PHOTO GALLERY: Radio-controlled aviation offers cheaper, alternative ways to enjoy a hobby

June 23, 2012 | 8:25 p.m. CDT

Members from the Mid-Missouri Radio Control Association take their hobby to the skies as they enjoy a cheaper, alternative way to experience aviation through radio-controlled planes and helicopters.

Nick Wagner takes a turn flying one of his radio-controlled helicopters Friday in the space behind the DANA Corporation. Wagner is a member of the Mid-Missouri Radio Control Association. The club currently has about twenty members, down from 80 before the loss of their former flying home. The club is currently in negotiations to lease a new piece of property. | Amy Bruer

This radio-controlled helicopter is owned by Nick Wagner, who commissioned the original artwork from an artist whose work he had seen online and admired. | Amy Bruer

Bob Ackerman, left, and Roger Hills hang out at a casual meet-up of the Mid-Missouri Radio Control Association on Friday behind the DANA Corporation. Hills has been flying RC planes and helicopters since the 1970s. He has flown fixed wing planes mostly, but has flown helicopters for about 3 years. | Amy Bruer

Radio-controlled helicopters are lined up for their owners to take turns flying them on Friday behind DANA Corporation. | Amy Bruer

A radio-controlled plane owned and flown by Bob Ackerman flies over the Mid-Missouri Radio Control Association's behind DANA Corporation on Friday. The plane was a Father's Day gift from his children. | Amy Bruer