Exploring the World of Big Remote Airplanes - Size, Benefits, and Uses

Exploring the World of Big Remote Airplanes – Size, Benefits, and Uses

Remote control airplanes have been a popular pastime for many enthusiasts since their invention in the 1930s. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend towards larger, more impressive models known as “big remote airplanes.” These planes can range in size from several feet to over eight feet in wingspan, and they offer a unique experience compared to their smaller counterparts. With advances in technology and improved materials, big remote airplanes have become more accessible and affordable for hobbyists around the world. Whether it’s for the thrill of piloting a giant plane or capturing stunning aerial footage, the popularity of big remote airplanes continues to grow, capturing the attention of aviation enthusiasts and hobbyists alike. In this article, we will examine the world of big remote airplanes, from their benefits and challenges to their uses and costs.

Big remote airplanes, as the name suggests, are larger-than-average remote-controlled aircraft that deliver an unparalleled experience to RC pilots. Their size and scale offer a unique perspective and experience compared to smaller planes. These planes can weigh anywhere from five to over fifty pounds and can have wingspans ranging from a few feet to over eight feet. Some of their defining characteristics include:

  • Realistic scale and details, such as landing gear, body construction and airplane engines.
  • Ability to carry more equipment and payloads
  • Stable and consistent flight due to their size
  • Fly at faster speeds compared to smaller RC planes

Some popular big remote airplane manufacturers include Horizon Hobby, Giant Scale Planes and Motion RC, which offer a variety of types, styles and sizes of big remote airplanes. These planes can be purchased either pre-assembled, partially assembled, or in kits where the buyer must build the plane themselves. The cost of these airplanes can vary from a few hundred to thousands of dollars depending on the manufacturer, size and complexity of the aircraft.

Which is the world biggest remote control Aeroplane?

The world’s biggest remote control airplane is the Antonov An-225 Mriya model with a wingspan of 80 feet and length of 84 feet. It has a maximum takeoff weight of 1.3 million pounds and can carry up to 550,000 pounds of cargo. Such models are available for hobbyists, but these are scaled-down versions and not as large as the actual plane. For more information on remote control airplanes, websites such as Horizon Hobby and Tower Hobbies provide a wide range of options and accessories for enthusiasts of all levels.

The Benefits of Owning a Big Remote Airplane

Owning a big remote airplane can be an exciting and rewarding experience for people interested in the hobby. Some benefits of owning a big remote airplane include:

  • Realism: Big remote airplanes offer a more realistic representation of real-life airplanes, equipped with real airplane engines and scale details like landing gear.
  • Photography and Videography: The large size and stability of big remote airplanes make it possible to attach cameras and capture stunning aerial photos and videos.
  • Speed: These airplanes can fly at faster speeds compared to smaller remote-controlled planes, offering more exhilarating experiences to pilots.
  • Longevity: Due to their size and construction, these airplanes are often more durable and last longer than their smaller counterparts.

However, big remote airplanes come with a unique set of challenges that should be considered before making a purchase, including:

  • Cost: Big remote airplanes can be quite expensive to purchase upfront and require significant investments in equipment and maintenance costs.
  • Storage and Transportation: These airplanes are large and require significant storage space and transportation, making them harder to handle and move around.
  • Flying Experience: Piloting a big remote airplane requires more skill and experience compared to flying smaller planes. Beginners may need to invest time and effort in learning how to fly these planes effectively.

If you’re considering owning a big remote airplane, there are plenty of online resources available to help you research and make an informed decision. Some popular websites to visit include RCGroups, Reddit RC Planes and Flite Test. These websites offer tips, tricks, and a community of fellow RC plane enthusiasts who can help answer questions and guide you through the purchasing process.

Pros Cons
Realistic Scale and Details Expensive to Purchase
Photography and Videography Capabilities Requires Significant Storage and Transportation Space
Ability to Fly at High Speeds Requires a High Level of Skill to Pilot
Long Lasting Durability

What are remote control airplanes used for?

Remote control airplanes are used for a variety of purposes including:

  • Recreation and hobby
  • Racing competition
  • Aerial photography and videography
  • Scientific research and experimentation
  • Military training and surveillance
  • Search and rescue operations

For those looking to purchase a remote control airplane, websites such as Horizon Hobby and Tower Hobbies offer a wide variety of options suitable for both beginners and advanced flyers.


Big remote airplanes serve many purposes beyond just recreational flying. Here are some of the different uses of these airplanes:

  • Aerial Photography and Videography: As previously mentioned, the large size and stability of big remote airplanes make them an ideal platform for capturing aerial photographs and videos. Professionals use these airplanes to capture images of landscapes, buildings, and other structures.
  • Air Shows and Competitions: Big remote airplanes are often used in air shows and competitions where contestants showcase their flying skills and aircraft capabilities. These events attract RC plane enthusiasts from all around the world.
  • Scientific and Research: Big remote airplanes are essential in scientific and research applications, such as aerial surveys, mapping, and weather tracking. These airplanes can be equipped with sensors and other instrumentation to collect data from different altitudes and locations.
  • Education: Remote-controlled airplanes have become a valuable teaching tool in STEM education. Big remote airplanes can be used to teach students about aerodynamics, physics, and engineering principles.

If you’re interested in purchasing a big remote airplane, there are several options available in the market. Some popular brands include:

These brands offer different models of big remote airplanes that cater to various skill levels and interests. Before making a purchase, it’s essential to do proper research and read reviews from trusted sources. Google, Amazon, and the websites mentioned in the previous paragraphs are great places to start looking for products and resources.

Interesting Fact: The world’s largest remote-controlled airplane is a model of the Airbus A380 commercial airliner developed by Peter Michel. This RC plane has a wingspan of 17 feet and weighs over 170 pounds. It was created using lightweight materials and is powered by four jet turbines. This plane holds the Guinness World Record for the largest remote-controlled model airplane.

How far can a remote control plane fly?

There are various factors that determine the maximum distance a remote control plane can fly. Some of these are:

  • The type of battery and its capacity
  • The power of the motor and the size of the propellers used
  • The weight of the plane and the components used in its construction
  • The weather conditions and wind speed at the time of flight

While some remote control planes may only be able to fly for a few hundred meters, others can travel for several kilometers. Some popular remote control planes and their maximum flying distance are:

Brand Model Maximum Flying Distance
DJI Mavic 2 Pro 18 kilometers (11.2 miles)
Parrot ANAFI FPV 4 kilometers (2.5 miles)
E-flite Opterra 2m more than 2 kilometers (1.2 miles)

It is important to note that the maximum flying distance quoted by manufacturers is often under ideal conditions and may vary depending on various factors.


Big remote airplanes are not only a fun hobby, but they are also an excellent platform for various applications, including photography, videography, research, and education. Remote-controlled airplanes are becoming increasingly popular, and the demand for big remote airplanes is growing. The market offers many options for big remote airplanes. It’s crucial to do thorough research before purchasing a big RC airplane to ensure that it meets your needs and skill level.

When it comes to purchasing big remote airplanes, there are a few things you should consider. First, decide on your budget and stick to it. A big remote airplane could cost you anywhere between $300 to $5000. Consider your skill level, pick a plane that matches your flying expertise. Check out reviews for the brands and models that interest you from reliable sources to ensure that the product performs up to expectations. Lastly, invest in good quality equipment, including a remote controller and batteries, to ensure the best flying experience.

In conclusion, big remote airplanes offer a unique experience for both hobbyists and professionals alike. These airplanes open up new opportunities for various fields, including photography, videography, scientific research, and education. A big remote airplane can cost a significant amount of money, so it’s vital to take the time to research to ensure that you invest in a model that fits your skill level and budget. Big remote airplanes are an exciting and challenging hobby that can provide hours of fun and entertainment for anyone interested in the thrill of flying.