I started model flying with a COX Control Line PT-19 plastic model while my dad flew a bang-bang R/C plane called a Mambo.
Years went by, and I acquired lots of FAA licenses for airplanes, helicopter, and CFI [certified flight instructor.] My pre-teen son took an interest in R/C flying, so after years away from the sport, I purchased everything to re-join.
I joined AMA for the insurance and worked with a model shop to build a Eagle 2 correctly and found a flying field.
For the first flight, I showed up at the field and was immediately 'challenged' by a member. He questioned the build, balance, and safety of my build and wasn't sure I would be allowed to fly there. Oops, bad PR event. Now the fun part begins!
A club member walked by and complemented my plane, said he had built one and was I going to fly it today? Stewing from my first contact my reply was, 'If you let me!' He smiled, introduced himself as a club instructor, and asked if I would like to have him help me and we would have my plane in the air ASAP!
He inspected the plane, laid out a first & second flight plan, and we flew. On the third flight, I did the takeoff and flight pattern and he was trying to coach me and I was correcting before he got the words out. I had mentioned I was a 'teacher' but had not expanded. He pursued the 'teacher' position and his jaw went slack when I told him "for my day job, I teach and fly 747's for XXX airlines!" "Why didn't you SAY SOMETHING - HEY GUYS this guy is a 747 pilot and I'm telling him about ailerons!!"
I told him R/C is totally different and I was not going to present myself as an 'expert' in R/C. Turns out a previous guest was also an airline pilot with a beautiful P-51 R/C that the whole club was salivating over. He refused any help and did a 10-15 second full power 're-kit' and quietly left with a hefty bag full of pieces.
I now have a drone that I enjoy as a photo platform and still hold my AMA benefits, especially for the peace of mind insurance coverage.
I still smile about the first contact at the flying field and how one person can make a difference, both bad or ambassador for fun!
