athomas@aikenstandard.com
Aiken skies will be filled with miniature planes Saturday as local pilots navigate their radio-controlled aircraft up to 400 feet in the air.
The Aiken Radio Control Society will hold its third free "Cub-In," or fly-in, event at its RC Aircraft Flying Field, about 10 miles east of downtown Aiken, near 347 Coleman Bridge Road. The event begins at 8 a.m., lasting until around 5 p.m. Fifteen to 20 flyers are expected to participate, showcasing their aircraft that will have wingspans between 2 and 8 feet and weigh up to 50 pounds.
All RC aircraft can participate, but all Cub aircraft will receive scoring advantages in skill competitions.
Aiken Radio Control Society Secretary/Treasurer Glenn Fields describes Cubs as high-winged, trainer-type airplanes.
Fields said Cub aircraft recover from problems easier because of their smaller engine and slower speed compared to other aircraft. Although some aircraft can reach speeds up to 75 mph, Cub planes typically max out at 20 mph.
Some of the events include a timed ground-pylon race and a spot-landing event that gives awards to the best pilots. Rules can be found at http://aikenrc.com/2015-cub-in-event-rules/.
The society also will provide free flying time for all registered pilots. Pilots must present their current Academy of Model Aeronautics, or AMA, membership card to register and fly aircraft.
The event welcomes visitors to come watch the flying. A map to the field can be found at http://aikenrc.com/map-to-our-flying-field/.
The 32-member society is a nonprofit community-based group that practices flying radio-controlled model aircraft. There are five AMA charter clubs within 25 miles of Aiken, including the Aiken Radio Control Society and four more clubs within 50 miles.
For more information on the event, call 803-226-9775.