Model aircraft, model gliders and model helicopters

How much can I afford to spend on this?
Obviously an important point. Model helicopters tend to cost most to get started with. Next most expensive would be a fixed wing powered model aircraft, and cheapest to learn with would be a 2 metre model glider with either a bungee launch or used at a slope.
What type of model aircraft am I most eager to fly?
Fixed wing power model, Glider, or model helicopter. The above question has a great bearing on this.
TIP Don't even think about scale model aircraft yet. Your almost certain to come unstuck. Be patient & earn your wings first. The exception to the rule being planes like the Piper Cub which fly like a training aircraft anyway.
Do I feel like building the first model myself?
Do you like DIY, if so you will probably enjoy building your first model aircraft kit. If not don't bother and just buy a RTF (Ready To Fly) or ARTF (Almost Ready To Fly) Model. They cost more than a model in kit form, but you don't need the tools or flat building board.
What space have I available to build and store my models?
Don't overlook this consideration. Helicopters score well here. You can build them on the kitchen table or in the garden shed. Fixed wing aircraft are more difficult to find room for especially to build. I use a 6' 6" sapele door covered with MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) for my building work and wouldn't want anything smaller to work off.
Where am I going to fly the model when I've got it?
Hopefully you have a good local model aircraft flying club near you. If not a friendly land owner will be highly useful. Fixed wing models require a surprisingly large area free of trees, pylons, cables, houses etc etc... Model helicopters can get away with smaller areas but still leave plenty of distance from the previously mentioned obstructions, especially when still learning. What's more they don't need a take off strip...No lawnmower...
How am I going to transport the aircraft to the flying field?
If you've got a nice patch of Arizona desert or Ozzie Outback greeting you when you open your back door, then you have no worries on this score. Otherwise you will probably need a car. Better yet an estate or van. Still if your real keen and fit you could walk it to your chosen field. When I was a kid learning to fly models I used to walk over three miles carrying my first trainer. I was lucky that I had some help with the box of support equipment though.
What flight training method will I use?
Your options here are:
- Teach yourself.
- Get a buddy to teach you. Preferably with a training lead.
- Use a computer software product that simulates model aircraft flying.
- Buy a model aircraft training course (no kidding).
- A combination of the above.
From the top, teaching yourself is risky, not reccomended but possible (I managed it) with a 45" span high winger powered by a 2.5cc diesel with no throttle and 2 channel radio I plucked out of my R/C car. I'm sure however the radio control car experience helped me greatly.
TIP Don't try it this way. It will cost you.

One of the best things about a model club is the access to experienced modellers, who by and large will positively enjoy helping you get your wings. This is probably the best way to learn model flying. It has the added benefit of getting you integrated into your local flying club.

Modern modelflight simulators are superb pieces of work. I can vouch for the accuracy they exhibit. Quite recently I learned to fly model helicopters by using a pc simulator. It really did the trick. I also used a training undercarriage when flying the actual model though. These simulators can train you for both fixed wing and helicopter model flying.

In recent years some people have started operating flying schools for models. I have no experience with such things, but it could be worth a try. It works for the big uns after all.