Learning to fly is a big step for any kid, and they can easily get downhearted when presented with an overly complicated remote control plane that comes with more buttons and levers than you’d find in a real cockpit. Luckily, there are some excellent planes out there for beginners to help them take to the skies without too much fuss.
These planes don’t take a lot of setting up and they’re sturdy enough to survive the inevitable plummet to the ground, but still deliver all the thrills a junior pilot could want. We’re confident you’ll find the perfect beginner craft here as we’ve done our research based on real recommendations and grounded any planes with fake or stolen reviews because air safety is serious business. We regularly update our guides with the latest customer sentiment analysis so you can be confident that you will find the right beginner RC plane for your kid.
If outdoors sounds a bit much, we also have a guide on the very best indoor RC helicopters and even hand-controlled drones that you might enjoy.
3 Best Beginner RC Planes In 2022:
1. POWERUP 4.0 – Modern Paper Airplane Kit
What I love about this remote control plane is that it provides a ton more STEM value than your ,standard airplane kit. From a 30 minute charge you can get 10 minutes of flightime and control can all be done by a smartphone. Like with a traditional paper air plane you can be super creative with new designs with the option for extras via additional kits.
It can reach speeds of 20mph and has a working range of 230ft and it works with paper, foam and balsa wood models so way more chance that this kit will still be used well into your kid’s teenage years.
Notable Features
• Carbon Fibre material
• USB micro charging
• Loops, Barrel Rolls, & Hammerheads are achieved with the special Acro Mode!
• 10 minutes flight time with a single charge
• Can use multiple materials for the plane
• Recommended for 14 years and older
What we love:
❤️So many possible designs you can make so far more learning opportunities
❤️Can use paper, foam, and even balsa wood
❤️The controls via the app are super simple
❤️You can operate the plane even when it is 230 feet away
We don’t like this as much:
💔It’s easy to break the propellers so make sure you only fly in good weather
💔Not as easy as the traditional kits to fly for beginners RC airplanes
- PILOTED FLIGHT - Grab a sheet of paper, fold it, and go! Instantly put yourself in the cockpit of an amazing smartphone controlled paper airplane that does high speed tricks. The bluetooth module, which includes autopilot control, connects to your phone so you can experience the sensation of flying countless paper, foam, and even Balsa Wood airplane models.
- INCREDIBLE STABILITY - Loops, Barrel Rolls, & Hammerheads are achieved with the special Acro Mode! Your paper plane’s onboard computer automatically calibrates your paper airplane for imperfect weather with a built-in launch assist and wind stabilizer. Now hobbyists, tinkerers, or students can become the flight controller!
- CONNECTED FLYING - Pair your plane with the POWERUP App to maneuver your plane, keep a robust flight log, compete with other flyers on the leaderboard, and learn to fold new plane designs.
- RAPID CHARGING - A 30 minute quick charge gives you 10 minutes of flight time along with an incredible range of up to 230ft! Traveling up to 20mph, your plane will spend less time on the tarmac and more time in the air. Simply connect the included micro USB cable to a charging port and plot out your next journey.
- STEM READY - Experience the aerodynamic forces that make flight possible through various wing configurations. Lift, drag, thrust, and gravity are learned first hand. Purchase the Night-Flight Kit and Accessory Kit to see how different parts create a new experience. Great for an outdoor class or exploration together with family.
2. LEAMBE P-51D Mustang
This RC plane features three modes: beginner, intermediate, and experienced modes. You can, therefore, use it to learn how to fly as fast or as slow as you want. It features elastomer foam construction that makes it light so that you can fly it for long distances. Even better, the plane sports advanced propeller saver technology that protects the propeller from damage. It is easy for users to fix back the propeller and continue with their flight after the unit falls apart.
LEAMBE RC Plane features a 360 ma rechargeable battery that can fly for up to 12 minutes on a single charge. You can control it over a distance of 300 feet. This is a large plane with a fuselage length of 14 inches and a wingspan of 15 inches. The advanced Xpilot gyro stabilizer in this plane keeps it stable regardless of the speed the plane flies at.
Notable Features
• 4-Channel RC plane
• Xpilot gyro stabilizer
• One-key U-turn and aerobatics
• 12 minutes flight time with a single charge
• 15 inches wing span
• Elastomer foam construction
• Recommended for 14 years and older
What we love:
❤️You can change the modes as your skills advance to have even more fun
❤️The plane is made of durable elastomer foam with a propeller protection feature to last long
❤️The controls on the remote are easy to use for all use levels
❤️You can operate the plane even when it is 300 feet away
We don’t like this as much:
💔 Thanks to its lightweight construction, the plane cannot withstand strong winds
💔You can only fly it for 12 minutes on a single charge, which is relatively low
- FLIGHT STABILITY AND EASY TO FIY: The P51 Mustang remote-controlled aircraft is made of lightweight elastomer foam and can fly in outdoors. Enough light and high flexibility material make the RC plane easy to fly
- 3 MODES THAT EASY TO CONTROL: Beginner, Intermediate and Experienced 3 Modes which makes you easy to learn to fly the plane at your own pace. Amazing Gift item for adults and kids
- NEW TECHNOLOGY TO PROTECT AIRPLANE FROM DAMAGE: New Propeller Saver Technology which is used to save the RC plane from damage. And its easy to install the propeller back to the plane
- PRODUCT INFORMATIONS:This P51 Mustang RC Plane Glider Has A Fuselage Length Of 14 Inches, Wingspan: 15 Inches, Battery: 3.7v 360mah. And 2.4Ghz Radio Control distance of within 656 feet. 8mm Coreless Motor, Flying time of up to 12 min on a single charge
- XPILOT STABILIZATION SYSTEM EASY TO FLY: The Xpilot gyro stabilizer provides ultra-stable self-stabilization for easy flying. The powerful over-grade motor system enables easy control for aerobatic maneuvers
3. LEAMBE F4U Corsair
LEAMBE F4U Corsair is so easy to fly – press the switch and then use the stick to control the aerobatics of the plane. Once charged, the plane can be airborne for up to 15 minutes before you can recharge it again – this is a distance of up to 656 feet. This is a small size plane that is 14 inches in length with a wingspan of 15 inches. It has three propellers that give a satisfying thrust when you fly it at top speed.
To make it fly stably, LEAMBE integrates Xpilot Stabilization System that keeps it on the air for long. The use of lightweight EPP foam material ensures that the plane is easy to carry, and it also flies with ease. Even better, the material withstands crashes to last long. It comes pre-assembled and ready to fly – just attach the wheels and switch them on to get it on the move.
Notable Features
• 4-Channel control
• Xpilot Stabilization System
• 14 inches long and 15 inches wingspan
• Recommended for 14 years and older
• One-key U-turn and aerobatics
• Three-level flight control system
What we love:
❤️The plane comes with a reliable flight assistant system so that you can enjoy every flight
❤️Easy one-key operation and aerobatics make it ideal for beginners
❤️The plane features a propeller drop protector to keep it running without damage
❤️Adjust the operation modes based on your skill level so that you never have to buy an advanced plane when your skills improve
We don’t like this as much:
💔 The landing gear positions are unbalanced and this may cause a crash once in a while
- Easy control: LEAMBE Airplane has a simple operation mode which only needs to press the switch and pull the stick to easily control the aerobatics of the aircraft. It can take off after you assemble the wheels, and it is also convenient to carry. Best outdoor games and toys for you
- Long time flying: Each battery provides up to 15 minutes of flight time (Include 2 batteries). The powerful thrust and power system enables the aircraft to have excellent flying speed. The longest flying distance of this product is 656 feet, so you can enjoy the pleasure and remote control flight experience
- Suitable for beginners: LEAMBE aircraft has flight control assistance, which can help beginners gradually learn how to control the aircraft. And the assistance system also can provide users with a stable flight experience. This product supports both horizontal ground take-off and throw take-off. Because the product has great stability. The three-level flight control can easily perform stunts, and the solid RC aircraft wheels can land safely and smoothly
- Product information: The airplane is made of EPP foam crash-resistant material, the fuselage length of this RC aircraft is 14 inches, wingspan (15 inches)and it includes 2 batteries and 5 propellers(3-bladed propeller*3, 2-bladed propeller*2) . The plane comes with propeller save which keeps the propeller from damage
- XPILOT STABILIZATION SYSTEM EASY TO FLY XPILOT Stabilization: The Xpilot gyro stabilizer provides ultra-stable self-stabilization for easy flying. The powerful over-grade motor system enables easy control for aerobatic maneuvers
4. VOLANTEXRC RC Ranger600
The Ranger600 brings all the advanced features you need to enjoy a great flight. First off, you get the Xpilot Stabilization System that makes your plane easy to control. The motor system gives you the speed you need on open grounds while making this RC plane easier to control. You can adjust the flight control levels from beginner to intermediate and experienced.
You can control the plane for up to 656 feet with the 2.4Ghz radio frequency control remote. It offers a strong anti-interference ability so that you can see off the plane over a long distance. One of the strengths of this model is that you can fly it for up to 30 minutes before the need to recharge. Its glider design allows it to fly for short periods without power support, which is why it flies for a long period.
Notable Features
• XPILOT stabilization system
• EPP foam construction
• 3-channel operation
• 400 mAh Lipo rechargeable battery
• 23.6 inches long and 18.1 inches wingspan
• Recommended for 14 years and older
• One-key U-turn
What we love:
❤️ The flight time of up to 30 minutes is relatively impressive as others fly for as few as 12 minutes
❤️ The stabilization system is effective even at very high speeds
❤️ You will have easy controls for all operation levels
❤️The plane comes fully assembled and ready to fly
We don’t like this as much:
💔 The motor starts to make a little noise after a few flights
- RC PLANE EASY TO CONTROL: Xpilot stabilizer makes the rc glider be able to fly stably even in breeze. Powerful upgrade motor system allows easy controlling to do aerobatic flying. It's a great remote control plane for adults.
- BEGINNERS' FIRST RC AIRPLANE TRAINER: 3-level flight control assists(Beginner level with full assist/ Intermediate with partial assist/ Expert for manual control) help beginners learn to fly rc plane step by step.
- GREAT RC GLIDER FOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: 2.4Ghz remote control system with control range of 656 ft, the strong anti-interference ability allows pilots hold a small flight club party for fun. Just come and have fun with this rc airplane.
- MORE LONGER TIME MORE FUN: Due to the pusher glider design, the rc plane can slowly fly in the sky without power support, which can save more power and get a longer flying time than other rc planes.
- REMOTE CONTROL PLANE READY TO FLY: Comes with plane, transmitter, batteries of plane and some spare parts, only requires 4pcs AA batteries for transmitter. It is fully assembled to get the rc plane taken off for quick start and the portable packing box helps you take it to everywhere easily.
5. E-flite UMX Turbo Timber BNF Basic RC Airplane
The E-flite UMX Turbo Timber is a smaller version of the popular UMX Timber 1.5m. This model was engineered to be lightweight and more powerful with a 3400Kv motor and three-blade propellers to give it a thrust. It has enough thrust to hover and climb vertically and is capable of short take-off and landing. Features, such as drooped wingtips and a high-power brushless motor allow the airplane to spring into the air and then float down within a short distance.
The advanced permanent landing gear offer fairings that secure the oversized wheels to make an excellent landing. At night, you can switch on the realistic LED lights for easy landing and navigation, and it also has strobe lights. The plane comes fully assembled with 6+ channels and a powerful Spektrum 2.4GHz control tech for easy control.
Notable Features
• 6+ channel control
• 26 inches in length and 26 inches wingspan
• 10 minutes flight time
• Recommended for 15 years and older
• 3400kV motor system
• LED navigation, landing, and strobe lights
• 280 mAh LiPo rechargeable batteries
What we love:
❤️The plane is fast, and you can use it for advanced levels as well as beginner levels
❤️ You have 6+ channel control, allowing you to control different aspects of the flight
❤️ The motor system is powerful, giving you the thrust you need regardless of the direction the plane is flying
❤️ You will have LED lights to use at night for landing and navigation
We don’t like this as much:
💔 Flight time is only about 10 minutes with a single charge, so you might need more battery sets
- EASY TO FLY RC PLANE: Easy to fly with optional-use SAFE Select flight envelope protection.
- UNMATCHED CAPABILITY: Functional oversized flaps for shorter takeoffs and landings.
- FULLY ASSEMBLED: Fully factory-assembled and ready to fly right out the box
- HIGH PERFORMANCE: Incredible Short Take Off and Landing (STOL) plus sport and aerobatic flight capabilities.
- BIND-N-FLY BASIC: With BNF Basic products you can use the transmitter of your choice and bind it to the Spektrum 6-Channel Receiver included with this model.
6. VOLANTEXRC Aileron Sport Cub 500 Parkflyer RC Airplane
This is another RC plane for beginners. It sports the advanced Xpilot Gyro Stabilize system that keeps the plane stable in the air. Under its hood is a powerful motor system that gives you the thrust you need with easy control for aerobatic flying. The model offers three-level flight control assists for beginners, intermediate, and experts. The detailed manual allows you to learn to fly one step at a time.
Each unit comes with a 2.4GHz radio control that gives you access to the plane when it is 656 feet away. With a single charge, you can fly this plane for up to 20 minutes, which is relatively impressive. Everything comes fully assembled and ready to roll so that the plane can get airborne within a minute of unboxing it.
Notable Features
• 20.47 inches long and 20.47 inches wingspan
• 2 rechargeable Lithium Metal batteries
• 4 channel control
• EPP foam construction
• Xpilot Stabilization System
• One-key U-turn and One-Key aerobatics
• 20 minutes flight time
• Recommended for 14 years and older
What we love:
❤️You have more control of the plane in any of the three modes of operation
❤️ The plane flies for up to 20 minutes with a single charge, which is relatively impressive
❤️ The parts feature high-quality EPP foam material that makes the plane durable
❤️ Kids, as well as adults, can fly the plane
We don’t like this as much:
💔 The landing gear is weak and might break after a single-use, land the plane by hand
- [Easy to Fly RC Plane] With its powerful motor-gear system and Xpilot gyro stabilizer, this stable, remote-controlled aircraft allows pilots to perform aerobatics and fly in light wind. An ideal RC airplane for grownups just starting out
- [RC Plane for Beginners and Experts] Beginners can learn to fly using 3 levels of flight control assistance: beginner (full assist), intermediate (half assist), and expert (manual control). Expert pilots can also get some show time with this RC airplane right away
- [RC Plane with Advanced Features] Press the button, hold the left stick, and throw it out. It will take off and hover in the sky, waiting for your command. During flight, simply push a button for aerobatic fun
- [RC Plane for Outdoor Adventure] Pilots can enjoy a little flying club party with a 2.4GHz remote control system that has strong anti-interference capabilities and a control range of 656 feet. Come enjoy some fun with this remote-control airplane
- [Thrust Trainer RC Plane Ready to Fly] The RC plane's gearbox system increases its thrust and efficiency, allowing pilots to extend its flying time and speed. With this system, the plane may fly continuously for up to 20 minutes
7. EagleStone A200
If you are looking for an absolute beginner RC plane, this model will meet your needs. It sports a sleek fighter-jet design that makes it look great and allows it to fly for longer, thanks to better aerodynamics. Each package includes three sets of batteries, each allowing you to fly for up to 15 minutes – so you have up to 45 minutes of flight time. It is a 2-channel flight that allows you to move it right, left, up, and down – exactly what an absolute beginner is looking for. Its radio control works over a distance of 492 feet, allowing you a great flight experience. Even better, the plane sports a built-in self-stabilization system, so you can fly it for long distances in a stable manner. Although it features durable EPP foam construction, the model still comes with four spare propellers.
Notable Features
• 15 minutes fight time with a single charge
• 350mAh rechargeable LiPo battery
• 2-channel control
• 15.98 inches long and 11.93 inches wingspan
• Recommended for 8 years and older
• EPP foam construction
What we love:
❤️ This is the simplest RC plane to fly with kids as young as 8 being able to fly it
❤️It comes with three sets of batteries to keep you on the air for up to 45 minutes
❤️ You also get spare propellers to enhance the durability of the RC plane
❤️It comes ready to fly with everything assembled at the factory
We don’t like this as much:
💔 You do not have the many controls you may need such as U-turn and speed
- Easy-to-Control Flying Experience: This remote control plane features a self-stabilization gyro system and simple controls, making it easy for beginners to fly. Just a switch press and joystick manipulation are needed to enjoy its aerobatic capabilities, making it an ideal gift for kids aged 8-12.
- Advanced 2.4GHz Radio Control: The remote control operates the plane in four directions (up/down, left/right) with a maximum range of 492 ft, allowing for an impressive flight experience. The plane is easy to assemble with quick installation of the battery, wheels, and tail, perfect for outdoor play.
- Extended Flight Time: Includes three 3.7v 150 mAh Li-polymer batteries, each providing up to 10 minutes of flight time. This enables longer flying sessions and the opportunity for small group flying activities.
- Durable and Lightweight Design: Made of EPP foam, the plane is crash-resistant and durable, yet lightweight. Its dimensions are 10.6 inches in fuselage length and 12.4 inches in wingspan. Comes with four extra propellers to minimize damage from crashes.
- Reliable Technical Support: Offers after-sales technical support for any flying difficulties encountered. Customers are encouraged to read the product description and caution items thoroughly before use. Note: The plane should be flown in open areas to avoid interference.
Note – we updated this list in July 2022 based on certain planes being unavailable and we wanted to include some newer models.
FAQ Beginner RC Planes:
Picking the Right RC Airplane Based on Number of Channels
RC planes feature a radio channel for every control they allow. A beginner RC plane will likely have three channels with the most basic having two channels. Those with advanced flying skills can go for planes with up to 15 channels. Stick to four channels or fewer to make your training easier.
• Two-channel planes are the easiest to control. These planes allow you to control up and down pitch and the right and left movements. They mostly fly at a single speed. You can go for these planes when shopping for young flyers or complete beginners.
• Three-channel planes are ideal for complete beginners, but even intermediate flyers will enjoy flying them. These planes allow you to control the rudder for left and right steering, pitching to move up and down, and the throttle that controls how fast they fly.
• Four-channel RC planes are for beginners who feel confident in themselves. They offer all the controls that a three-channel RC plane offers, but they also allow the plane to bank left or right.
As your flying skills advance, you can go for more channels for more controls.
What to look for when choosing the right RC plane for the first time
• Speed – RC planes fly between 20 mph and 110 mph. For beginners, you need to pick slower planes or planes that allow you to control the speed. As your skills improve, you can adjust the speed as you like.
• Age Recommendation – Flying an RC plane, especially one with three or more controls requires coordination and common sense. Check the age guidelines on the RC plane you plan to buy to ensure you have the best product for your kid.
• Power Source – Most RC planes feature rechargeable batteries in them and AA batteries in the controller. However, a few models may have the standard AA batteries in place of the rechargeable batteries. Check the kind of batteries that an RC plane uses and how affordable these batteries are.
• Availability of Storage – The standard RC plane requires about one square foot. Large RC planes can take up to three by four feet of space. Do you have the space for these large planes?
• Durability – There are different types of foam used to make RC planes. However, when accessing the durability of a plane, consider the landing gear. Some planes feature single-use landing gear that may crash after the first use, while others feature permanent landing gear that withstands multiple uses.
