RC Plane Wingspan Calculator

The wingspan of an RC plane typically ranges from 20 inches (50 cm) for small micro planes to several feet (1-2 meters) for larger models. The specific wingspan depends on the type of RC plane, its intended purpose, and the manufacturer’s design. It’s important to choose a wingspan that matches your flying preferences and available flying space.

RC Plane Type	Typical Wingspan Range
Micro RC Planes	6 – 18 inches (15 – 45 cm)
Park Flyers	24 – 40 inches (60 – 100 cm)
Sport and Aerobatic	40 – 60 inches (100 – 150 cm)
Scale Models	60 – 80 inches (150 – 200 cm)
Gliders and Sailplanes	60 – 120 inches (150 – 300 cm)
Giant Scale and Jets	80+ inches (200+ cm) and above

FAQs

How do you calculate the wing area of an RC plane? The wing area of an RC plane is typically calculated by multiplying the wingspan (measured from tip to tip) by the average chord length (the width of the wing at its widest point).

What is the ideal wing loading for an RC plane? The ideal wing loading for an RC plane can vary depending on the type of plane and its intended use. However, a general guideline is that lighter wing loading (less weight per unit of wing area) is preferred for slower, more stable flight, while higher wing loading is better for faster and more aerobatic flight. An estimation for a beginner RC plane could be around 10-12 oz/sq ft (30-36 g/sq dm).

How is RC wing loading calculated? RC wing loading is calculated by dividing the total weight of the RC plane (including the battery, electronics, and any additional payload) by the wing area. The result is usually expressed in ounces per square foot or grams per square decimeter.

How do I know what size prop for my RC plane? The size of the propeller for an RC plane depends on several factors, including the type of plane, motor specifications, and desired performance. You can often find recommended propeller sizes in the manufacturer’s documentation for your specific RC plane and motor combination. Additionally, you can experiment with different prop sizes to achieve the desired thrust and performance characteristics.

What is wing formula? The wing formula refers to the mathematical equations used to calculate various aspects of an aircraft’s wing design, including lift, drag, aspect ratio, and wing loading. These equations are fundamental in aircraft aerodynamics.

How do you calculate wing position? The wing position on an aircraft is determined through aerodynamic and structural considerations during the aircraft’s design phase. There isn’t a single formula for calculating wing position; it depends on factors like the desired center of gravity, stability, and control.

Is higher wing loading better? Higher wing loading is generally better for high-speed and aerobatic RC planes as it provides more stability and better performance at higher velocities. However, for slow-flying and stable RC planes, lower wing loading is preferred.

Are RC flying wings hard to fly? RC flying wings can be more challenging to fly than traditional RC planes with fuselages and tails, especially for beginners. They tend to be less stable and may require more skill to control.

How do I choose a wing load? Choosing a wing load for an RC plane depends on your flying style and the type of plane you have. For beginners, a lower wing loading (around 10-12 oz/sq ft or 30-36 g/sq dm) is recommended for stability. More experienced pilots may prefer higher wing loading for faster and more agile flight.

What is the wing to fuselage ratio of an RC plane? The wing-to-fuselage ratio of an RC plane can vary widely depending on the design of the plane. There is no fixed ratio, but it’s typically determined based on the aircraft’s intended purpose, stability requirements, and aerodynamic considerations.

What is the load factor on the wings? The load factor on the wings, often denoted as “n,” represents the ratio of the lift force to the weight of the aircraft. In level flight, the load factor is typically 1 (n = 1). During maneuvers or turbulence, it can increase, causing additional stress on the wings.

Is 3 or 4 blade prop better? The choice between a 3-blade and 4-blade propeller depends on the specific RC plane, motor, and performance goals. Generally, 3-blade props are more efficient for most applications, while 4-blade props may provide better thrust and stability but may be less efficient.

Does diameter on prop make a difference? Yes, the diameter of the propeller significantly affects an RC plane’s performance. A larger propeller diameter can provide more thrust and better efficiency, but it should be chosen based on the motor’s capabilities and the aircraft’s design.

What pitch prop is faster? A propeller with a higher pitch (greater pitch angle) is typically faster, as it generates more thrust in a forward direction. However, the ideal pitch depends on the specific RC plane and its intended use.

How do you measure wing size? The wing size of an RC plane is typically measured by determining the wingspan (the distance from wingtip to wingtip) and the average chord length (the width of the wing at its widest point divided by the number of wing segments).

What is the most efficient wing? The most efficient wing shape depends on the specific application and requirements of the aircraft. For general aviation and most RC planes, wings with moderate aspect ratios and airfoil designs optimized for their intended speed range are considered efficient.

What is the ratio of length to wingspan of a plane? The ratio of length to wingspan varies significantly among different aircraft. There is no fixed standard, as it depends on the aircraft’s design and intended purpose.

What angle should wings be? The angle of an aircraft’s wings, known as the wing dihedral angle, varies depending on the aircraft’s design and intended use. It is typically determined during the aircraft’s design phase to provide stability and control.

What angle does a wing stall at? Wings stall at an angle of attack beyond their critical angle of attack. The exact angle varies depending on the airfoil shape and design but is typically in the range of 12 to 20 degrees for most aircraft.

What is the most stable wing design? The most stable wing design depends on the specific aircraft’s intended use. For general stability, a high-wing design can provide inherent stability. However, other factors like wing dihedral and control surfaces also play a role.

Do bigger wings mean faster flight? Not necessarily. Bigger wings can provide more lift, which can be beneficial for slower flight and improved maneuverability. However, faster flight depends on a combination of factors, including engine power, aerodynamics, and weight.

Is low wing better than high wing? The choice between a low-wing and high-wing configuration depends on the aircraft’s intended use and design goals. Low-wing aircraft may provide better aerodynamic performance, while high-wing aircraft can offer more stability.

Is high wing more stable than low wing? High-wing aircraft tend to be more stable, especially at low speeds and during certain flight conditions, due to their natural pendulum stability. However, the overall stability also depends on other factors, including control surfaces and wing design.

What are the disadvantages of RC planes? Some potential disadvantages of RC planes include the learning curve for beginners, the risk of crashes, the cost of equipment and maintenance, and restrictions on where you can fly them due to safety and legal concerns.

How much RPM is needed to fly an RC plane? The required RPM (revolutions per minute) for an RC plane depends on various factors, including the size of the propeller, the type of motor, and the plane’s design. There is no specific RPM value that applies universally. Manufacturers usually provide recommended RPM ranges for their products.

Does wingspan affect flight? Yes, wingspan significantly affects an aircraft’s flight characteristics. A longer wingspan typically provides more lift and stability, especially at lower speeds. However, it can also impact maneuverability and the aircraft’s ability to handle turbulence.

What is the difference between low wing and high wing RC plane? The main difference between low-wing and high-wing RC planes is the placement of the wings on the fuselage. Low-wing planes have their wings mounted closer to the bottom of the fuselage, while high-wing planes have their wings mounted closer to the top. This configuration affects the aircraft’s stability, aerodynamics, and handling characteristics.

What is the best wing for an aircraft? The best wing for an aircraft depends on the specific requirements and mission of the aircraft. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Wings are designed to optimize various factors such as lift, drag, stability, and maneuverability based on the aircraft’s intended use.

What are the disadvantages of high aspect ratio wings? High aspect ratio wings can provide efficiency benefits but may also have some disadvantages, including increased susceptibility to tip stall, reduced maneuverability, and potentially higher structural loads.

Why are high aspect ratio wings more efficient? High aspect ratio wings are more efficient because they produce less induced drag (drag due to lift) for a given amount of lift. This efficiency is beneficial for achieving longer endurance or better fuel economy in some aircraft.

Why does lift create drag? Lift creates drag because it is associated with the generation of vortices at the wingtips and the creation of induced drag. Induced drag is a byproduct of the lift-producing process and is an inherent characteristic of wings producing lift.

What is the best aspect ratio for an RC plane? The best aspect ratio for an RC plane depends on the specific design and purpose of the aircraft. However, for many RC planes, aspect ratios in the range of 5:1 to 8:1 are common and offer a good balance of lift and efficiency.

How thick should an RC plane wing be? The thickness of an RC plane wing, known as the airfoil’s thickness, varies depending on the design and intended use of the aircraft. Typical airfoil thicknesses for RC planes range from around 8% to 15% of the chord length.

How big should the tail be on an RC plane? The size of the tail (empennage) on an RC plane is determined by the aircraft’s design and stability requirements. It should be proportional to the size and weight of the aircraft to ensure proper control and stability.

Does load factor increase with weight? Yes, load factor increases with weight. Load factor is a measure of the additional force (in terms of G-forces) experienced by an aircraft due to maneuvers or changes in flight conditions. Heavier aircraft experience higher load factors during the same maneuvers.

What is a normal load factor? A normal load factor, often denoted as “n,” is the load factor experienced by an aircraft in straight and level flight. It is typically equal to 1 (n = 1), representing the force of gravity.

What does the amount of excess load on a wing depend on? The amount of excess load (G-forces) on a wing depends on the aircraft’s maneuver, speed, angle of attack, and structural limitations. It’s crucial to stay within the aircraft’s designed load limits to prevent structural damage.

What is the disadvantage of a 4-blade prop? One disadvantage of a 4-blade propeller is that it can generate more drag compared to a 3-blade propeller, potentially reducing overall efficiency and top speed. Additionally, it may require a more powerful motor to achieve similar performance.

Should I go down a pitch for a 4-blade prop? When switching from a 3-blade to a 4-blade propeller, it’s often recommended to decrease the pitch to maintain similar performance levels. The exact adjustment may vary based on the specific propeller and aircraft.

Are stainless props faster than aluminum? Stainless steel props are not inherently faster than aluminum props. Propeller material affects durability and performance characteristics but does not necessarily determine speed. Other factors like pitch and design play a more significant role in speed.

What happens if a prop is too small? If a propeller is too small for the aircraft and motor combination, it may not generate enough thrust to achieve proper flight. This can result in poor performance, difficulty taking off, and reduced overall efficiency.

Can a prop be too big? Yes, a propeller can be too big for an aircraft and motor combination. An oversized propeller may place excessive load on the motor and electrical components, potentially causing overheating or damage.

What does adding more cup to a prop do? Adding more cup (curvature) to a propeller blade can increase its efficiency by improving its ability to grip the air and generate thrust. It can also enhance the propeller’s performance at lower speeds.

What propeller pitch is best for takeoff? The best propeller pitch for takeoff depends on the specific aircraft, motor, and intended takeoff conditions. In general, a propeller with a lower pitch (more “bite”) is better for takeoff, as it provides more initial thrust.

Why is a stainless steel prop better than aluminum? Stainless steel props are often considered better than aluminum props in terms of durability and resistance to corrosion. They are more robust and can withstand impact better, making them suitable for rougher operating conditions.

How do I know what size prop I need? The size of the propeller you need depends on various factors, including your aircraft’s specifications, motor, desired performance, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. You can often find recommended prop sizes in the aircraft’s documentation or by consulting with experienced RC pilots.

Is a 7m wing too big? A 7-meter wing would be exceptionally large for most RC planes. It’s important to consider the scale and purpose of your RC aircraft. Such a large wing would likely be suitable for specialized applications, such as high-altitude gliders, but may not be practical for typical RC planes.

How do you know where to put wings on a plane? The placement of wings on an aircraft is determined during the aircraft’s design phase and depends on factors such as the desired center of gravity, stability, control, and aerodynamics. Engineers and designers use mathematical calculations and simulations to determine the optimal wing position.

What is the average wing size of a plane? The average wing size of a full-scale aircraft varies widely depending on the type and purpose of the aircraft. Small general aviation planes may have wingspans of 10-15 meters, while larger commercial airliners can have wingspans exceeding 60 meters.

Is it better to fly over the wing? Flying “over the wing” typically refers to the seating arrangement on a commercial airliner. It doesn’t affect the aircraft’s flight characteristics but may impact passenger comfort and access to windows and amenities.

Why is low wing better? Low-wing aircraft may offer better aerodynamic performance and stability, especially at higher speeds. They also provide easier access to the cockpit for passengers and crew.

What wing type is ideal for slow speeds? For slow speeds, a high-wing configuration is often preferred, as it provides better stability and lift characteristics at lower airspeeds. High-wing planes are common in general aviation and training aircraft for this reason.

What wingspan would a human need to fly? The wingspan needed for a human to achieve powered flight depends on various factors, including the individual’s weight, the power source, and the design of the aircraft. Achieving human-powered flight with flapping wings, like a bird, would require a wingspan much larger than a human’s arm span.

How do you calculate wing ratio? The term “wing ratio” is not a standard aviation parameter. If you mean aspect ratio, it is calculated by dividing the wingspan by the average chord length.

How to calculate wingspan? Wingspan is measured by determining the distance from one wingtip to the other, passing through the aircraft’s fuselage.

Do wings need to be curved? Wings don’t necessarily need to be curved, but they typically have an airfoil shape that provides lift. The curved shape of the airfoil, along with the angle of attack, helps generate lift by creating pressure differences between the upper and lower surfaces of the wing.

When should I flip my wings? Flipping the wings of an RC plane is a maneuver used for aerobatics and can be performed when the aircraft is at a sufficient altitude. The exact timing and method for flipping the wings depend on the specific aerobatic maneuver you want to execute.

Where do straight wings stall first? Straight wings typically stall first at the wing root, which is the part of the wing closest to the fuselage. This is because the wing root section usually reaches a higher angle of attack before the wingtips during a stall.

Where does a wing stall first? In many cases, a wing stalls first at the wing root, near the fuselage. However, the exact stall characteristics can vary depending on the wing’s design and aerodynamic properties.

What wing shape has the least drag? Wing shapes with lower drag typically have a high aspect ratio and efficient airfoil profiles. Tapered wings with a smooth, laminar flow airfoil design often have less drag than wings with abrupt changes in shape or inefficient airfoils.

What is the strongest wing structure? The strongest wing structure depends on the aircraft’s design and materials used. Generally, wings with a well-designed combination of internal spars, ribs, and external skin are strong and lightweight.