A sky filled with precision, passion, and polystyrene – welcome to the world of remote-controlled aviation in Potchefstroom.

In this episode of Stroom Stories, host Pieter, takes viewers into the thrilling world of RC (remote control) aviation with Ayrton Siena, a passionate member of the Midwest Model Club. What begins as a curious introduction soon reveals a deeply technical and rewarding hobby, where both youth and adults take to the skies in miniature aircraft built for both beauty and performance.

From Curiosity to Control

Ayrton's journey with model aircraft began in his early childhood, growing up in Potchefstroom. Inspired by his father's interest in the hobby, Ayrton was introduced to the concept of remote-controlled flight at a young age. Yet, for years, he hesitated to try it himself, unsure if he had the skill or confidence. That changed four years ago, when he finally gave it a go—and to his surprise, everything seemed to click.

Since then, he’s immersed himself in the world of RC flying, spending the last year specializing in aerobatics, a demanding form of flight that tests a pilot’s reflexes, control, and focus.

The Art of Aerobatics

Aerobatic flying, Ayrton explains, is a step above casual flight. It involves high-precision movements, like turning a plane 180 degrees in mid-air or holding it in a stall position—where the wings no longer provide lift and the plane stays airborne purely through engine thrust. These movements require careful, fine-tuned control and lightning-fast decisions. A single mistake could cost a pilot their aircraft.

Compared to standard flying patterns like loops and rolls, aerobatics challenges every part of the pilot’s brain, as well as the limits of the aircraft itself.

Exploring the RC Aircraft Universe

There’s a wide range of styles and classes in RC aviation. Ayrton breaks them down:

• Light Sport Aircraft (LSA): Petrol-powered planes suited for high G-force aerobatics.

• Warbirds: Historical scale models of World War aircraft, often built with heavier materials like fiberglass and designed for display rather than extreme manoeuvres.

• Helicopters: Available in electric (preferred for their instant power) and nitro variations. Nitro engines reach higher revs but respond slower compared to electric motors.

• Jets: Either EDF (Electric Ducted Fan) or turbine-based. These are more commonly flown in larger cities due to space requirements and complexity.

• Gliders: Silent, engine-free flyers that focus on aerodynamic precision.

• FPV Drones: Highly customizable flying machines built from chosen parts, controlled via goggles, and raced in obstacle courses for speed and agility.

Building drones, Ayrton says, is much like assembling a gaming computer—you select each part to suit your needs and preferences.

Getting Started Without Breaking the Bank

For many newcomers, the cost of RC flying seems daunting. Ayrton addresses this misconception. While advanced setups can run into tens of thousands of rands, beginners can enter the hobby for around R5,000, using second-hand equipment and polystyrene planes that come ready to fly.

These starter kits are easy to repair—typically using common wood glue and spare foam parts—and ideal for learning. New flyers at the Midwest Model Club are encouraged to test their skills on club-owned training aircraft before making any purchases. The learning curve includes everything from basic takeoff to safe landings, with support for both airplane and helicopter training.

Dreaming Bigger and Flying Higher

Ayrton is not just a weekend flyer—he’s also got long-term aspirations. He hopes to continue competing in aerobatic competitions and eventually be invited to perform at major airshows using large-scale RC planes. These aircraft mimic full-size planes in movement, but without the physical limitations of carrying a human pilot, allowing for snappier and more extreme manoeuvres.

One of his favorite tricks is “hovering,” where the plane balances vertically in front of the pilot. Some even manage to tap the tail or spin the plane on its wheels mid-air, creating a stunning visual for spectators.

Events That Bring the Community Together

The Midwest Model Club doesn’t only cater to solo flyers. They regularly organize events to grow the hobby and involve the wider community. Their Fun Fly Day on 24 May is a highlight—an all-day friendly event with no prizes, just enjoyment and shared passion.

Later in June, the club will host an IMAC (International Miniature Aerobatic Club) competition, focusing on flying exact patterns with precision. More events are in the works, including school exhibitions, potential appearances at festivals like Ligjefeest, and collaborations with local institutions.

Rules, Remotes and Realism

While RC flying may look playful from the outside, there are clear regulations in place, especially for competitions. Aircraft are divided into weight classes, ranging from smaller 20cc planes to massive 120cc models. These weight classes help level the playing field, especially in competitive settings.

RC controllers are also more complex than casual observers might expect. Many come with multiple switches, knobs, and buttons, all programmable to suit the pilot’s specific aircraft and flying style. Some setups include telemetry for engine revs, battery levels, and GPS tracking—especially useful for large-scale or Warbird models.

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🛩️ RC Aviation 101: What You Should Know

Entry-Level Setup:

• Budget: R4,000–R6,000 (second-hand)

• Includes a polystyrene plane, radio, charger, battery, and receiver

• Simple, glue-based repairs

• Start flying with club trainers before investing in your own plane

Types of RC Aircraft:

• Aerobatic Planes – Built for performance flying

• Warbirds – Historical display aircraft

• Helicopters – Electric and Nitro-powered

• Jets – EDF and turbine-powered

• FPV Drones – Custom-built for racing

• Gliders – Engine-free flight for distance and technique

Controllers and Skills:

• Programmable remotes with multiple switches and telemetry options

• Beginner-friendly simulators available for practice

• Quick reflexes and precision movement are essential

Where to Start:

• Visit Midwest Model Club in Potchefstroom on any Saturday

• Follow them on Facebook: Midwest Model Club

• Contact trainers like Ayrton (planes) and Rohan (helicopters) for help getting started

Final Thoughts

RC aviation in Potchefstroom is more than a hobby—it’s a growing community built on mentorship, creativity, and a love of the sky. With clubs like Midwest Model Club making it accessible and affordable, anyone with a dream of flying—whether a child or adult—can find their place in the sky. From polystyrene trainers to turbine-powered jets, the only limit is your imagination… and maybe the wind speed.

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