Radio-controlled models to take flight

HOW TO GO

What: 17th annual RC Air Show Giant Scale Model Demo

Where: National Museum of the USAF, 1100 Spaatz St., Dayton

When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 31-Sept. 2

Admission: Free

More info: (937) 255-7207 or www.nationalmuseum.af.mil

These planes bring boys’ toys to a whole new level, literally and figuratively. Labor Day weekend is here, and that means that the giant-scale, radio-controlled (RC) aircraft are back to rule the skies above the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.

In this 17th year, more than 200 pilots will entertain about 30,000 spectators over Labor Day weekend with daring aerobatics and other skillful maneuvers. RC jets, warbirds and helicopters from various eras of aviation history will be spinning and diving overhead.

This event is sponsored by the Dayton Ohio Giant Scalers (D.O.G.S.). According to the organization’s website, this is the largest RC spectator event in the U.S. The open flying events are scheduled around a halftime Horizon Hobby air show with warbirds and aerobatics from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day. Prizes and raffles will be provided by RC Hobby Center, Horizon Hobby and Ohio Model Products.

“With the newly repaved runway, the pilots are loving that and telling all their buddies to come out and enjoy the event. We are hearing that a lot of the jet pilots are planning on making the event again this year,” said D.O.G.S. member Blane Miller. “We have had some great events over the years at the show, and this year is shaping up to be on par with our past events. We are hopeful that the weather will be great.”

Frank Noll Jr. and Jim Martin had the initial idea for an RC flying show in 1996. The first year brought in about 45 pilots and up to 2,500 visitors. By the seventh year, the RC Air Show attracted close to 200 pilots with 350 models and about 30,000 visitors.

Those interested in attending this event can use the Spinning Road gate off Airway Road, or the main museum gate off Springfield Street. Just follow the signs to the RC event behind the museum. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.