Folks are in line to get last-minute practice.
By Tim DiPeri
By Saturday, August 1, most of the competition helicopter pilots had gathered in Muncie, Indiana to begin the USA Model Helicopter Championships (Nats) of 2026. The disciplines include three precision-flying classes (Sportsman, Advanced, and Expert); three classes of Scale competition (Precision #518, Team Scale, and Sport Scale) and finally, FAI (including F3C and F3N).
With eight independent classes of model helicopter competition flying over several days, the event should be a great time for everyone. In addition to the US Nats, this event will also serve as the USA Team Selection (F3C and F3N) for the next world championships in 2027!
This day, before the competition formally begins, is normally used to set up the field markers and judges’ locations. It also allows the competitors to unpack (many have driven several days to arrive) and be sure the helicopters survived the journey.
There will be lots of practice flying and catching up before day one of the competition begins. We received a good dose of the famous Muncie thunderstorms and cool temps.
