Viewfinder: Flying With Model Aviation Air Show

Chances are you heard them buzzing around or saw a few of these giant-scale model aircrafts flying around Eureka this weekend during the annual Model Aviation Air Show sponsored by St. Louis Radio Control Flying Association (SLRCFA), a nonprofit organization and member of the Eureka Chamber of Commerce.

These remote control aircraft present a spectacular show. Many run on turbine jets fueled by gasoline, while others are battery-charged electric aircraft.

There are aerobatic, 3D, military, warbirds and civilian scaled models. Some of the aircraft fly up to speeds of 250 mph, while others are for entertaining spectators with their amazing aerobatic spirals and dives through the air. No matter what type or style of aircraft these experienced pilots fly, they know how to put on a fantastically entertaining show for the whole family.

Many of the pilots said they became interested in flying remote controlled aircraft as kids, and continue to fly at airshows throughout Missouri and Illinois area shows. SLRCRFA is a nonprofit association whose members travel to air shows for charity events, such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

One particular aircraft was custom-built for owner Jason Prarson, of Illinois. This Pitts Model 12 aircraft was a memorial plane dedicated to the surviving members of the aerobatic pilots of the X-Team. These pilots performed at air shows throughout the United States, and were well known for their dogfighting talents in the air. This custom-built aircraft was a replica of the late Jim LeRoy, founder of the X-Team.

One member of the team who had autographed the aircraft was injured while performing an air show in Brownsville, TX, in May. She died Friday after battling severe burns for 75 days in the hospital. Prarson was a bit choked up as he told the story, but is proud to own this memorial aircraft and share the history of the plane.

If you missed this year's Model Aviation Air Show and would like to check one out personally, visit the following websites for updates of their upcoming shows.

• www.SLRCFA.com - St. Louis Radio Control Flying Association
• www.janz.com - Show Me Air Shows
• www.bulldogairshows.com - Bull Dog Remote Control Air Shows
• www.orchardfarmrc.com - Orchard Farm Show June 18-19