ARF RC airplanes are a great option if you want a gentle introduction to traditional balsa and plywood model aircraft without having to build everything from scratch.
They sit perfectly between fully built Ready To Fly models and traditional kit-built airplanes, offering hands-on assembly without overwhelming complexity.
What Does ARF Mean in RC Airplanes?
ARF stands for Almost Ready To Fly (also called ARTF in some regions). These RC airplanes are sold largely pre-built and factory covered, with only final assembly and component installation left to the pilot.
Typically, you’ll install the radio gear, servos, motor or engine, and complete minor structural assembly. Compared to traditional kits, ARF RC planes dramatically reduce build time while still teaching core construction skills.
ARF airplanes have grown massively in popularity thanks to improved manufacturing quality and a wide range of models covering trainers, aerobatic aircraft, warbirds, and gliders.
ARF RC Airplanes – Final Assembly Explained
Although most of the structure is complete, ARF RC airplanes still require some final work. Common tasks include:
- Installing hinges on control surfaces
- Mounting landing gear
- Tailplane and fin assembly
- Fuel tank installation (for glow or petrol engines)
- Fitting servo linkages and pushrods
Most modern ARF kits use CA hinges, which makes control surface installation fast and reliable. With a good instruction manual, even pilots with limited building experience can complete an ARF successfully.
Build Quality & Brands
Quality varies between manufacturers, so research is important. Well-known ARF RC airplane brands include Seagull Models, Hangar 9, Great Planes, and Black Horse.
Popular aerobatic ARF airplanes like the Seagull Edge 540 demonstrate just how refined ARF kits have become.
Electric vs Glow ARF RC Airplanes
Early ARF RC airplanes were predominantly glow or petrol powered. Today, electric power systems are equally popular — often preferred for their cleanliness, reliability, and ease of use.
Many ARF kits now support both electric and internal combustion setups, allowing pilots to choose their preferred power type.
A great electric ARF example is the E-flite Super Cub, a favourite among beginners thanks to its forgiving flight characteristics.
ARF RC Gliders
ARF kits aren’t limited to powered airplanes. There are excellent ARF RC gliders available, offering traditional construction without the complexity of motor installation.
The E-flite ElectroStreak ARF is a classic example of a high-quality ARF glider that assembles smoothly and flies beautifully.
Are ARF RC Airplanes Good for Beginners?
ARF RC airplanes are excellent for pilots who want to move beyond foam RTF models but aren’t ready for a full scratch build. They teach valuable skills while keeping frustration to a minimum.
However, ARF kits are not always cheaper than Ready To Fly models. Once radio gear and power systems are added, total cost can exceed that of an RTF airplane.
That said, if you enjoy understanding how your RC airplane is built and want a stronger connection to the hobby, ARF airplanes are a fantastic next step.
All of this and much more is covered in our Beginner’s Guide 👇
The Beginner’s Guide To Flying RC Airplanes is a 139-page, easy-to-read e-book written for complete newcomers. It explains exactly what to buy, how to set it up, where to fly and how to avoid the classic mistakes that wipe out so many beginners.