Lancaster RC Plane: Foam PNF Models, Plans and Flying Tips
The Avro Lancaster is one of the most popular four-engine RC warbirds. Ready-made versions are EPO foam PNF models of about 1300–1320 mm (52 in) span, sold by HobbyKing, with four small brushless motors and, on newer versions, retracts and bomb doors. For bigger Lancasters, builders use plans: Project Air’s 87 in (2.2 m) foamboard design or classic balsa plans of around 74 in for four 540-size motors. Here’s how they compare and how to fly a four-engine bomber.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20264 min read
Lancaster RC options
| Model | Span | Type | Power | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HobbyKing Avro Lancaster (retracts, bomb doors) | 1300 mm | EPO PNF | 4 × 18 mm outrunners, 1200 kV | Retracts, door sequencer, bomb doors, plug-in wings |
| HobbyKing Lancaster V2 “Thumper” Mk III / V3 | 1320 mm | EPO PNF | 4 brushless motors, ESCs pre-wired | Pre-painted, decals applied |
| Project Air Lancaster | 2.2 m (87 in) | Foamboard plans | 4 motors (your choice) | Templates to trace onto foam board |
| Peter Holland sport scale (plan) | 74 in | Balsa plans | 4 × 540 electric motors | Classic built-up design |
| AMA plans service “Avro Lancaster 1” | – | Plans | – | Scale plans |
From HobbyKing, Project Air and Outerzone, checked October 2026. Foam versions come and go; check stock and version.
Which Lancaster should you choose?
| You want… | Choose |
|---|---|
| Quickest way to fly a Lancaster | 1300–1320 mm EPO PNF |
| Big presence on a budget | Project Air 87 in foamboard build |
| A traditional scale build | Balsa plans (74 in or larger) |
Setting up a four-engine model
- Check every motor spins the correct way and each prop is fitted the right way round (prop installation).
- Calibrate all ESCs together through a Y-harness so the motors start and run evenly.
- Balance at the CG from the manual with the battery in place.
- Check retracts, gear doors and bomb doors cycle smoothly on the ground.
- Range check and set the fail-safe to throttle off.
Flying tips
- Take off into the wind with gentle throttle; the tail lifts on its own as speed builds.
- Fly scale: wide, smooth turns and gentle climbs look right for a heavy bomber.
- Keep speed up in turns; big-winged warbirds can tip-stall when slow.
- Land with a little power, nose slightly up, on a smooth surface for the retracts.
- If one motor fails, reduce throttle and use rudder to keep straight; land soon.
Upgrades and scale details
- Lights: navigation and landing lights make a big difference at dusk flying displays.
- Sound module: four Merlin engines are the soul of a Lancaster; a speaker module adds them.
- Weathering: exhaust stains behind the engines and worn paint around the crew hatches add realism.
- Stronger gear: foam models land on small wheels; reinforcing the gear mounts helps on grass.
- Scale props: three-blade props look right, but check the motor current with them before flying.
The real Lancaster
The Avro Lancaster was the RAF’s main four-engine heavy bomber in WWII, powered by four Rolls-Royce Merlin engines, with a wingspan of 31.1 m (102 ft). Only two Lancasters are still airworthy: PA474 with the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight in the UK and FM213 in Canada. That makes a 1320 mm foam model roughly 1:24 scale, and an 87 in model about 1:14.
FAQ
Is there a ready-to-fly Lancaster RC plane?
Yes, EPO foam PNF versions of about 1300–1320 mm span; you add a receiver and battery.
Is a Lancaster RC plane good for beginners?
No. Four-engine warbirds with retracts are for pilots who already fly sport planes confidently.
Can I build a big Lancaster myself?
Yes, from foamboard templates (Project Air, 87 in) or balsa plans.
What battery does a foam Lancaster use?
One central LiPo pack powers all four ESCs; the cell count and capacity are given in the manual for your version.
More on this topic: the complete RC Airplanes guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
