Twin Otter RC Plane: E-flite 1.2m, Avios 1.6m and Building Your Own
The de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter, a rugged twin-engine STOL utility plane, is a favourite RC subject because it flies slowly, looks great on floats and is easy to land. Ready-made foam versions include the E-flite Twin Otter 1.2m (BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE, or PNP, with flaps, LED lights and floats), the Avios Twin Otter 1.6m in EPO with optional floats, and the XFly Twin Otter 1.8m. Flite Test also sells an FT Twin Otter foam-board kit for builders.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
Models compared
| Model | Span | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| E-flite Twin Otter | 1.2 m | BNF Basic (AS3X/SAFE) or PNP; flaps, lights, floats included |
| Avios Twin Otter | 1.6 m | EPO, PNF, wheels and floats, interchangeable noses |
| XFly Twin Otter | 1.8 m | STOL trainer/float/FPV platform |
| FT Twin Otter | Kit | Foam-board build from Flite Test |
From maker and dealer listings, checked October 2026.
Flying a twin
The Twin Otter’s two motors give smooth, scale-looking flight and a little redundancy. Check both motors spin at the same speed and in the right directions before every flight. Take-offs are short with flaps, and landings are slow and forgiving. If one motor fails in the air, reduce throttle on the other, keep the speed up and land promptly; a twin flying on one engine pulls towards the dead side. Stabilisation on the E-flite version makes it calm in gusty air.
Floats
Most Twin Otter models include floats, and flying from water is a highlight. Take off by building speed smoothly until the floats plane, then lift off gently. Land into the wind with a shallow approach. Plan how you’ll recover the plane if it stops on the water. Other float-capable planes are listed in best RC bush planes.
Choosing a Twin Otter
- 1.2 m for portability and stabilisation; 1.6–1.8 m for stability and presence.
- BNF/PNP depending on whether you have a radio.
- Battery size (often 3S) and how many you’ll need.
- Parts availability, especially props and floats.
- Kit if you enjoy building.
Setup tips
- Balance at the recommended CG with your battery.
- Check flap travel and set a little elevator compensation if needed.
- Confirm both motors are synchronised and props are on correctly.
- Test lights, flaps and steering on the ground.
- First flight on wheels from a grass field in calm air.
The real Twin Otter
The full-size Twin Otter has served airlines, militaries, polar expeditions and island hoppers since the 1960s, flying from short strips, snow and water. Its versatility is exactly what makes the model so enjoyable. Plane types in general are covered in RC fixed-wing aircraft.
Building the foam-board version
The Flite Test kit is a cardboard-faced foam-board build that uses common electronics: two small brushless motors and ESCs, servos for ailerons, elevator, rudder and flaps, and a 3S battery. Building takes a few evenings, and the result is light, slow-flying and easy to repair. It’s a good project for pilots who want a twin without the cost of a moulded foam model, and spare parts can be cut from fresh foam board whenever needed.
Lights and details
The E-flite version’s LED navigation and landing lights make it look great at dusk and help with orientation. Adding pilot figures and decals makes any version look more realistic, but keep an eye on weight.
FAQ
What RC Twin Otters are available?
E-flite 1.2m, Avios 1.6m, XFly 1.8m and a Flite Test kit.
Does the E-flite Twin Otter have floats?
Yes, floats are included.
Is it good for beginners?
With stabilisation it’s forgiving, but best after a trainer.
What if one motor fails?
Reduce throttle, keep speed and land soon.
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
