Brands
E-flite planes
By Paul Walsh Last reviewed
E-flite is the plane brand of Horizon Hobby, the US company that also owns HobbyZone, Blade, Spektrum and Arrma. It's one of the most common plane brands at UK flying fields, thanks largely to its stabilised trainers and its tiny UMX models.
E-flite in brief
E-flite makes foam electric planes from palm-sized micros to large scale and sport models, almost all built around Spektrum radio gear and Horizon's AS3X and SAFE stabilisation. AS3X smooths out gusts; SAFE adds self-levelling and Panic Recovery for learners. How these work is covered in gyro-stabilised RC planes.
Status (checked October 2026): trading, sold in the UK through model shops including Sussex Model Centre and Access Models.
Key models
| Model | Type | Approx. UK price | Suits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apprentice STS 1.5m RTF Basic | 4-channel trainer, SAFE, optional GPS | about £387 | A first "proper" trainer |
| UMX Turbo Timber Evolution BNF | 698mm micro STOL | about £180 | A second plane for calm days |
| Night Radian 2.0m BNF | Motor glider with lights | check retailer | Relaxed soaring, evening flights |
The Apprentice STS has a 1.5m wingspan and takes a 3S 3200 to 4000mAh battery (not included in the Basic version). Its SAFE system offers beginner, intermediate and experienced modes plus Panic Recovery (Horizon Hobby).
The HobbyZone sister brand
For a gentler start, Horizon's HobbyZone range includes the AeroScout S 2 (about £300, with a RealFlight trainer edition), the Sport Cub S 2 (about £180 to £200, a micro that flies indoors or in calm air) and the Duet S 2 (about £100, a 3-channel micro with battery and charger included). Prices from Wonderland Models, October 2026. Our best RC planes for beginners compares them all.
Radios and spares
BNF models bind to Spektrum DSMX transmitters. RTF models include one. Spares are widely stocked in the UK, which matters: you will need propellers and probably a spare part or two. See RC transmitters explained if you're choosing a radio.
Repairs
E-flite trainers are EPO foam, which repairs well with foam-safe glues. Our guide to repairing a crashed RC plane covers the techniques.
How it compares
E-flite is at the premium end of foam planes. FMS offers similar quality and often more size for the money; Volantex is cheaper but less refined. The RC plane buyer's guide explains what matters when choosing.
All the makers are on the brands page.
RC Mods is not affiliated with or endorsed by E-flite or Horizon Hobby.
Frequently asked questions
Is the E-flite Apprentice STS good for beginners?
It's one of the best-known beginner trainers. Its SAFE system has beginner, intermediate and experienced modes plus Panic Recovery, and an optional GPS module adds automatic landing.
Are UMX planes good first planes?
Most aren't. UMX models are small, light and quick, and need a 6-channel Spektrum radio. They're excellent second planes for calm days.
What is the difference between E-flite and HobbyZone?
Both belong to Horizon Hobby. HobbyZone focuses on ready-to-fly beginner planes; E-flite covers trainers through to advanced sport and scale models.