his work at Dutch Drone Gods.
2. British Airways Concorde Supersonic
The Concorde is an iconic supersonic passenger airliner that was operated until 2003. Known for its distinctive droop nose and delta wing, the Concorde was a symbol of luxury and speed. The size, scale, and flight capabilities of the Concorde RC plane make it a popular choice among RC plane enthusiasts.
This particular model, piloted by Otto Widlroither, is a 1/6 scale replica of the Concorde. The plane’s dimensions are impressive, with a wingspan of 4 meters, a length of 10 meters, and a height of 1.85 meters. Despite its size, the plane has a take-off weight of only 149 kg, thanks to careful construction and material choices.
The Concorde model is powered by four JetCat P300 Pro turbines, providing the thrust needed to achieve and maintain supersonic speeds. The fuel capacity is 24 liters, stored in four 6-liter tanks. The landing gears are pneumatic, adding to the realism of the model.
The plane is controlled using a PowerBox CORE radio, with a PowerBox PBR-26D receiver ensuring reliable communication. The servos are from HACKER, with 18 TD2612S servos controlling the various flight surfaces and landing gear.
Specifications of the Concorde
- Scale: 1/6
- Wingspan: 4 meters
- Length: 10 meters
- Height: 1.85 meters
- Take-off Weight: 149 kg
- Engines: Four JetCat P300 Pro turbines
- Fuel Capacity: 24 liters (stored in four 6-liter tanks)
- Landing Gears: Pneumatic
- Control System: PowerBox CORE radio, PowerBox PBR-26D receiver
- Servos: 18 HACKER TD2612S servos
Building this plane was a significant undertaking. The result is a stunning RC plane that captures the essence of the Concorde in incredible detail. The plane was showcased at the Jets & Props 2022 event in Genderkingen, Germany, where it wowed spectators with its size and flight capabilities.
3. Virgin Atlantic Boeing 747
The Boeing 747, often referred to as the “Queen of the Skies,” is one of the most recognizable aircraft in the world. This plane is known for its distinctive hump-shaped upper deck along the forward part of the aircraft. The RC version of the Boeing 747 is a sight to behold. Its large size and realistic flight patterns make it a favorite among RC enthusiasts.
This particular model is a 1/13 scale replica of the Boeing 747-400. Built by Adi Pitz and piloted by Rainer Kamitz, this RC plane is a marvel of craftsmanship and engineering. With a wingspan of 4.95 meters and a length of 5.43 meters, it perfectly captures the grandeur of the real Boeing 747-400. Despite its size, the plane weighs only 68 kg, thanks to the careful selection of materials and construction techniques.
The model is powered by four IQ Hammer 140 turbines, which provide the thrust necessary to get this large plane off the ground and keep it in the air. The sound of these turbines adds to the realism of the model, making it feel like you’re watching the real thing.
Specifications of the Boeing 747
- Scale: 1/13
- Wingspan: 4.95 meters
- Length: 5.43 meters
- Weight: 68 kg
- Engines: Four IQ Hammer 140 turbines
- Event Showcase: Airliner Meeting in Oppingen, Germany, July 2015
The plane was showcased at the Airliner Meeting in Oppingen, Germany, in July 2015. It wowed spectators with its size, flight capabilities, and the skill of the pilot. This RC Boeing 747-400 is a testament to the advancements in RC technology and the dedication of hobbyists like Adi Pitz and Rainer Kamitz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few commonly asked questions by people related to RC airplanes large enough to set records!
How much do large RC airplanes cost?
The cost of large RC planes can vary greatly depending on the model, materials used, and the level of detail in the design. High-end models like the Airbus A380 or Boeing 747 can cost several thousand dollars due to the intricate details and high-quality materials used. However, more affordable options are available for hobbyists on a budget, with prices starting from a few hundred dollars.
How is it possible for large remote control planes to fly?
Flight for the world’s largest RC plans is made possible by incredibly powerful engines. The engines used in large RC planes are typically turbine engines, which provide the necessary thrust to get these large models off the ground. For example, the Airbus A380 model uses four JetsMunt 166 turbines, while the Concorde model uses four JetCat P300 Pro turbines.
Are there more affordable options for large RC planes that don’t cost thousands of dollars for the body and engines?
Yes, there’s very large planes that are much more affordable. Here’s a few examples you might consider! These are less expensive because they are electric instead of using powerful jet engines.
| Model | Speed | Power | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great Planes Rifle 1M EP Sport ARF | 120+ mph | Electric | $100 – $200 | Online & Hobby Stores |
| HSDJETS S-EDF 105mm F-16 Black and White Snow Camo | 100+ mph | Electric | $1000 – $1500 | Online & Hobby Stores |
| E-flite V900 BNF Basic | 120+ mph | Electric | $150 – $250 | Online & Hobby Stores |
| Strix Goblin | 100+ mph | Electric | $200 – $300 | Online & Hobby Stores |
| Dynam Sonic 185 Glider | 50+ mph | Electric | $150 – $250 | Online & Hobby Stores |
Conclusion
The world of RC flight is vast and varied. From small and agile drones to large, realistic airplanes, there’s something for everyone. The Airbus A380, Concorde, and Boeing 747 represent the pinnacle of large RC planes. These planes offer a unique and exciting flying experience that is sure to thrill any RC plane enthusiast.
So, whether you’re a seasoned pilot or a beginner looking to get into the hobby, these large RC planes offer a unique and exciting experience that is sure to thrill. Happy flying!
