FMS 1100mm PC-21 PNP

This “21st-century trainer” delivers scale performance

- Andrew Griffith

FMS has been producing models that are often unique in either design or color scheme, and its new Pilatus PC-21 is no exception. Featuring a 43.3-inch wingspan, the PC-21 is a sharp-looking and unusual subject modeled in a convenient size. The high degree of prefabrication means that much of the work required to get into the air is already completed for you.

The PC-21 is constructed of high-ratio and low-density EPO 52 foam. EPO 52 is quite strong but weighs 15 percent less than high-density foam. The model comes factory painted in a striking bright red Pilatus factory color scheme that uses an environmentally friendly water-based paint. The sleek lines of the fuselage, the swept-back wings, and the mean-looking 5-blade propeller combine to make the PC-21 look a bit like a Ferrari with wings—poised to go fast!  to have a wish, I’d ask for the landing lights to be equipped with functional LEDs; then the already great-looking model would really pop! I put a lot of flights on the PC-21 over the course of two weeks and never had any issues with the electric landing gear—indeed, half my club must have flown it on Model Aviation Day.