Building a Huge A-10 from Foam

You know what's cool? Building an 8ft wingspan RC jet. You know what's cooler? Designing it around an airsoft cannon. 

We've always loved giant builds here at Flite Test. You only have to visit one of our Flite Fest eventsto see tens of them airborne at any one time. There's something special about being able to make a great big flying machine from everyday common materials like foam board. As for one of our recent projects, you're in for a treat. 

Video

If you haven't seen it already, check out the video of this 8-foot wingspan monster taking to the air for the first time. The excitement in the air was palpable. 

Giant Plane Build Tips

1. Plan, plan, plan

When it comes down to building your own humongous DIY airplane project, you're really going to want to think things through. Making an aircraft this large will take more time than usual and also more space. Think about where you're going to build it, where you're going to store it and how it's all going to come together. Doing this before you start will save you some headaches later!

2. Double up foam

Foam board is a great material, but at just 5mm thick, sometimes you'll need to laminate two pieces together to create a thicker, stronger component. This is especially true when it comes to dealing with high-stress areas such as with giant power pods and fuselage sides where the wing connects. 

3. Use wood

Used on aircraft since the very beginning, wood is a superb choice of material for economically strengthening parts of giant DIY airplanes. It can be used for spars, supports and wing braces. You can also use it to fix landing gear to. Plywood is great as it comes in sheet form in many different thicknesses.

4. Make detachable wings

One thing you've absolutely got to consider with a giant build is storage and transport. Chances are, if you've embarked on a mission to invest your time and resources into a project, you'll want to ensure it lasts a long time. Making detachable wings will help you keep the plane out of the way - reducing hanger rash - whilst allowing you to drive the aircraft to any flying field.

Here are some more tips in a dedicated video from Josh and David from way back in 2014.

Ground Vehicle 

If the episode on the A-10 wasn't enough for you, don't worry, we have big, big plans for a future video.

Over the last week, the guys at Flite Test HQ have been assembling an enormous foam tank to go head to head with the might of the A-10.

Equipped with an airsoft cannon, the A-10 will be letting the 'brrrrt' rip as it aims for the tank. It will be flown in FPV as it hurtles towards the target. We can't wait and we hope you can't either. In the meantime, here's Jeremy for scale.  

This is going to be epic!

stay tuned!

Article by James Whomsley

Editor of FliteTest.com

Contact: [email protected]

YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/projectairaviation