RMAC Scale Fly Day - A Celebration of Model Aviation
By Willie Bodenstein
11 October 2026
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Radio-controlled (RC) scale model aviation is far more than a hobby. It combines a passion for flight with engineering, craftsmanship, attention to detail and the skills required to bring miniature versions of real aircraft to life. At the Rand Model Aeronautical Club (RMAC), these qualities were on full display on Sunday, 11 October, when model aviation enthusiasts gathered for a day of impressive aircraft and flying demonstrations.
In South Africa, model aircraft activities operate within the regulatory framework of the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), with the South African Model Aircraft Association (SAMAA) serving as an approved Aviation Recreation Organisation (ARO).
The roots of organised model aviation in South Africa stretch back to August 1937, when the South African Model Aeronautic Association was established at the initiative of Viv Gracie of Cape Town, Phil Dalgety of Durban and Alf Yardley of Johannesburg. Until the mid-1950s, the principal activities were free-flight and control-line modelling. Radio-controlled flying gained popularity in 1958, prompting the establishment of a body to oversee competitive activities. In 1986, efforts to unite the various aero modelling disciplines under one organisation led to the formation of SAMAA as we know it today.
With more than 1,800 members and over 80 affiliated clubs, SAMAA continues to support and promote model aviation throughout the country. Membership and appropriate flying qualifications play an important role in ensuring that model aircraft are operated safely and responsibly.
Established in the 1930s, the Rand Model Aeronautical Club is believed to be one of South Africa's oldest model aircraft clubs. With a proud history of promoting aero modelling and radio-controlled flight, RMAC remains an active part of the country's model aviation community.
A SAMAA-affiliated club, RMAC has approximately 120 members and continues to encourage participation in the hobby through flying activities, mentorship and community involvement.
I arrived shortly after 07:30 and met up with club chairman Ezard Verseput, a fellow EAA Chapter 322 member who also enjoys recreational flying in his Sling 4. Ezard had brought along several of his superb models, adding to the impressive selection of aircraft on display and in the air.
Scale model aircraft are judged not only on their appearance but, in competition, also on the accuracy of their construction and how convincingly they reproduce the characteristics and performance of their full-sized counterparts. Judging by some of the visiting aircraft at RMAC on Sunday, the builders and pilots had every reason to be proud of their efforts.
I've always had a soft spot for aircraft from the First and Second World Wars, and there were several models that brought a smile to my face. Reproducing these historic aircraft in miniature requires considerable patience and skill, and seeing them take to the air is a pleasure in its own right.
The civilian aircraft were equally impressive. There were simply too many outstanding models to mention individually, each reflecting the enthusiasm and dedication of its builder and pilot.
One of the highlights was the parachute-drop demonstration, now a familiar feature at many RC flying events. Watching miniature parachutists descend from the sky, with remarkable accuracy and precision, was nothing short of astonishing. It is one of those demonstrations that reminds us just how much ingenuity and technical skill go into this fascinating hobby.
My thanks go to RMAC for its warm hospitality. Visiting your events is always a pleasure, and your club deserves its reputation as one of the friendliest around.
It was a wonderful day, thoroughly enjoyed by everyone in attendance. Unfortunately, work commitments meant I had to leave at around 13:30. I undoubtedly missed a few more memorable flights before the day's activities came to an end, but I left with a camera full of memories and a renewed appreciation for the people who keep the spirit of model aviation alive.
RMAC Scale Fly Day was a fine celebration of aircraft, craftsmanship, flying skill and, above all, the camaraderie that makes aviation such a special community.
Rand Model Aeronautical Club Scale Fly In Part Five 141
