Radio-controlled aircraft swap meet coming to Apple Creek
Radio-controlled aircraft are built to scale and represent just about every type of airplane out there, from turboprops and jets to military fighters and floaters.
Anyone who has ever wanted to know more about flying radio-controlled aircraft has an ideal opportunity to do so on Saturday, April 27. Two area RC clubs are teaming up to host a swap meet that day at the Fairlawn Mennonite Church in Apple Creek from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Adam Hile is the treasurer of the Wayne County RC Club and coordinator of the swap meet. He said the event is more than just a chance for RC aircraft owners to sell or buy planes and components.
“It’s also a way for members to find other people who are interested in RC flying or that may want to buy planes or parts,” Hile said. “We’ll have airplanes, helicopters and probably a few multi-rotors.”
Multi-rotors are drones, and Hile said they have been gaining popularity among RC enthusiasts in recent years.
RC planes are built to scale and represent just about every type of aircraft, from turboprops and jets to military fighters and floaters. Some even have LED lights embedded in the fuselage so the cockpit is visible when flying at night.
Robert Draman, president of the Oldtown Valley Flyers Club, said the two clubs want to bring attention to the sport of RC flying, especially among younger people.
“Coming to a swap meet, people can see all of the components of the hobby,” he said. “They’ll learn about family projects children and parents can do together and what a child might be able to purchase. Often at the meets, you can pick up an RC plane at about half of what a new one would cost. It’s a good way to add to one’s hangar at a good price.”
How to earn your wings
Both clubs have active rosters and will be happy to share information about membership. According to Hile, the Wayne County RC Club averages about 40-50 members a year and has been around since the 1960s. The Oldtown Valley Flyers has been active for more than 35 years and currently has 41 members.
Draman said their club, which is located in the Bolivar area, has been fairly successful in attracting younger members. Thirteen of their members are under the age of 50, and six of those are under 18.
“We’re glad to see them get away from the Nintendo and X-Box and come outside,” Draman said.
Both clubs maintain flying fields where members meet, fly their aircraft, and share their knowledge and love of the sport.
Admission and table rentals
Admission to the swap meet for spectators is $5 per person, with a spouse and kids age 12 and under admitted free. Those who are already involved in the RC sport and wish to rent a table can do so as long as availability lasts. Call or email Draman at 330-988-2574 or rangenorka01@outlook.com.
Tables are available for $15, or exhibitors can pay $10 for 8 feet of space and bring their own table. The exhibitor fee includes one free admission.
A concession stand will serve sloppy joes, coneys, hot dogs, doughnuts and other refreshments. Hile said there will be a 50/50 raffle and various raffles throughout the day. Seller setup will be from 8-9 a.m. with doors opening to the public at 9 a.m.
Both clubs maintain websites where more information can be found including membership details. Visit www.waynecountyradiocontrolclub.com and www.oldtownvalleyflyers.org.
For questions on the swap meet other than table rentals, email or call Hile at ahile@aol.com or 330-466-6939. The Fairlawn Mennonite Church is located at 8520 Emerson Road in Apple Creek.