Mini RC airplanes
It's a blurry line that defines the size of model planes, but mini rc airplanes can be seen as bridging the gap between micro rc airplanes and the 'standard' size electric planes (we'll just stick with electric for this page...).
Of course, given the vast number of radio control airplanes available these days, there are plenty around that can be put into the 'mini rc airplanes' category, and one such example is the Mini Super Cub, from HobbyZone.
With a wingspan of less than a meter (actual span: 31.75 in / 806 mm) this RTF electric rc airplane is smaller cousin to the hugely popular and successful Super Cub, one of HobbyZone's biggest sellers to date.
The Mini Super Cub RTF (shown left) is a 3 channel plane, like its bigger cousin, and despite its size still features HobbyZone's trusted Anti Crash Technology™, that returns the plane to straight and level flight if the pilot gets in to difficulties.
It doesn't feature the X-Port™ technology though, so aerial games such as parachute dropping and aerial combat can't be enjoyed with this mini rc airplane.
The high wing stability of the Cub gives it a proven track record as a very nice rc airplane for beginners to learn on, and 3 channels instead of 4 keeps things basic until you're ready to make the jump to more advanced planes.
Another example of a similar sized mini rc airplane is the FlyZone Beechcraft Staggerwing, shown below...
At 31 inch wingspan this particular electric rc plane is a popular Ready To Fly choice and, like the Mini Super Cub, is 3 channel to motor, elevator and rudder.
The Staggerwing is a step away from the normal high wing trainer, if you're looking for something different!
Flying mini rc airplanes like these is a lot of fun and you have the advantage of being able to fly them in smaller areas than are necessary for standard size planes. The disadvantage with planes this size is that they don't have to get too far away from you for you to lose clear sight of what they're doing, which way up they are etc.
For this reason alone, you need to be comfortable with flying closer to you than you otherwise might with a larger model.
See the 2 mini rc airplanes shown above in more detail.
Related pages
Micro rc airplanes - examples of smaller 'micro flyers'.
Indoor rc airplanes - a rapidly growing sector of the hobby.
Electric rc airplanes - an overview of 'normal' size electric planes.
How to fly airplanes - RC flight school for beginners.
