E-flite's Tensor 40 ARF provides a great way to have fun indoors this winter.

Imagine that every time you wanted to fly your model plane, you would be greeted with perfect weather conditions-absolutely no wind, comfortable temperatures, low humidity, and available light twenty-four hours a day. "Utopia?" you might ask. No, just your local gymnasium, arena or golf dome! Welcome to the wonderful world of indoor electric flight.

Breakthroughs in battery technology, the use of strong, thin, high-density foams, small powerful radio components, and the continuing evolution of small, high-torque electric motors have literally made the sky (or in this case, the ceiling) the limit. The latest aircraft designs allow a pilot to perform an entire 3D schedule inside a gymnasium. Ultra light scale, ducted fan jets and multi-engine aircraft are also taking to the air in this "inside" atmosphere.

Another attraction with these types of models is the cost. Kits for basic airframes usually cost between $30 and $60, and many even include the motor and propeller. Add a speed control, battery and a basic radio, and you are in the air for less than $200. HobbyZone® and ParkZone™ also offers complete aircraft, including radio and batteries, that can fly in the larger indoor facilities for less that $100.

ParkZone Slo-V swoops through a gym.

Indoor flying is a real bonus for flyers living in the cold northern climates. Until recently, wintertime flying could be somewhat of a hassle. It was coats, gloves, hats and hand warmers. Now, many clubs are offering opportunities for weekly fly-ins at local school or rec center gymnasiums. Not only is it great for some quality flying time with your buddies, it keeps those thumbs dialed in for when spring gets here. I can assure you that there is nothing more fun than stepping into a warm building on a cold, snowy winter's evening and flying a model aircraft.

Large indoor flying events are also coming of age. These shows definitely take the swap-meet theme to the next level. Vendors and manufacturers not only sell product out of their booths, but also give actual flying demonstrations. Shows such as the JR Indoor Electric Festival (www.jriefestival.com) offer the unique opportunity to buy-and-fly without leaving the building.

I believe there is no better time than the present to be involved in RC flying. Technology and miniaturization have given us the opportunity to enjoy our hobby in comfort twelve months a year, regardless of conditions. Like I said, the sky (or ceiling) is the limit!