On a summer night at Naperville’s Springbrook Prairie, model planes took to the skies.
Members of the Prop Masters RC Aero Club and the community gathered at the Model Aircraft Flying Field for a “fun fly.”
“What you’re probably going to see mostly tonight are going to be small electric airplanes, some medium-sized electric airplanes. We do have people who brought out quadcopters or drones,” said Dave Cairns, the safety officer of the club.
Some planes can take off from the ground, while others needed someone else to hand-launch them before the pilot took over with the remote control.
A friendly competition
Aircraft capabilities were showcased with a small competition. Points were gained for showing up, taking off successfully, staying in the air for 60 seconds, and adding lighted elements to the planes.
After the competition, it was time for a free flight, where multiple planes went up at once.
Joining the Prop Masters RC Aero Club
Cairns flew model planes as a child, but picked up the hobby again in retirement. He says getting started is actually very easy.
“Our club actually has an introductory pilot program, so we have a lot of young people that come out. Quite a few retirees come out and the club will provide aircraft training lessons, everything from your first flight up until the point where you can fly on your own at no cost to the student pilot; after that, it’s up to you if you choose to buy and build aircraft,” said Cairns.
His favorite part? Working with young people.
“Building a plane, showing them how it works. Getting them involved and then seeing them actually excel and become proficient pilots,” said Cairns.
However, flying an aircraft at Springbrook Prairie does require a permit.
“The Springbrook Prairie Model Airfield is part of the DuPage County Forest Preserve. And to fly out here, members have to get a permit from the Forest Preserve. They have to be an AMA member, which is the Model Association for Aircraft. And by joining our club, they also get insurance through our club and the AMA to fly out here,” said Cairns.
The group held the event to coincide with National Night Out. Cairns says he hopes to spread awareness of the field and this high-flying hobby.
“Hopefully we get to meet you someday,” said Cairns. “Come out and fly.”
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