EAA Chapter 1710 recently welcomed Dave Scott of RC Flight School for a presentation on radio-controlled aircraft and the art of learning to fly.
Scott shared his journey into aviation, which began as a young boy with a dream of becoming an aerobatic pilot. Because he was too young to fly a full-scale airplane, he discovered radio-controlled aircraft as a way to pursue his passion for aviation.
What started as a childhood interest eventually became a lifelong career.
Scott became an RC club instructor and, in 1990, began his own RC flight instruction business on his family’s property, which features a private RC flying field. For more than three decades,
Scott has welcomed students from around the world to learn how to safely and confidently fly RC aircraft.
RC Flight School is located southwest of Shawano.
With 38 years of experience teaching RC flying, Scott has taught about 3,000 students with a wide range of experience levels. About 20% of his students are beginners, while the remaining 80% are experienced RC pilots looking to improve their aerobatic skills.
His students have included everyone from people flying an RC aircraft for the very first time to retired airline pilots looking to sharpen their skills and explore the world of RC aerobatics.
Scott’s passion for aviation extends well beyond RC aircraft. He ultimately achieved his childhood dream of becoming a full-scale aerobatic pilot.
For about 15 years, he performed professional aerobatics in his Pitts aircraft, combining his love of aviation with the precision and skill required for competitive and professional aerobatic flying.
During his presentation to EAA Chapter 1710, Scott demonstrated how RC aircraft can provide an accessible introduction to aviation while also serving as a sophisticated discipline for experienced pilots. His story showed how a childhood passion can grow into both a career and a lifelong involvement in aviation.
“It’s amazing to see how a childhood interest in RC airplanes can eventually lead someone to professional aerobatics,” said Mathieu Labs, president of EAA Chapter 1710. “Dave’s experience shows that there are many different paths into aviation, and RC flying can be an incredible way to develop skills, confidence and a passion for flight.”
EAA Chapter 1710, based in Clintonville, continues to grow as a hub for aviation enthusiasts, offering hands-on building projects, educational programs and community events that inspire the next generation of aviators. They hold monthly gatherings on the third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m.
For additional information about EAA Chapter 1710 activities and upcoming events, contact the chapter directly or follow the chapter’s Facebook page.
