Control Line models are flown around the pilot, connected by steel lines to a control handle which gives very direct "feel" for the model in flight, and allows the pilot to control the flight path accurately while correcting the effect of the wind on the aeroplane. The effect is exhilarating, especially when flying in a Combat bout or when flying a very precise Aerobatics schedule.

The first Control Line aeroplanes were Speed models, now having very high revving (30,000 rpm) motors, and flying at up to 200 mph. Earlier models had small wings and tails, very slim streamlined fuselages and closely cowled motors to reduce drag. Modern Speed models have only one very long wing on one side, and they are very technically advanced, using carbon fibre, high strength alloys and the latest design and metallurgy in the motors. The models fly level to give maximum speed, and rotate around the pilot in about one second per lap. There are classes for motors, from 0.75 cc to 10 cc, and they fly in on steel lines from 12 to 20 metres long.

These were followed by Aerobatic models, which are bigger, slower (55 mph), and will perform loops, bunts, 8s and many other manoeuvres, all very precisely. Small models can fly aerobatics successfully, but for maximum performance they are about 1.5 metres span, using a 10 cc motor, and fly on 20 m lines. There are different Schedules, the simpler ones having mainly round manoeuvres, but for modern models, there are many square and triangular manoeuvres which test the skill of the pilot and the performance of the model to their limits. Judging is based on the accuracy of the shape of the manoeuvres.

Another event is Team Racing, which combines Speed with economy and Team co-ordination. The models are semi-scale, with 2.5 cc motors, and fly at 100 mph, but are only allowed a 7cc tank. In a Heat, three models fly together, and they must complete 100 laps. but the motors will only complete about 33 laps before they have to be landed and refuelled. The Pit men have to refuel and re-start the motors in about 4 seconds. The pilots also need great skill to keep the aeroplanes safely clear of the other models.

In Combat, two models are flown together, each with a streamer attached, and each pilot tries to make cuts with the propeller of his model on his opponent's streamer. The models have 2.5cc engines, and fly on 16 m lines at up to 90 mph, but they are highly manoeuvrable and the pilots have to concentrate very hard as they try to position their model behind their opponent's, while simultaneously keeping the lines from tangling. This event requires lightning reflexes and great stamina, and the fliers finish the bouts very tired but exhilarated.

All Control Line models can be flown in a limited area, are cheap to build and operate, and respond directly to the pilot's skill to give a unique experience which is never forgotten. Come and try it!

To view photos of control line click HERE