Do-it-Yourself (DIY), Beginner Model Plane

Squirrel is an improved free flight model airplane design. It's a remarkable indoor/outdoor flyer with greatly simplified construction. Using Tissue Paper and Balsa Wood construction, it can be built by beginners faster and easier than any other airplane in it's class. It's also an excellent performer and is loved by expert flyers.

Model Airplane Design Objectives

Increase accessibility of model aviation to children and adults by creating simple designs that fly well and are made from common materials and are easy to build.

Provide mentorship and support to newcomers, workshop operators, school teachers, Cubs, Scouts and other organizations.

Promote model aviation, creativity, productive play and general problem solving.

Video and narration by Bill Kuhl.

Profile of Darcy Whyte, Squirrel Designer

Fascinated with aviation since age nine, Darcy has explored many aspects of aviation art and science. With natural mentoring abilities and a physics background he delivers fun and educational workshops for educational and recreational organizations.

What is Rubber Power and Free Flight Avionics

A Rubber-Powered Free Flight Airplane is a free flying model powered by an elastic rubber band. The elastic band is wound to store potential energy which is released as it unwinds. Built carefully, some can stay aloft for forty minutes or longer. Most can cover hundreds of feet. Today, this activity is educator's choice for developing appreciation for the technicalities of flight and other scientific principles in schools. Children and teachers can discover and appreciate the usefulness of mathematical principles, scientific principles, problem solving methods and team development through competition.