ParkJets 12/30/12 ParkJets 12/30/12

2012 - A YEAR IN REVIEW

It was a busy year for Parkjets in 2012 so we thought it would be a good idea to put everything in a nice little capsule so our visitors can see what happened over the last 12 months and hopefully look forward to the next 12 months! Now, this is the one time of the year we want your input, so be sure to add your comments, we want to hear from you - what you want to see in Parkjets in 2013 (more after the break).

More Plans - The biggest improvement to Parkjets.com over the last year has certainly been in the number of plans we have added to the Free Plans page. In fact, when 2011 ended, we were right at 98 plans available for download. And that's nothing to shake a stick at either. But we set out to try to add 2 plans a month for the next 12 months and we came pretty darn close. In fact, with the latest additions, we just racked up the total to 118 plans, a full increase of 20 plans for you to enjoy and download. In case you missed it, here is the quick summary:

Honestly, we thought we had added in way more plans, but adding in 20 new plans isn't too bad either. It just takes time to get all these plans dialed up and posted. But we did fall short of our goal of 24 for 2012.

Interviews - We also undertook a new project to start interviewing designers and RC companies out there to see if we can squeeze out a little more information and insight from them on their designs and the way they have set up their business. With RC being a great part time hobby/job, there are lots of small garage companies and we are reaching out to more folks right now for more interviews. Want an overview of the interviews we conducted in 2012, here you go:

2012 Interviews

Sponsorship - In 2012 we had a goal of gaining at least one prime sponsor for the website and 6mmFlyRC came through and delivered. We discussed it in our interview with 6mmFlyRC, but needless to say, their sponsorship allows us to keep the lights on and lets us focus adding great content to the site without worrying about bandwidth or internet hosting charges. With all the downloading that takes place on Parkjets on a daily basis, sometimes it can get expensive. Do yourself a favor and visit them and pick up a laser cut kit or motor, every customer matters.

Traffic - Our traffic has been increasing steadily since the start of 2012. In fact, in 2012 we had 2.5 million page views from 305,000 unique visitors from all around the world. Our top referrers (where visitors come from) include hobby forums like RC Groups, but also include forums from Thailand, Russia, Italy, France, Germany, and South America. We also have many folks linking to us in social networks like Facebook and Twitter. And we have seen our newsletter subscriber list increase nearly 20% over 2011.

Endorsements - This year we also took a small step and endorsed the RC Powers E-Guide for folks wanting to know about electric flight and park flyers in general. It's a great course for beginners and even those that have some flight time under their belt. If you are new to the hobby or maybe you are just looking to get a complete picture of e-flight and the parkjet revolution, we highly recommend the guide. It's money well spent. But we are in the middle of doing a full review for you, so if you are on the fence, just hold on, we'll give you the complete run down in a few weeks.

2013 Goals - So this brings us all to our goals for 2013. What do we want to do on Parkjets to help become the #1 place on the internet for plans and advice for parkjets and park flyers? Well, we are not sure just yet but here is what we do know.

We want to add more plans. Our goal for 2013 is to add an additional 36 plans over 12 months. That means we will be searching high and low for those plans that have everything you need to build them including photos and videos, complete plans and specifications. We will continue to reach out to do more interviews with those in the RC community that are making things happen.
We want to become a better resource for visitors and engage people more. We just don't know what the best way to do it might be. Is that a forum? Is that a social media push? Do we work to extend ourselves with more foreign language resources? It's hard to say.
We want to make our newsletter a better resource for our subscribers and are working hard on doing that as well. But we are satisfied with our current offering.

That pretty much wraps up the year for Parkjets. We would love to hear from you in the comments section about what you liked best, what you want to see, and what you don't want to see in 2013 for Parkjets. All constructive criticism is appreciated!

Lastly we want to thank everyone for a tremendous year and for keeping Parkjets in your internet browser! Blue skies everyone!

ParkJets 12/30/12 ParkJets 12/30/12

TOP 10 PLANS - DECEMBER

Every month, we have been posting the Top 10 list of the most popular plans on Parkjets. So now its time for December 2012! So how do we determine the most popular downloads? Simple, we analyze the intenet traffic and rank the plans based on popular plans for the month.

So let's not waste any time, after all, its nearly 2013. Here we go:

10. F-35 by RC Cal - The F-35 has been on and off the list, depending on the month and this month it creeps on the list at number 10. As a park flyer, the F-35 is excellent. You won't find a better flyer. The thust vectoring tabs on the control surfaces give it incredible performace and the large wings give it great stability. Pair it with a good motor and you have an excellent recipe for a great parkjet.

F-35 by RC Cal

9. SU-37 by Jamie Rothwell - The SU-37 is flat out one of the best looking RC airplanes out there. And Jamie Rothwell's design incorporates some unique features. First, his designs really try to marry the simple build techniques with the more time consuming box frame techniques pioneered by Steve Shumate. WIth Jamie's score and fold method, the builder has a simple build, with the full fuse look of a more time consuming build. Win win.

8. Eurofigher by Jamie Rothwell - The Eurofigher incorporates the same score and fold method as the SU-37. Its a great platform overall, with broad delta wings large control surfaces, the Eurofighter is a winner for any builder.

Eurofighter by Jamie Rothwell

7. F/A-241 Shrike by Sean Correia - This is a very unique looking platform but with its curved leading edges and canards, the F/A-241 is an easy flyer and a park flyer that you won't see anywhere else.

6. F-14 by MDC - The F-14 might be retired from service, but the F-14 designed by MDC is a main stay on the Top 10 list. And its no wonder, it has swing wings, profile design, and scale all to offer the builder. It contains a lot of pieces, but the end result is stunning.

F-14 by MDC

5. SU-31 by Tomas Hellberg - The SU-31 isn't even a real jet, but a throwback to piston driven aircraft. And this design is as simple as it gets. The great thing, depending on the set up, the SU-31 can be a 3D plane, park flyer or just a nice cruiser around the flying field. And with it being designed by Tomas Hellberg, you know its done right.

4. T-50 PAK-FA by Denis CyberD - The T-50 represents the newest 5th generation fighter from the Russians. Like most Russian jets, the lines are beautiful, the paint schemes are unique and the performace is excellent. The T-50 here is a simple profile design with some scale details built in.

T-50 PAK-FA

3. F-15 by Jamie Rothwell - With three plans in the Top 10, Jamie Rothwell's designs are becoming very popular. Like the Eurofigher and SU-37, the score and fold method is utilzed and the result is excellent. The Eagle has been a main stay in the U.S. Air Force for decades and this one should be added to your fleet.

2. Hydro - The Hydro is one of those designs that keeps moving up and down the Top 10 list every month. The Hydro doubles as a plane and a park flyer all in one. The video is practically viral at this point, and the downloads of the plans keep coming.

1. F-22 by Steve Shumate - The F-22 has been #1 every month we have been keeping track, and for good reason. The F-22 features some of the most scale lines of any foam RC airplane out there. With the ability to add a clear canopy from 6mmFlyRC, decals by download, and plenty of paint possibilities, the F-22 is by far the most popular plan on Parkjets. You want a scale foam airplane? The F-22 is a good place to begin and end.

F-22 by Steve ShumateThat's it folks, the Top 10 list for December 2012. If you are a new builder out there, take a look at the Top 10 lists, they are a great place to start to decide what RC airplane plan you want to try first. But take your time, Parkjets.com has over 115 different plans to explore.

ParkJets 12/30/12 ParkJets 12/30/12

TWO NEW PLANS - HUSTLER & FIREFLY

Parkjets just added two new plans to round out 2012! We added in the Firefly and the B-58 Hustler. Both plans are designed by SGTalon but that is where the similarity ends. First, the Firefly from the popular Sci-Fi western by the same name. His simple profile design of the "Serenity" is like nothing you have seen before. It doesn't even look like an airplane, or rocket, or shuttle. It is a totally unique design that gets around the park just fine. Even though its not exactly an aerobatic champion, it is still a capable flyer.

Next, we added an all time personal favorite, the B-58 Hustler. As you might know, the real B-58 was the first super sonic bomber and was designed as a high altitude bomber that could penetrate enemy airspace and deliver a payload. The design utilized large delta wings and some serious engines. SGTalon's version is true to the look but a lot easier to build. The simple profile design lends itself to quick build times and a wide envelope for electronic gear. If you are a big fan of the "Hustler," give this design a good look and download. After all, like all RC downloads on Parkjets, this one is totally free.

ParkJets 12/23/12 ParkJets 12/23/12

NEW PLAN - F-95 MORNINGSTAR

The designer of the MIG-31 Firefox just sent us over his plans for the F-95 Morningstar. For those of you thinking, "huh, never heard of it," the Morningstar was a ship from the very popular game, "Wing Commander.

The Morningstar features large canards, canted vertical stabs and excellent performance. Using pretty standard power gear, the Morningstar looks to be a capable flyer with plenty of get up and go. And with a simple profile design, it can't take too long to piece together. The designer even took the time to put together a construction manual that is available in the download as well.

Want an RC plane that no one else will have? Give the Morningstar a shot. You can't go wrong.

ParkJets 12/15/12 ParkJets 12/15/12

NEW PLAN - T-50 PAK-FA

T-50 PAK-FA Parkjet

Honestly, this plan was actually submitted almost 11 months ago and got lost in the Parkjet inbox. But when we were going through the mail, we noticed an attachment and did the "facepalm." But now the T-50 PAK-FA is all posted in our Free Plans page.

T-50 PAK-FA Parkjet

The designer tells us this is his "winter style" T-50 and based on the excellent photos, he faithfully recreated the actual paint of the real deal.

The T-50, like a lot of profile style parkjets, features a simple design and can operate on tailerons only, although rudders and ailerons could be thrown on there pretty easily. The designer also included two different sizes of the park flyer in his files, so we zipped them up together. So if you download it, you get a two for one.

The T-50 is Russia's 5th generation fighter that looks a lot like the American F-22 but with some noticable differences. So if you want something a little different than all those Raptors flying around at your flying field, give the T-50 PAK-FA a shot. It performs very well and based on the large wing span and generous control surfaces, it will provide an excellent platform to throw a lot of different motors and battery combos, ones you might just have lying around. What do you have to lose? The T-50 PAK-FA looks awesome!

ParkJets 12/14/12 ParkJets 12/14/12

INTERVIEW ROUNDUP

One of the more popular resources on Parkjets is the various interviews we have conducted designer and companies in the RC Community. A lot of people enjoy reading the interviews for idea and inspiration for their next build. We thought it might be a good idea to do an “interview roundup” and pull out some of the best tidbits from each interview, link them all and create an easy resource for you to go to time and time again. And since we are reaching out to designers and members of the RC Community all the time, this is one resource that will continue to grow, just like the number of free downloads in our catalog.

If you have never taken a few minutes and actually read through these interviews, there is almost something for everyone, so get a cup of coffee or something and read over a few.

One of the more popular resources on Parkjets is the various interviews we have conducted with designers and companies in the RC Community. A lot of people enjoy reading the interviews for ideas and inspiration for their next build. We thought it might be a good idea to do an “interview roundup” and pull out some of the best tidbits from each interview, link them all, and create an easy resource for you to go to time and time again. And since we are reaching out to designers and members of the RC Community all the time, this is one resource that will continue to grow, just like the number of free downloads in our catalog.

If you have never taken a few minutes and actually read through these interviews, there is almost something for everyone, so get a cup of coffee or something and read over a few.

Interview: Sabastian Gulde, Designer of the EADS Barracuda | Advise on achieving beveled cuts on EPP foam: “I did build a hot wire cutter, however I noticed later that a utility knife and sanding paper works just as well if you take your time and mark the cutting line before. It is best to first cut out the part straight, and in a second step do the beveled cut.”

Interview: 6mmFlyRC – Company and Sponsor of Parkjets.com | On lessons learned running your own RC business: “This won't be that popular to say but honestly the number one lesson we learned is that just because you have some people asking for a product, it doesn't mean it will sell. In some ways, it’s totally unpredictable.”

Interview: Jamie Rothwell, Designer of the Alpha Jet and more | On the Alpha Jets incredible high alpha capability: “The incredible high alpha is achieved because the leading edge of the top wing is slightly in front of the leading edge of the bottom wing. So when the plane is in high alpha, the top wing is scooping the air over the bottom wing and the propeller is also pulling air through the air intakes, which are in the middle of both wings.”

Interview: Nico Hobbies – Company and designer | Advise on purchasing an expensive brand name motor over cheaper models: “Personally, I see no reason why someone would need to purchase a Hacker or E-Flite brand motor just for better reliability, as I've had almost no issues with the cheaper brands.”

Interview: Steve Shumate – Designer | Advise to hobbyists: “The only thing I'd add is to encourage guys who are used to flying RTFs to try building a foam model from scratch or from a kit. The sense of satisfaction you'll get from the end result will probably give you a whole new appreciation for this great hobby.”

ParkJets 12/9/12 ParkJets 12/9/12

CHRISTMAS PROJECT - FLYING SANTA AND SLEIGH

When October rolled around, we put up a great project (suggested by a reader) and he sent over another project that is appropriate for Christmas. Rather than post in our regular free RC plans page, we like the idea of simply putting them right here in our blog.

This particular build is pretty limited to the pictures in the build thread and doesn't actually have a maiden flight! So maybe you could classify this build as purely experimental. If you do end up building this one, be sure to send over some finished pictures and results. We know the designer would love it and we would love to post the results.

Here is a video of a simplier build (two deer) that inspired the design.

And a still photo of the simplier build.

Here is the RC Groups build thread to the multi-deer plans.

Finally, here is a .zip file of the Santa Parkjet plans ready for you to download. Enjoy!

ParkJets 12/9/12 ParkJets 12/9/12

TOP 10 PLANS - NOVEMBER

Like every month, when the first of the month rolls around, we take a look at the most popular plans that visitors to parkjets have looked at and downloaded. It gives news visitors a good idea about what others are doing and a good place to start exploring. Without wasting too much time, let's see where the most popular free RC airplane plans reside on parkjets for the month of November.

10. F-35 by RC Cal: The F-35 by RC Cal has a lot to like if you are just getting into building your own RC airplanes but also has a lot to like if you are a seasoned builder and pilot. First off, the design is simple and easy to cut out and assemble. Second, 6mmFlyRC offers a pre-cut kit if you want to skip the whole tracing and cutting phase. Third, the F-35 offers a great mix of stability and jet like performance due to its large wing area. If you want an easy build that will perform great, give the F-35 a shot.

9. SU-37 by Steve Shumate: They call it "The Terminator" for a reason. This model is a beast. With twin engines, thrust vectoring, and really great scale features, you can't go wrong. This is not a real complicated build, but it does contain a lot of pieces in the plans, so have your exacto knife ready (or pick up a kit from 6mmFlyRC). When its all said and done, the SU-37 is one of the most impressive parkjet designs out there, on this site or any others.

8. F/A 241 by Sean Correia: The fictional F/A-241 is a the newest addition to Parkjets but proved to be a popular download in November. Based loosely on the Macross epic, the F/A-241 is a unique and nimble flyer. Want something different at the flying field? Go with the Shirke, no one else will have it.

7. SU-37 by Jamie Rothwell: The SU-37 by Jamie Rothwell is the second SU-37 on the list this month but there is a good reason why; the SU-37 is an excellent platform for parkjets! This design is a little simplier than Steve Shumate's version, but performs well and goes together quickly.

6. SU-31 by Tomas Hellberg: Maybe you are wanting a little profile plane with a prop on the front. Okay, check out the SU-31 by Tomas Hellberg. You can't go wrong. A simple scale design and large control surfaces mean you will have no problem building and flying this park flyer.

5. Eurofighter by Jamie Rothwell: The Eurofighter, along with the F-35, F-22, and SU-37 is just one heck of a platform to start with in terms of designing a park flyer. So you know with a design from Jamie Rothwell, the Eurofighter will not dissapoint.

4. F-14 by MDC: This design is well proven as hundreds of folks have documented their builds. And why not, the F-14 by MDC has great scale lines but does a nice job of balancing scale with ease of construction. And with working swing wings, this design will keep you the talk of the flying field.

3. Hydro: This design continues to be popular. The Hydro combines the concept of a racing boat and a small parkjet into one. Imagine taking out your RC toy and putting on the duck pond at your local park and puttering around. Suddenly you slam on the trottle and your boat takes off and does a little circle around and lands again safely on the water. That's what you get with the Hydro.

2. F-15 by Jamie Rothwell: The F-15 by Jamie Rothwell has been challenging the top spot since it arrived on Parkjets a few months ago and November was no different. Like the other designs by Jamie Rothwell, the F-15 balances ease of construction with scale lines into an excellent weekend project.

1. F-22 by Steve Shumate: The F-22 by Steve Shumate remains the undisputed King of Parkjets. This design one of the toughest builds you will have but the results are like no other. If you want to skip cutting out all the plans, go with a kit, or brave the whole process solo. Once you are finished, you will have a parkjet that will absolutely wow the crowd.

That's it folks, another month, another Top 10 list and another bookmark for downloading some of the best parkjet designs on the internet.

ParkJets 11/24/12 ParkJets 11/24/12

AMAZING HELLBERG F-18

Our sponsor, 6mmFlyRC, sent us these amazing pictures of one of their customer's modification to their kit, which is based on the Tomas Hellberg F-18E Super Hornet. Of course you can download the plans here for free, but this customer chose to use his time doing some customization rather than cutting foam. I think we can all appreciate his efforts.

The F-18E by Tomas Hellberg is a very popular download, although it doesn't ususally make the Top 10 every month, it's always lurking just behind the leaders. The F-18 just doesn't look good, it flies great, is very easy to assemble and from the looks of these modifications, a great platform to let your imagination run wild.

The F-18 features thrust vectoring tabs and a profile design. The large wings and strake give it great lift, and a huge platform to put just about any motor on it you want. So go for it. In the mean time, get inspired! Check out the pictures!

F-18 Parkjet

F-18E Park Flyer

F-18 Plane Plans

ParkJets 11/18/12 ParkJets 11/18/12

NEW PLAN - F/A-241 SHRIKE

We just added in a new plan inspired by a personal favorate, Macross! The F/A-241 Shrike is a unique looking design that certainly is true to the popular series.

The free download features a simple to build parkjets that requires only 3 channels and pretty standard power equipment. The result is a stable but nimble flyer that you can put together in short order and have something no one else will see.

We just added in a new plan inspired by a personal favorate, Macross! The F/A-241 Shrike is a unique looking design that certainly is true to the popular series.

The design came from a new designer, Sean Correia, who sent us these plans earlier this month. We look forward to more designs and more contributions in the future! Be sure so check out the design and get to downloading.

ParkJets 10/31/12 ParkJets 10/31/12

TOP 10 PLANS - OCTOBER

With October closing out with some massive storms and the winter build season upon us, it's time again to check out what RC Hobbyists from all across the globe are downloading and building. This month's top 10 list of the most downloaded free RC airplane plans features a lot of familiar faces. Let's get started.

10. The F4F Wildcat by Jamie Rothwell. The Wildcat, since we posted it on Parkjets, has become one of the most popular downloads on the site. And we would like to note that it's not really a parkjet at all, but rather a really great simple design of a great war bird from decades ago. Still, the Wildcat is an excellent build and excellent design that you will find easy to fly and easy to assemble.

9. The F-14 by MDC. The F-14 design has been popular on Parkjets from the beginning. The Steve Shumate designed plane really broke the ground and when the F-14 was retired from service, it really boosted downloads. The MDC F-14, with its simpler profile build design, along with keeping the ability to swing the wings keeps it a popular download on parkjets. It will challenge you with cutting out all the depron pieces, and it will challenge you RC building skills, but it will be well worth it. Give it a shot.

8. The Hydro. The Hydro offers a lot of fun for folks looking to venture into boats but still want to incorporate flight into their weekend hobby activities. The Hydro combines the look and feel of a racing boat with the ability to lift off the water and fly around. It remains a popular download and is downloaded from all across the globe.

7. The SU-37 by Steve Shumate. Did you see our interview with Mr. Shumate? That's a shameless plug. But if you pull out the SU-37 from your car or truck at the flying field, you won't feel any shame. Just a steady gathering of gawkers, looking at the best example of simple design and complicated finishing touches like dual thrust vectoring. Throw on a custom formed canopy from 6mmFlyRC and you will have one sweet looking build. And it will fly great too. The SU-37 is a very stable RC airplane.

6. F-35 by RC Cal. We have said this many times, but the F-35 is one of the best design platforms for a typical RC parkjet. The large delta wings, the large control surfaces on the tail make it very easy to throw around. So we have the F-35 by RC Cal at the #6 spot. Simple design, very easy to put together, very easy to fly. What more do you want in an parkjet?

5. SU-31 by Tomas Hellberg. The SU-31 is an excellent, elligant, and easy to build design, and you would expect nothing less from the designer, Tomas Hellberg. The SU-31 is a great park flyer or 3D flyer and with a few modifications, you can strap just about any motor you have laying around on the front of it.

4. SU-37 by Jamie Rothwell. The SU-37 by Jamie Rothwell is a hybrid (in terms of ease of construction and scaleness) between the more complicated builds like the Steve Shumate SU-37 and the Tomas Hellberg SU-37. The Rothwell design incorporates a unique score and fold method to give the full fuse look without all the hastle. And the SU-37 is an excellent platform for park flying, so this design is a great option for those wanting a full fuse look, but don't want to spend a lot of time building.

3. F-15 by Jamie Rothwell. The F-15 is pretty similar to the SU-37, except that it is of course an American fighter. But the same easy construction techniques and same great scale looks apply to the F-15. The F-15 is a great performing parkjet and is a stable flyer.

2. Eurofighter by Jamie Rothwell. The Eurofighter by Jamie Rothwell is a great addition to any fleet. The general platform of the Eurofighter makes it a great parkflyer, large wings, big vertical stabilizer and good wing loading make it a perfect way to get your power gear up in the air. Give the Eurofighter a try.

1. F-22 by Steve Shumate. The undisputed king of Parkjets, the F-22 by Steve Shumate. The plans are some of the more complicated to build, but once you finish it off, you will have a tremendously scale RC park flyer. The F-22 features thrust vectoring and excellent scale lines. You won't believe you can achieve a look with just depron foam, time and effort. But you can. The F-22 stays on top another month!

Next month we will see how things shake out. We added four new plans to the Free Plans catalog and plan on adding about four more free RC airplane plans in November. That will bring our total close to 120 totally free plane plans! Thank you to everyone for your continued support!

ParkJets 10/28/12 ParkJets 10/28/12

NEW PLAN - STARFIGHTER

Maybe all that news coverage about the amazing space jump the last few weeks has inspired our Free Plans Catalog, or maybe we just like these fantisy type park flyers? Who knows. Either way, the SGTalon designed Starfighter from the TV Series "Buck Rogers" is a winner. The design is very simple, the construction is pretty straight forward, but the look is unique. What more do you need?

Maybe all that news coverage about the amazing space jump the last few weeks has inspired our Free Plans Catalog, or maybe we just like these fantasy type park flyers? Who knows. Either way, the SGTalon designed Starfighter from the TV Series "Buck Rogers" is a winner. The design is very simple, the construction is pretty straight forward, but the look is unique. What more do you need?

Head on over to the Free Plans Catalog and scoop up this free RC plane plan. You can't go wrong. After all, its free as always. At last count, we are over 110 free plans on Parkjets.com. We have a bunch in line to be posted, but we are always on the look out for more. So if you have some, drop us a line and we will try to get it posted.

This is also a good time to remind everyone that the plans we post on Parkjets are not our own, but rather from different designers all across the world. Helping them out with a small donation is always appreciated and helps keep the plans flowing.

ParkJets 10/16/12 ParkJets 10/16/12

TWO NEW PLANS - CARGO & CYLON

Twin Cargo We just crossed the 110 threshold and now we are up to 112 RC plans on Parkjets for free download. Pretty amazing! And we have about 6-8 we are working on getting posted. Before you know it, we will be at 125 plans and then 200! Whew.

But let's talk about what we just posted. First we uploaded another installement of a Jamie Rothwell special: The Twin Cargo. A bit non-traditional, the Cargo Twin is a twin engine cargo plane, with the props on the front! Very odd indeed. But the Cargo Twin is a nice addition to the catalog. The beast can hover, carry a load and bring you a smile after every flight. Check it out.

Cylon Raider

Secondly, we added to the growing portfolio of SG Talon. His other designs are great and the Cylon Raider rounds out his offerings nicely. The Cylon Raider performs very well, floats easy but can rocket with the best of them. Best of all, he offers a CNC cut kit and sweet decals to make it look right. So check it out, and be sure to visit his website and purchase a kit if you are so inclined.

ParkJets 10/6/12 ParkJets 10/6/12

NEW PLAN - SU-37 FLANKER

October is here and so it's time for some new plans for the FREE PLANS catalog. And right on time Jamie Rothwell, the designer of the Alpha Jet, F-15 and others sent us his version of one the best looking designs in aviation history, the SU-37 Flanker. So, we got it up and posted. Time to check out the specifics:

These plans are really like a two for one. You see, he included in the file a twin engine version as well as a single engine variation. Want insane power? Go twin. Simplier build with a single engine, you can't go wrong. The entire plane is built out of two sheets of 6mm Depron foam and does require some carbon fiber rods for strength. Be sure to make sure you have plenty of it. And if you are familar with Jamie Rothwell's park flyer designs, you will be sure to notice the unique score and fold method he uses to achieve scale looks without the hastle of sanding or building up a box frame.

You will also notice that the specfications vary greatly, that's because of the twin and single engine options. If you have questions, we recommend getting in touch with the designer on his facebook page. Easy enough, now go and DOWNLOAD the plans and get to building.

ParkJets 10/1/12 ParkJets 10/1/12

TOP 10 PLANS - SEPTEMBER

With summer quickly coming to a close and the winter build projects beginning to take shape, it's that time of the month to look back and see what plans have been the most popular in the month of September. For the new builder out there, sometimes it can help to see what other builders are tackling to help narrow down the pool of over 100 free plans on parkjets.com Let's get to it!

10. Alpha Jet by Jamie Rothwell - The Alpha Jet has been a popular plan since the day we posted it. It is a design like no other, totally unique and totally not a real life airplane. But that is why it is so popular. The Alpha Jet is simple to build and is an excellent performer at the flying field (last month rank: 7).

Alpha Jet

9. SU-37 by Steve Shumate - The SU-37 is probably the best example of a Steve Shumate designed parkjet. Beautiful lines, excellent scale and with something extra thrown in like twin thrust vectoring makes the SU-37 a beast at the flying field. Additionally, with support and extras from the folks at 6mmFlyRC, you can really dress it up right with a clear canopy or just opt for the laser cut kit (last month rank: 9).

8. F-14 by MDC - A perfect blend of scale, movable wings and all, and simple construction techniques make the F-14 a top plan every month. If you want a build that will challenge you but cause a stir at the flying field, build it. Simple as that (last month rank: 8).

F-14 by MDC

7. Eurofighter by Jamie Rothwell - A newcomer to the top 10 list, the Eurofighter by Jamie Rothwell is an excellently designed EDF model of a very popular design platform. The Eurofighter offers a broad wing span and plenty of wing loading, so you can put just about any combo of power gear inside. The Jamie Rothwell design features some thrust vectoring tabs that provide plenty of aerobatics (last month rank: N/A).

6. Hydro - The Hydro is probably one of the most popular designs in Parkjets.com history. The boat and flying capability is strangely alluring, leading to plenty of downloads. Want a unique project, give the Hydro a good look (last month rank: 3).

5. SU-31 by Tomas Hellberg - The SU-31 is a new comer to Parkjets.com and isn't even a "jet" in the traditional sense. But when Tomas Hellberg designs something, we instantly knew it would be popular. A simple profile tractor driven prop fighter. Simple graphics like a cockpit art and you have yourself a fast weekend project that flies great and looks great (last month rank: N/A).

SU-31

4. F-35 by RC Cal - The F-35 remains popular. Simple profile design, scale looks in the air, and excellent performance. Give yourself a few hours on a Saturday and you can knock it out (last month rank: 4).

3. F4F Wildcat by Jamie Rothwell - The Wildcat is a pretty new design to Parkjets.com and is one of the few non jets we have in the catalog. But Jamie Rothwell's design is simple and scale, using a score and fold method, he faithfully recreates many of the features of this WWII warbird (last month rank: 6).

F4F Wildcat

2. F-15 by Jamie Rothwell - The F-15 debuted a few months ago and almost knocked off the long standing king of parkjets. This month it was close again and for good reason. The F-15 features a simple scale design that is a nice blend of scale (full fuse) and simple profile builds. It all leads to a great looking model with excellent flight characteristics (last month rank: 2)

1. F-22 by Steve Shumate - The undisputed king of Parkjets.com comes through again. The F-22 is by far one of the best looking models out of foam out there. A little heat gun and some serious build skill is required, but if you want a 3 month project for the cold winter, the F-22 should be at the top of your list. And with great accessories like clear canopies and decals from 6mmFlyRC, you have plenty of options to spice up your F-22 (last month rank: 1).

F-22 by Steve Shumate

ParkJets 9/10/12 ParkJets 9/10/12

NEW PLAN - EUROFIGHTER EDF

Just as the weekend was wrapping up, the designer of the Alpha Jet, F4F Wildcat and the F-15 shot us a quick E-mail with some new plans for the catalog. Now, we just added the great looking (and performing) Eurofighter EDF to the free plans catalog.

Mr. Rothwell designed this one around a 70mm EDF set up, but the design is large enough to accomadate a 90mm fan, so you have plenty of options. And like you might expect, the design has a few twists that make it totally unique, starting with the thrust vectoring tabs right in the back. Now, we are just guessing here, for the pilot that prefers a prop pusher set up, looks like with a little fire wall work, a prop would fit on this design as well.

The whole design takes two sheets of depron foam (6mm) and can be controlled with only two servos. Give this one a shot, the Eurofighter is an excellent park flyer platform and can take just about anything you can throw at it. You really can't go wrong.

ParkJets 9/8/12 ParkJets 9/8/12

NEW PLAN - SUKHOI SU-31

After taking note that something like 4 of our top 10 plans for the month of August were really not "jets" but rather warbirds, the Hydro, and some 3D aircraft, we decided to upload a great design from a familar name, Tomas Hellberg. He designs some of the most popular parkjets on the site, including the F-22, Eurofighter and the F-18E. So we have added to his hanger here on Parkjets for you to enjoy.

So here is the SU-31! The entire design is pretty simple, but the design contains tabbed construction that makes putting these together so much easier. If you are looking for an easy to build 3D type aircraft, the SU-31 might just fit the bill.

Like always, we encourage you to donate to Tomas so he can keep up the designs and so you can say thank you for all his work. Visit his website for more information!

ParkJets 9/1/12 ParkJets 9/1/12

TOP 10 PLANS - AUGUST

Another month, another Top 10 list. This month we have quite a few changes from July and a new comer almost dethroned the most popular Steve Shumate plan on the site. With three plans in August that were not on the list in July, August shaped up nicely. Let's not waste time, or words and get to the most popular RC airplane plans on the site.

10. F-22 by Tomas Hellberg: The F-22 is a great design and always very popular. It ducks in and out of the top 10 list but if you haven't built it yet, you should. The documentation and plans are top notch, with an assembly manual by 6mmFlyRC to go along with it. Some builders have even strapped on an EDF fan in place of the mid-mounted prop. Give it a shot. (July Rank: NR)

Tomas Hellberg F-22

9. SU-37 by Steve Shumate: The SU-37 is an awesome parkjet. Twin thrust vectoring and scale dimensions are just part of the package. We talked a little bit about it in out Steve Shumate interview, and the plans and build manual are excellent. There is no shortage of video and pictures too. Need a winter project? The depron SU-37 should be at the top of your list. (July Rank: NR)

Steve Shumate SU-37

8. F-14 by MDC: Want a simple RC build with swing wings? The F-14 designed by MDC is a great option. Featuring swing wings and a semi-profile design, the all depron build is something that every hobbyist should give a try. The plans are excellent and well traveled, so you know they are ready for you to have a smooth build. (July Rank: #4)

7. Alpha Jet by Jamie Rothwell: The Alpha Jet is very unique. You want something at the field that doesn't look like or perform like any other RC model out there? Give the Alpha Jet a shot. Dual wings, no carbon and a few servos and you have yourself one great performing parkflyer. (July Rank: #7)

6. F4F Wildcat by Jamie Rothwell: The Wildcat is a little different kind of plane. We actually debated putting it up. Because its not a jet. But it was a jet for its day. The Wildcat by Jamie Rothwell is an excellent, simple design that allows for simple construction with good scale looks. The F4F lets you go back in time a little and have a classic warbird in your fleet. (July Rank: NR)

Jamie Rothwell F4F Wildcat

5. Ultimate: The Ultimate is another plane that isn't exactly a jet either, but it remains popular. The Ultimate is a 3D bi-plane that has been with parkjets with a long time. Check it out. (July Rank: #6)

4. F-35 by RC Cal: The F-35 remains popular and for good reason. The platform is an excellent one for floating around a small area. And it's new airplane for the U.S. Airforce. The F-35 features some simple thrust vectoring tabs so you can flip on a dime and the profile design let's you put it together in a few hours. (July Rank: #5)

3. Hydro: The Hydro remains popular. And its not a jet either. That's 3 of the Top 10 that aren't even jets. The Hydro combines a boat and a plane and its all fun. Give it a shot. (July Rank: #2)

2. F-15 by Jamie Rothwell: The F-15 by Jamie Rothwell is an excellent example of balancing scale design with simple builds. The F-15 has a score and fold techique for the nose but can still be built with a single sheet of depron foam. Want something a little different? Go with the F-15. (July Rank: #3)

Jamie Rothwell F-15

1. F-22 by Steve Shumate: The F-22 remains the number one plan on parkjets. The super scale design is a marvel of engineering, especially since the whole thing is made out of depron. With construction guides, accessories from 6mmFlyRC, its very well supported by the community. (July Rank: #1)

Steve Shumate F-22

ParkJets 8/19/12 ParkJets 8/19/12

NEW PLAN - F4F WILDCAT

Jamie Rothwell, the designer of the great Alpha Jet and the excellent F-15, sent us over for his intrepretation of the mighty F4F Wildcat. Using many of his techniques, including semi-scale with simplicity, Jamie as provided an excellent plan for an RC F4F Wildcat.

The nose of the Wildcat is one of the most recongnizable features of the real thing and using his score and fold method, Mr. Rothwell takes the F4F to a great place. Excellent as a park flyer or as a 3D type flyer, the F4F is an excellent platform for just about anything you want to throw at it.

The entire plan is available for free download and the whole plane is made from one sheet of foam, one carbon rod and some pretty standard power equipment. So give it a shot, download and build it. And send in your flight reports!

ParkJets 8/12/12 ParkJets 8/12/12

STEVE SHUMATE - INTERVIEW

Frequent visitors to Parkjets probably already knows the name Steve Shumate. His designs have been featured in multiple print magazines and continue to be very popular on Parkjets. Some even call him the "godfather of parkjets." Since Steve's designs are by far the most popular download on our site and since we started this interview series, we figured we would shoot him an E-mail. Well, we reached out to Steve and asked if he would be willing do a small interview with Parkjets and he agreed! So sit back and enjoy a little insight from one of the best designers of RC Parkflyers out there...Steve Shumate.

Steve, although we always think everyone knows your name is synonymous with parkjet designs, a lot of our readers are brand new to the RC hobby. Can you give us just a little background information?

Sure. I've been flying RC for 30 years now. I built my first RC airplane back when I was a teenager and taught myself how to fly (it was a 2-meter sailplane, so wasn't too hard). I've been an airplane nut my whole life, and built plastic models, free flight models, and control line models before graduating up to RC. I got my full scale pilot license when I was 18, and then went to college and earned a degree in Aerospace Engineering. I was hired by the Boeing Company right after graduating, where I still work today. I've been lucky enough to spend my whole career in Product Development at Boeing, and helped design many Boeing jets that never got built (600-seat double deckers, new versions of the 747, Sonic Cruiser), and a few that did (777-300ER, 787). I worked on the 787 from Day 0 on the program and am still working on the 787 today. My current job is in Product Strategy, where I help figure out what new versions of the 787 Boeing should develop in the future.

That's an amazing career so far. Being able to do what you love and all at a company that is on the front line in passenger flight on a global scale.

Steve Shumate SU-37

I'm sure a lot of our readers are envious of all the really awesome projects you have had a hand in shaping. With such a heavy workload and family, do you manage to get out and fly anymore?

A little, but not a lot. I've got two small kids at home, and family takes up much of my free time these days. I'm sure I'll get back into the hobby more once they're older.

That's understandable. When you have a few kids, your priorities shift and we see it all they time in hobbyists. Many visitors to Parkjets have been out the hobby for 20 years and then get the itch again.

Fokker DR1

Even though the hobby has taken a little bit of a back seat for you...you've been pretty active on the RC forums out there, and we haven’t seen any designs out of your shop in a while. Do you have any desire to get behind the CAD software and begin designing again? We know if you did, the buzz around whatever you designed would be tremendous. In some ways it would be like long awaited sequel to a blockbuster movie.

I DEFINITELY have the desire to design new airplanes, but just don't have much free time right now. That said, I always have a project or two on the back burner that I like to tinker with when I get the time. Can't let my CAD skills get too rusty!

We will get our popcorn ready when you give us the word! The nutty thing about CAD software is that it is getting easier and more consumer friendly all the time. The Google Sketch Up product is a fantastic example of some consumer friendly software. But we know what you mean, with the rapidly changing world of software, it's easy to get rusty. We hope you decide to knock the rust off soon!

Steve Shumate X-31 EDF

One of the great things about your designs is that so many others have taken them and modified them a little with the help of CAD. Are you surprised that your designs really sparked so many other hobbyists to take their ideas and put them down on paper (or CAD)? It just seems like your designs shifted so many people’s thought process in terms of using a new material like depron foam to create scale models that performed well and look great.

Yes, I'm continually amazed at how popular some of my designs have become, and feel quite honored. I certainly didn't invent parkjets or Depron scale models, I just borrowed some good ideas from others before me and integrated them together. To me, much of the credit for how popular my designs have become goes to RC Groups, which makes it so easy for folks to share their work and discuss it with others. It's where I learned most of what I know about foam RC models, and where I've then shared my new ideas. And of course other RC forums from around the world link to and borrow stuff from RC Groups, expanding the influence.

We have to say that we have spent our fare share of time browsing RC Groups, reading through the mountains of threads and questions. It's one of the best resources out there.

Steve Shumate F-14 TomcatYour designs continue to be very popular on Parkjets, and we know they are flying all across the world. In the fast evolving world of RC Airplanes, your designs have stood the test of time. Why do you think your designs have had such lasting power?

I think a key reason is the balance they strike between being quick building vs. semi-scale. True scale models tend to be complicated to build and challenging to fly, yet quick-building flat foam models fly great but tend to not look very scale. So I've tried to find a good balance between those two competing design goals in all my designs. I'm also not afraid to deviate slightly from scale to improve flying qualities, things like enlarging tails for more stability or making small wing planform changes to reduce tip stall. Nearly all of my designs have tails that enlarged about 10-20% from scale, for example. Scale looks are important, but not as important as buildability or flyability in my book!

As any RC pilot can attest, crashing a scale plane feels no different than one that has a slightly larger tail. Flyabilty is absolutly key. I'm sure you know that your F-14 and F-22 are very popular designs and continue to be some of the most downloaded plans on our site.

In fact, last month, out of the top 10 designs downloaded, you had four (SU-37, F-14, Super Bandit, and F-22). But just down the list is a design that doesn't get a lot of discussion, the Boeing Sonic Cruiser. We know you have a personal connection to the design, can you just briefly tell us about your personal connection?

Yes, I was the Configuration Design lead for the Sonic Cruiser. I was responsible for integrating the aerodynamics, structures, and payloads elements, and then developing the overall design of the airplane. It was one of the most fun times of my career! The Sonic Cruiser broke new ground in many areas, and was an airplane engineer's dream to work on. Lots of design challenges looking for innovative solutions. But as you probably know, the market eventually shifted toward fuel efficiency over speed, so Boeing ended up putting much of that new technology into a slower airplane that eventually became the 787. So once the Sonic Cruiser project was cancelled, all of the engineers like me simply transitioned over to the 787.

The Sonic Cruiser is by far your simplest design, especially when compared to say your SU-37. The Sonic Cruiser is really just a profile type parkjet with twin power and working canards, which makes it very unique.

Steve Shumate Boeing Sonic Cruiser

Do you have any advise for builders out there wanting to build the Sonic Cruiser?

It took two prototypes to get a Sonic Cruiser model that flew well, but the final design is really a pussycat in the air and easy to fly. The key advice I can give is to be careful to ensure the two motors are perfectly matched, which is standard advice on twin-engine models. Also make sure to keep the weight down.

The Sonic Cruiser looks so good in the air. We sure wish the real thing was built and flying! Another popular design is your SU-37. By far this is the most impressive model we have seen, just in terms of pulling it out at the flying field. It always get a lot of attention. But what design are you most proud of? I mean, everyone loves the F-22, but even your Fokker DR1 is a very cool design too.

I'd say the Su-37 is the design I'm second-most proud of. The first has to be the F-14. It took a lot of hours behind CAD to figure how to make that model easy to build yet scale-looking and good flying. The wing swing mechanism was an especially challenging part of that design. I also had to make some tough calls on the scaleness of the model, such as losing the characteristic canted engine inlets to greatly simplify construction. But the best part was the prototype flew perfect from the first flight on, no design modifications were needed. That said, if you ask which of my designs that I personally fly the most, it would be the Fokker DR1. It's simply a blast to fly that model. I love how it can be flown slow and scale-like one minute, and then do harriers and hovering the next. Plus it requires only the smallest of flying fields, so I can fly it anywhere.

Love the Fokker. It's so stable in flight and a great change of pace from the jet designs. But you are probably right, the F-14 has such an impact with the swing wings, a real engineering victory!

What continues to amaze us at Parkjets is that so many of our users are first time builders. With all the out of the box (RTF) models coming out every week, we just can’t believe there are so many out there that still want to get their hands dirty, create their own model. There is a certain satisfaction, we think, to starting with an empty work bench and completing a project. And for you, the satisfaction must be 100 fold, given that you know that thousands and thousands of modelers have taken your designs and had so much fun. Why do you think there is this base desire for modelers to keep building?

I agree 100%--nothing compares to the feeling of starting with a few flat sheets of foam on your work bench and then turning them into a great flying and scale-looking model airplane. RTFs can't begin to compete with that level of satisfaction in my book. And yes, I'm especially thrilled that my work has encouraged others to try their hand at building from scratch rather than just owning RTFs. RTFs have their place and I certainly own a few, but I don't feel anywhere near the connection with those models as I do with the ones I built myself.

It's funny you say that, because in some ways a scratch built RC airplane is like an old car. You just get connected to those models that you have a hand in building and creating. Like that old car that you have replaced a few parts on, kept it going over the years, and talk in to starting on a cold morning. It's very satisfying!

Steve Shumate F-22 Raptor

Over the last few years, we have seen a rapid expansion of EDF, and we get asked this all the time, "How can I adapt an EDF set up to one of the Steve Shumate models?" Do you have any advise for builders wanting to convert your plans to EDF?

Yes, many of my designs lend themselves quite well to EDF conversion--and many of my later designs I specifically designed with that in mind. However, EDFs aren't easy to get to work well. To have a good-flying EDF, the power system (fan diameter, motor, battery) must be precisely matched to the airframe (wing sizing, weight, inlet area, exhaust area. If you just plunk a fan unit into a model (including my park jets), the chances of success are minimal. At minimum you've got to pick the right size power system and verify or modify the airframe design to provide the proper inlet and exhaust sizing. I've designed two EDF models (Super Bandit, X-31), and was surprised at how much design work it took to match the airframe to the intended power system. But that work paid off, as both flew very well.

EDF is something we have dabbled in and it seems now, the power systems are getting to the point where the EDF can do pretty well in the air. We like to stick to the larger fans, but your X-31 design flies so well, and with the thrust vectoring, it's truely an amazing plane. We don't want to take up too much of your time, but do you have anything else you want to add? One thing we try to stress out there to our users is that the various designers deserve a little donation, which they can do on every page.

The only thing I'd add is to encourage guys who are used to flying RTFs to try building a foam model from scratch or from a kit. The sense of satisfaction you'll get from the end result will probably give you a whole new appreciation for this great hobby.

That's great advice Steve. Thank you so much for taking the time to crank out this interview. We know our readers will love all the great things we have gone over. Good luck to you and your family! Blue Skies!

There you have it folks! Be sure to check out all of Steve's great designs and for those of you wanting to cut out a little build time, our site sponsor, 6mmFlyRC, has some great kits of a lot of Steve's designs. They also have stand alone products like clear canopies and decals available for you if you want to cut out your own.

Annual Membership $24.99

One Week Membership $5.00

Categories