The current world speed record for a radio controlled model aircraft, according to the 'Guinness Book of Records', is 390.92 km/h (244.3 mph) and it was set on 10th June, 1977, by Walter Sitair of Austria.

On 29th September, 1998, a team of English modellers made an attempt to set a new record at the Barrow-in-Furness airfield, Cumbria, in northern England. The team, organised by David Cadman, with Steve Elias as the pilot, used two aircraft which were both based on the 'Exocet' kit from French company Aviation Design. However, both these aircraft had their inlet areas reduced by 50% and were highly modified and strengthened to allow for the additional stresses, and had also been extensively tested.

Accurate groundspeed recording was measured using a pair of calibrated 'Speed-Masters', set up as required by the 'Guinness Book of Records' regulations, together with full video recording, and also an on-board telemetry system that records and downloads maximum airspeed and altitude. The model for the record attempt was fitted with an AMT Olympus motor, producing 42 lbs thrust, and the aircraft weighed just 24 lbs dry. Unfortunately, after only a couple of passes over the speed measuring equipment the vertical stabiliser started to flutter, and the model was landed immediately for safety reasons. Not enough accurate readings were recorded to allow a speed record. The other Exocet, powered by an AMT Pegasus, recorded 282 mph (451 km/h), but this was not eligible as it was measured by the on-board telemetry which can only record airspeed. Bad weather and a low cloudbase on the following day prohibited any further attempts.

Unperturbed by this setback, the team are now working on the design and construction of a new airframe, which will also be powered by an AMT Olympus turbine, and they will make another world speed record attempt in 1999. They expect to break the 300 mph (500km/h) barrier with ease.

Richard Noble, of 'THRUST' fame, also flew in to the airfield to watch the record attempt, and said that he had found it very interesting and had enjoyed himself.

We will post more news as it happens....