The Philippines is home to many wonderful sights and amazing tourist destinations. However, the country is also a hotspot for various outdoor activities and hobbies, which includes surfing, cave diving, snorkeling, and flying RC planes. For RC planes, there are several flying competitions that local and foreign hobbyists participate in every year.

Because of how popular RC planes are in the Philippines, it wouldn’t be surprising if there are a lot of people each year that are trying to get into the hobby. 

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned flyer, choosing an RC plane can be quite tricky, especially with the vast array of models available in the Philippines. With so many options to choose from, it’s essential to know what to look for when buying an RC plane.

Pick your preferred type of RC plane

RC Planes come in different types, from model and build to suitability to one’s skill level. From beginners to advanced pilots, there are options ranging from gliders to jets, and everything in between. 

RC planes can be categorized into three sub-groups: fixed-wing (airplane), helicopter, and multicopter.

Fixed-wing aircrafts are RC planes that cannot take off vertically. These include gliders, powered gliders, vintage RC airplanes, RC floatplanes and seaplanes, trainers, and sport and aerobatic planes.

Fixed-wing RC planes also have scale models of popular civilian and military planes, which are mostly electric flyers. Warbirds meanwhile are reminiscent of fighter planes used during the WW1 and WW2; the latter included in the historical timeline of the Philippines. These aircrafts are more ideal for advanced RC plane hobbyists.

Helicopters are considered the most advanced RC plane model, not to mention the most in demand in the industry. It is very suitable for beginners and those who wish to improve their flying hand control skills, since it can fly a variety of movements.

Helicopters can be classified as either single rotor or coaxial RC helicopters, the latter being more stable and easier to fly than the single-rotor helicopter.

Lastly, there are multicopters, or multi-axis aircrafts, whose motion is controlled by speeding or slowing the propeller units. They require an on-board computer to maintain a stable flight.

Set your budget

RC planes come in various sizes and types, with prices ranging from affordable to expensive. Without a budget in mind, it can be easy to get carried away and purchase a model that exceeds your financial capacity. Setting a budget will help you narrow down your options and ensure that you can afford the model you choose. 

When planning to buy an RC plane in the Philippines, you must first check how much the planes cost. It helps to read reviews and get feedback from other buyers to understand the quality of the model you intend to buy.

You may also want to consider the brand, since some brands are known for making high-quality RC planes.  It is also essential to check the specifications and features of the plane to ensure that it meets your requirements.

Choose a reliable hobby shop

Not all hobby shops that sell RC planes are created equal. With that said, it is important to do your research first before going to a store to buy an RC plane. 

It is best to go online first, and look for the most reputable hobby shops in the Philippines. You may check out their social media pages, online stores, reviews from RC plane enthusiasts, to know the products they offer, the quality of these products, and how well they are received by the community. 

Once you have narrowed down your choice of hobby shop, it would be easier for you to shop for an RC plane that meets your needs and preferences.

It is also recommended to seek out reviews from other customers who have visited these hobby shops. By doing so, you can gain valuable insights into the level of satisfaction others have experienced with the shop’s product quality, customer service, and overall shopping experience.

Things to consider before making a purchase

While the Philippines is known to be a hubspot of RC plane enthusiasts, not all brands and models of RC planes are available in the country. You may want to check out which ones are available in the Philippines and if they are the products that you are looking for. 

Among the things to consider when buying an RC plane are the flight time, battery life, and durability.

\Flight time refers to the duration the RC plane can stay airborne on a single battery charge. It is crucial to check the manufacturer’s specifications to determine the expected flight time of the plane. 

The average flight time of an RC plane ranges between a few minutes to about an hour, depending on the motor power, battery capacity, and environmental conditions. Of course, a longer flight time is more ideal since it allows you to maximize the plane’s flying experience.

It is also a must that you check the RC plane’s battery requirements – such as the battery type, charging needs, and the battery life.  These factors help determine the amount of time you can operate the plane.

Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries are the most popular type for RC planes due to their high power output and energy density. However, they require proper handling and charging to prevent damage and safety hazards. It’s also important to consider the battery’s voltage and capacity to ensure it matches the plane’s requirements.

Lastly, when buying an RC plane, consider its durability.  It is essential to choose a plane that is built to withstand crashes and rough landings, as these are inevitable in the world of RC flying. Look for planes made from sturdy materials such as foam or carbon fiber, and check for reinforced wings and fuselage. 

Also, look at the quality of the landing gear and the strength of the motor. Investing in a durable RC plane will not only save you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs, but it will also provide you with a more enjoyable flying experience.

Conclusion

Buying RC planes in the Philippines requires research, knowledge, and patience. By considering the factors mentioned above, such as the type of plane, its size, finding the reputable shops and looking at the prices, you can make an informed decision when purchasing an RC plane. 

With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to find the RC plane for you and enjoy hours of fun flying time.