Flying High - reach the skies with model aircraft

Andy Burton is passionate about his job as an electrician (he’s the MD of Burton Electrical Solutions) but he’s equally passionate about his hobby – flying. Andy is not only a qualified pilot, flying a Cessna 150 or Cessna 172, he also has a full set of certificates to fly radiocontrolled fixed wing and rotary model aircraft. 

Andy flies Cessnas as a member of Hull Aero Club out of Beverley Aerodrome which is at Linley Hill near Leven. This club also has an established group of modellers, but there are other groups of modellers which Andy also flies with – The Beverley and District Model Aircraft Club (BADMAC) is based at Meaux and The Westwood Flyers who fly at Burton Bushes opposite Beverley racecourse. Model aircraft flying is often perceived as a hobby for later years, but Andy is really keen to encourage younger people to take up the challenge of this test of concentration.

Flying model aircraft requires as many skills and as much practice as flying a full sized aeroplane! So Andy has joined the 399 (Beverley) Squadron Air Training Corps (ATC), which is based at Longcroft School, as a Civilian Instructor to do just that. As a fully-accredited and insured British Model Flying Association (BMFA) member he intends to bring his recruits up to a basic A Standard so they can fly different types of aircraft solo. Getting started is much easier than it once was when you always had to make your model from scratch and fit it with an engine and radio before you could fly.

Today there are almost-ready-to- fly (ARTF) models available, including training models, which are more stable and also more robust than more advanced models – which makes them easier to repair should you crash! If flying model aircraft is something which you would like to know more about, Andy suggests you contact Hull Aero Club or BADMAC and pop along to see the range of models being flown and maybe try your hand. You will get an introduction to the social side of club membership, too. Or give Andy a call. He would be delighted to enthuse you so you become equally as passionate as he is!

You can get hold of Andy on 07585 601730 or info@burtonelectricalsolutions.co.uk
Hull Aero Club, Beverley Airfield, Linley Hill, Leven, Hu17 5LT
Telephone 01964 544994
BADMAC, Stud Farm, Meaux Lane, Meaux HU17 9SS
399 Beverley Squadron Air Training Corps 01482 880301