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The AMA “Pennyplane” gets its name from the fact that the rules set the minimum weight of the model to 3.1 grams (without rubber motor) which roughly corresponds to the weight of an English penny (the weight of an American penny is about 2.4 grams) and is perhaps the most popular class of indoor model. There are two different classes of Pennyplane, the "Novice" or "Beginner" Pennyplane, and the "Unlimited" or "Open" Pennyplane. Both classes must meet the minimum weight limit, a maximum wing span of 18”, and a maximum length of 20” measured from the leading edge of the prop to the tail which gives them a rather “stubby" appearance. The Unlimited Class is frequently of biplane configuration and capable of flight times in excess of 20 minutes.
Novice class rules add further limitations to wing and stab chord dimensions, motorstick construction, and propeller diameter and are limited to monoplanes. Novice Pennyplanes are capable of flight times of over 13 minutes.
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An Unlimited Class Pennyplane built by Steve Smith |
