what is a remote controlled aircraft called?

Have you ever looked up at the sky and seen a tiny marvel soaring gracefully, seemingly defying gravity, piloted by an invisible hand? Perhaps you’ve witnessed a nimble quadcopter capturing breathtaking aerial footage, or a sleek model airplane performing aerobatic stunts. These incredible machines, controlled from the ground, spark curiosity and wonder in enthusiasts and casual observers alike. A common question that often arises, especially for those new to the hobby or encountering these devices for the first time, is: what is a remote controlled aircraft called?

The answer, as you might expect, isn’t a single, simple term. The world of remotely piloted flight is incredibly diverse, encompassing everything from child’s toys to sophisticated commercial and military systems. Each category often boasts its own specific nomenclature, reflecting its design, purpose, and level of technology. Understanding these terms not only enriches your appreciation for the field but also helps you navigate the exciting landscape of aerial robotics.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unravel the various names and classifications for these airborne wonders. We’ll delve into the history, technology, and common applications, ensuring that by the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what is a remote controlled aircraft called in its many forms, and why these distinctions matter. Get ready to explore the skies!

Quick Answers to Common Questions

What’s the most common general term for a remote controlled aircraft?

The most common and general term you’ll hear is simply an “RC aircraft” or “RC plane.” Many people also just call them “drones,” especially if they have multiple rotors.

Are there other names people use for what is a remote controlled aircraft called?

Absolutely! You’ll often hear terms like “model aircraft,” “UAV” (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle), or more specifically, “RC helicopter” or “RC quadcopter” depending on the design.

Is “drone” the right word for any remote controlled aircraft?

While “drone” is widely used, it specifically refers to an unmanned aerial vehicle that can fly autonomously or be remotely controlled. So, yes, many modern remote controlled aircraft, especially multi-rotor ones, fit this description perfectly.

What do hobbyists usually call their remote controlled aircraft?

Enthusiasts often stick with “RC plane,” “RC helicopter,” or “RC jet,” specifying the type. They might also use “model aircraft” to emphasize the building and flying hobby aspect.

So, if I’m looking to buy one, what is a remote controlled aircraft called that I should search for?

When searching online, “RC aircraft,” “RC drone,” “RC plane,” or “RC quadcopter” are all excellent terms to use. Your choice will depend on the specific type of remote controlled aircraft you’re interested in.

The Umbrella Term: “RC Aircraft” and “Model Aircraft”

At the most fundamental level, when discussing flying machines controlled remotely by an operator on the ground, two terms stand out as broad, overarching categories: “RC Aircraft” and “Model Aircraft.” These terms serve as the bedrock upon which all other more specific designations are built, especially within the hobbyist community.

Defining “Remote Control” (RC)

The abbreviation “RC” fundamentally stands for “Remote Control” or, more accurately in this context, “Radio Control.” This specifies the method of operation: a human pilot uses a handheld transmitter (often called a “radio”) to send signals via radio waves to a receiver onboard the aircraft. This receiver then translates those signals into commands that control the aircraft’s motors, propellers, wings, and other control surfaces. The concept of RC aircraft dates back over a century, with early pioneers experimenting with radio-controlled boats and eventually aircraft in the early 20th century. Today, RC technology has advanced significantly, offering incredibly precise and reliable control over vast distances.

When someone asks what is a remote controlled aircraft called, “RC aircraft” is often the most straightforward and universally understood answer, especially for hobby-grade models. It instantly conveys that the device is flown from a distance, rather than having a pilot on board.

“Model Aircraft” vs. “RC Aircraft”

While often used interchangeably in casual conversation, there’s a subtle but important distinction between “model aircraft” and “RC aircraft.”

• Model Aircraft: This is a broader term that refers to any non-full-sized, flying or non-flying replica of an aircraft. A model aircraft can be a static display piece, a free-flight glider, or even a paper airplane. The key is that it’s a miniature representation of a real or imagined flying machine.
• RC Aircraft: This term specifically refers to a model aircraft that is designed to be flown remotely using radio control. Thus, all RC aircraft are model aircraft, but not all model aircraft are RC aircraft. For instance, a beautifully crafted, non-flying scale model of a Boeing 747 is a model aircraft, but it’s not an RC aircraft.

Regulatory bodies, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States, often use the term “model aircraft” to define a specific category of unmanned aircraft primarily flown for recreational purposes, often with certain operational restrictions. Understanding this distinction is crucial when discussing legal and safety aspects of flying.

Fixed-Wing Remote Controlled Aircraft: More Than Just “RC Planes”

When many people imagine a remote controlled aircraft called something specific, the image of a “plane” often comes to mind. Fixed-wing RC aircraft are perhaps the most traditional and recognizable form, directly mimicking the design and flight principles of full-sized airplanes. These aircraft rely on the lift generated by their stationary wings moving through the air to stay aloft, and typically use a propeller or jet engine for propulsion.

RC Airplanes: The Classic Choice

The term “RC airplane” is perhaps the most iconic and widely recognized designation within the fixed-wing category. These models come in an astonishing variety of types, each designed for different purposes and skill levels:

• Trainer Planes: Designed for beginners, these are typically stable, easy to fly, and durable. They often have high wings and gentle flight characteristics.
• Sport Planes: A step up from trainers, sport planes offer more aerobatic capabilities and faster speeds, appealing to intermediate pilots.
• Scale Models: These are meticulously built replicas of real aircraft, often with incredible attention to detail. They can range from warbirds (e.g., Spitfires, Mustangs) to modern airliners or general aviation aircraft.
• Electric Ducted Fan (EDF) Jets: These models use an internal fan within a shroud to simulate jet propulsion, offering high speeds and sleek aesthetics without the complexity of actual turbine engines.
• Gliders/Sailplanes: Designed to catch thermals and updrafts, these unpowered or minimally powered fixed-wing aircraft can stay aloft for extended periods, relying on atmospheric conditions for lift.

The appeal of RC airplanes lies in their graceful flight, the challenge of mastering aerobatics, and the satisfaction of building or assembling a miniature flying machine. For many, this is the epitome of what is a remote controlled aircraft called when they first enter the hobby.

Beyond Planes: RC Jets and Gliders

While “RC plane” is a common catch-all, specific types of fixed-wing models also carry their own identifiers:

• RC Jets: While EDF jets fall under RC airplanes, the term “RC jet” can also refer to models powered by miniature turbine engines, which replicate the raw power and sound of full-scale jet aircraft. These are advanced, high-performance models for experienced pilots.
• RC Gliders/Sailplanes: As mentioned, these are distinct from powered airplanes. They are designed for efficient, unpowered flight, often launched from a winch, by hand, or towed by a powered “tug” plane. Their elegant soaring capabilities make them a unique segment of the fixed-wing RC world.

These specialized fixed-wing aircraft demonstrate the breadth of engineering and piloting skill required in the hobby, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with remote control technology.

Rotary-Wing Remote Controlled Aircraft: From Helicopters to Drones

Moving away from the fixed-wing design, we enter the realm of rotary-wing aircraft, characterized by spinning blades (rotors) that generate lift. This category has seen immense growth and diversification, particularly with the advent of multirotor technology. When people ponder what is a remote controlled aircraft called in a modern context, they often think of drones.

RC Helicopters: Precision and Complexity

Before the drone boom, “RC helicopter” was the primary term for remotely controlled rotary-wing flight. These models are intricate machines, typically featuring a main rotor for lift and a tail rotor for anti-torque and directional control (or two main rotors in a coaxial configuration).

• Single-Rotor RC Helicopters: These mimic full-scale helicopters, requiring significant skill to master due to their inherent instability. They are capable of advanced aerobatics, including inverted flight.
• Coaxial RC Helicopters: Easier to fly, these have two main rotors spinning in opposite directions, cancelling out torque and offering more inherent stability, making them popular for beginners.

RC helicopters are renowned for their precision hovering and three-dimensional maneuverability. Their complexity often makes them a challenging yet rewarding segment of the RC hobby, often seen as a pinnacle of piloting skill.

The Rise of Multirotors: “Drones” and “UAVs”

The 21st century brought about a revolution in rotary-wing flight with the popularization of multirotor aircraft. Instead of one or two large rotors, these aircraft use multiple smaller propellers (typically four, six, or eight) mounted on individual arms. This design offers incredible stability, ease of control, and a robust platform for carrying various payloads.

• Quadcopter: The most common type, featuring four propellers.
• Hexacopter: Six propellers, offering more lift capacity and redundancy.
• Octocopter: Eight propellers, used for heavy-lift applications and maximum stability.

These multirotor aircraft are most commonly referred to by two key terms:

1. Drone: This term has become ubiquitous. Originally associated with military unmanned aircraft, it’s now widely used for almost any remotely piloted multirotor, regardless of size or purpose. It’s concise and easily understood by the general public when discussing what is a remote controlled aircraft called.
2. UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle): This is a more technical and formal term. It emphasizes that the aircraft is “unmanned” (no pilot on board) and “aerial vehicle.” It applies to a broad spectrum of aircraft, from small hobby drones to large, sophisticated military reconnaissance aircraft. “UAV” is often preferred in professional, commercial, and governmental contexts.

Drones/UAVs have truly democratized aerial capabilities, enabling stunning aerial photography and videography, infrastructure inspection, package delivery experiments, search and rescue operations, and even high-speed racing.

Actionable Insight: Choosing Between Fixed-Wing and Rotary-Wing

Your choice depends on your primary interest:

• Fixed-Wing (RC Planes): Ideal for those who love speed, graceful soaring, traditional aviation aesthetics, and covering long distances efficiently. They typically require open spaces for takeoff and landing.
• Rotary-Wing (Drones/RC Helis): Perfect for precise hovering, vertical takeoff/landing, capturing aerial footage in confined spaces, and complex 3D maneuvers (helicopters). Drones are often easier for beginners to pick up thanks to advanced stabilization systems.

Specialized Categories and Emerging Terminology

Beyond the broad fixed-wing and rotary-wing classifications, the world of RC aircraft continues to evolve, spawning specialized categories and new terminology driven by technological advancements and specific applications. This further complicates the question of what is a remote controlled aircraft called, but also makes the field more exciting.

FPV Drones: An Immersive Experience

One of the most thrilling developments in recent years is the rise of First Person View (FPV) drones. Unlike traditional RC piloting where you watch the aircraft from the ground, FPV flying involves a camera mounted on the drone that transmits live video footage to goggles worn by the pilot. This creates an incredibly immersive experience, making the pilot feel as if they are actually sitting in the cockpit.

FPV drones are typically characterized by:

• Racing Drones: Built for speed, agility, and durability, designed to navigate complex courses at high velocity.
• Freestyle Drones: Optimized for acrobatic maneuvers and dynamic flight, often used for cinematic FPV videography.

While technically a type of multirotor drone, the term “FPV drone” distinctly highlights the unique piloting perspective, setting them apart from camera drones flown “line of sight” (LOS) or using a screen on a controller.

Commercial and Military Designations: “UAS”

As the capabilities of unmanned aircraft grow, so does their integration into commercial and military operations. Here, the term “drone” or “UAV” might be too narrow. The preferred term in these contexts is often:

• UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System): This is a more comprehensive term that refers not just to the aircraft itself (the UAV) but to the entire operational system. A UAS includes:
  • The Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)
  • The Ground Control Station (GCS) where the pilot operates the aircraft
  • The data link (the communication system between the GCS and UAV)
  • Any other supporting equipment or payloads (e.g., cameras, sensors)

Using “UAS” acknowledges the complexity and interconnectedness of modern unmanned flight operations, especially in professional settings where safety, regulations, and operational protocols are paramount. When asking what is a remote controlled aircraft called in a regulatory or industry meeting, “UAS” is often the most appropriate and encompassing term.

Toy RC Aircraft vs. Hobby-Grade

The market also differentiates based on the target user and complexity:

• Toy RC Aircraft: These are typically inexpensive, small, durable, and very easy to fly. They are designed for casual fun and often sold in general retail stores. Their flight performance is usually limited, and repairability is often low. They serve as an excellent entry point for beginners.
• Hobby-Grade RC Aircraft: These are more sophisticated, offer superior performance, better build quality, and are often customizable and repairable. They come with advanced features, require more skill to assemble and fly, and are sold through specialized hobby shops. This category includes everything from advanced trainers to competition-level aircraft.

Understanding this distinction helps set expectations for performance, cost, and the learning curve involved when exploring the world of remotely controlled flight.

Navigating the Nomenclature: Why the Variety Matters

By now, it’s clear that there isn’t one single answer to what is a remote controlled aircraft called. The multitude of terms reflects the rapid evolution, diverse applications, and varying levels of sophistication within the field. Understanding these nuances isn’t just about vocabulary; it has real-world implications for safety, legality, and enjoyment of the hobby.

Legal and Regulatory Implications

The terminology used for remote controlled aircraft is often directly tied to legal definitions and regulations. Governments and aviation authorities worldwide, such as the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) in the U.S. or EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency), differentiate between various types of unmanned aircraft.

• Model Aircraft: Often subject to different, generally less stringent, regulations than commercial drones, especially if flown purely for recreational purposes within specific guidelines.
• Small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) / Drone: For commercial or non-recreational purposes, these typically require pilot certification (e.g., FAA Part 107 in the U.S.), aircraft registration, operational waivers, and adherence to strict flight rules (e.g., no flying over people, night flight restrictions, specific airspace limitations).

Misunderstanding these terms can lead to accidental non-compliance, resulting in fines, legal trouble, or even dangerous incidents. Always check local regulations pertaining to the specific type of remote controlled aircraft you intend to operate.

Choosing Your First RC Aircraft: Key Considerations

For aspiring pilots, understanding the terminology helps in making an informed decision about your first purchase. Here are some actionable tips:

1. Define Your Purpose:
   • Fun & Learning: A “toy drone” or a “trainer RC airplane” is a great starting point.
   • Aerial Photography/Videography: Look for “camera drones” or “photography UAVs” with good gimbal stabilization.
   • Speed & Adrenaline: “RC racing drones” (FPV) or “RC sport planes” are your go-to.
   • Replication & Craftsmanship: “Scale model RC aircraft” will appeal to builders and collectors.
2. Consider Your Skill Level: Beginners should opt for models with built-in stabilization (especially for drones) or inherently stable designs (like high-wing RC trainers). Advanced “RC helicopters” or “turbine RC jets” are for experienced pilots.
3. Budget: “Toy drones” can be under $100, while high-end “professional UAS” can cost tens of thousands. Determine what you’re willing to invest in the aircraft itself, plus accessories like extra batteries, spare parts, and a good controller.
4. Maintenance & Repair: Hobby-grade “RC aircraft” are generally designed to be repaired, with parts readily available. Toy models often are not.
5. Community & Support: Look for local RC clubs or online forums. These communities are invaluable resources for learning to fly, troubleshooting, and understanding the specific terminology and best practices for different types of remote controlled aircraft.

Data & Statistics: The Growing World of RC Aviation

The fascination with what is a remote controlled aircraft called isn’t just about hobbies; it’s part of a burgeoning industry. The market for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) – encompassing everything from consumer drones to military systems – has experienced exponential growth, transforming various sectors and capturing public imagination.

According to various market research reports, the global drone market is projected to continue its robust expansion. For instance, reports indicate the global drone market size, valued at approximately USD 26.3 billion in 2022, is expected to reach over USD 180 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 21%.

This growth is fueled by diverse applications:

• Consumer Drones: Popular for recreational use, photography, and videography.
• Commercial Drones: Utilized in agriculture (crop spraying, monitoring), construction (site surveys, progress monitoring), inspection (infrastructure, power lines), delivery services, and public safety.
• Military Drones: Employed for surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat operations.

Here’s a simplified illustration of the projected market segment growth (values are illustrative and based on general industry trends, not precise real-time data):

Market Segment	Approx. Market Share (2023)	Projected Growth Area
Consumer Drones (Recreational RC)	~30%	Advanced features, ease of use, FPV.
Commercial Drones (UAS)	~45%	Logistics, agriculture, inspection, public safety.
Military Drones (UAS)	~25%	Surveillance, tactical operations, autonomous capabilities.
Total	100%	Technological innovation, regulatory evolution.

The sheer volume of new registrations, particularly for hobbyist drones, underscores the accessibility and widespread adoption of these technologies. As technology advances, we can expect even more sophisticated and specialized remote controlled aircraft to emerge, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the skies above us.

Conclusion

So, what is a remote controlled aircraft called? As we’ve explored, there isn’t one definitive answer, but rather a rich tapestry of terms that reflect the incredible diversity and evolution of these flying machines. From the classic “RC airplane” and “RC helicopter” to the modern “drone,” “UAV,” and “UAS,” each term carries its own specific connotations regarding design, purpose, and operational context.

Whether you’re a seasoned hobbyist, a professional pilot, or simply curious about the aerial wonders you see, understanding this varied nomenclature enhances your appreciation for the technology and helps you navigate the exciting world of remote-controlled flight. These devices represent a triumph of engineering and a testament to humanity’s enduring dream of soaring through the skies, albeit from the ground. So, the next time you see one, you’ll know it’s more than just a “thing in the air” – it’s a testament to innovation, controlled remotely, and ready to explore new horizons. Happy flying!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common names for a remote controlled aircraft?

The most common names are “RC aircraft,” “RC plane,” “RC helicopter,” or simply “drone.” While “drone” is widely used, it often refers specifically to multi-rotor unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

Is a drone considered a remote controlled aircraft?

Yes, all drones are types of remote controlled aircraft. However, not all remote controlled aircraft are drones. The term “drone” usually implies a multi-rotor design and often includes autonomous flight capabilities, whereas “RC aircraft” is a broader term encompassing planes, helicopters, and other designs controlled manually.

What is the official or technical name for a remote controlled aircraft?

The official or technical term is “Unmanned Aerial Vehicle” (UAV) or “Remotely Piloted Aircraft” (RPA). These terms are often used in regulatory and professional contexts, especially for larger or more sophisticated aircraft that may have autonomous capabilities or specific operational requirements.

What are some different types of remote controlled aircraft?

Remote controlled aircraft come in various forms, including RC planes (fixed-wing aircraft), RC helicopters (single or multi-rotor), and multi-copters like quadcopters or hexacopters. Each type offers different flight characteristics and is suitable for various purposes, from recreational flying to aerial photography.

What are remote controlled aircraft used for?

Remote controlled aircraft are used for a wide range of purposes, from recreational hobbies and aerial photography to professional applications like surveying, search and rescue, package delivery, and military operations. Their versatility allows them to access areas that are difficult or dangerous for manned aircraft.

What does “RC” stand for in “RC aircraft”?

“RC” stands for “Radio Controlled” or “Remote Controlled.” This acronym highlights the primary method of operation, where a pilot on the ground uses a radio transmitter to send signals that control the aircraft’s movements and functions.