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Vintage RC Helicopters - RC Helicopter history
So, where did it all really begin, who was first, why, how???? Through the pages of this section I will try to answer these questions and lead you through the years of development in the world of RC helicopters. Before that a quick history of 'full size' is at the following link highlighting the tortuous path in achieving a 'manned' helicopter; http://www.helis.com/introduction/prin.php Moving on then, this section gives an overview on the history of RC helicopters in a year by year format. Each page will provide reports from old articles, competitions, Fun Fly's, and as much information as I can glean in order to give an idea of how RC helicopters developed and the trends over the years. Additionally, where better to get a 'feel' for RC Helicopter history than examples of what was being offered for sale throughout the years as highlighted by including 'Adverts'. Many articles are from magazines of the era and also personal input from a number of enthusiasts though unfortunately (at this time at least) with a bias towards Europe (UK in particular) as that is where the majority of information has been sourced. Many thanks therefore go to all companies, publishers and individuals without whom this ongoing project would not be possible. Of special note is Dieter Schlüter who has allowed use 'verbatim' of his recollections which makes the earlier years easier to chronicle (See Acknowledgements). Pre 70 - This period highlights the many approach's to the problems of achieving a practical radio control model of a helicopter. 1970 - with a 'successful' model Radio controlled helicopter; plus the first commercial kit with the Cobra. 1971 - Consolidation year for Dieter Schlüter with displays in the US plus a development year for others trying to catch up; Kalt bring out the Cobra 450. 1972 - First demonstration in the UK and USA of Dieters RC 'Cobra' Helicopter; Dub-Ro (USA) bring out the Whirlybird 505. 1973 - First UK Helicopter design competition with three more German manufacturers producing their first kits. 1974 - UK entered the RC Helicopter kit market place with the Micro-Mold Lark; first of the small 'affordable' helicopters. 1975 - Consolidation year for many and introduction of the Heli-Baby. 1987 - Scale models in the majority for competitions. 1988 - Model Helicopter world started as a bi-monthly production. Historic flights of a RC Helicopter piloted from a full size Helicopter. 1989 - Another example of controlling helicopters from a full size in flight but this time two at once. 1990 - pending
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