Hangar 9

Hangar 9 is a premier manufacturer of radio-controlled aircraft and related accessories, operating as a division of the global hobby distributor Horizon Hobby. Founded in 1995, the company has established itself as a leader in the scale model segment, renowned for its detailed Almost Ready-to-Fly (ARF) kits and extensive support for the RC aircraft community. Its product lines encompass a wide range of aircraft, from trainer aircraft for beginners to complex warbird and aerobatic aircraft replicas for advanced pilots.

History

The company was established in Champaign, Illinois, as a specialized brand under the Horizon Hobby umbrella, focusing on high-quality scale model kits. Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Hangar 9 grew in prominence by collaborating with renowned RC aircraft designers and securing licensing agreements to produce officially sanctioned replicas. A significant milestone was its partnership with aircraft manufacturers like Piper Aircraft and North American Aviation, allowing for authentic reproductions of iconic planes such as the Piper J-3 Cub and the P-51 Mustang. The brand's commitment to innovation was further solidified with the introduction of its 3D aerobatic series and the expansion into larger, giant scale aircraft models, cementing its reputation within the Academy of Model Aeronautics community.

Products and Services

Hangar 9's core offerings consist of meticulously crafted Almost Ready-to-Fly and Ready-to-Fly airframes that require minimal assembly. Its extensive catalog includes detailed trainer aircraft like the Apprentice STS, a wide array of warbird replicas such as those modeled after the Messerschmitt Bf 109 and Spitfire, and high-performance aerobatic aircraft like the Extra 300 and Sukhoi Su-26. The company also produces a comprehensive line of essential accessories, including replacement parts, decals, and specialized hardware. Furthermore, it provides detailed assembly manuals and extensive online support through the Horizon Hobby network, ensuring resources are available for modelers of all skill levels participating in events like the Toledo Weak Signals RC Expo.

Company Structure and Operations

As a key division of Horizon Hobby, Hangar 9 operates within a larger corporate structure that includes sister brands like E-flite and Spektrum. Its operations are centralized in Illinois, where design, marketing, and customer support functions are managed. The company leverages Horizon Hobby's global distribution and logistics network to supply hobby shops and distributors worldwide, including major retailers like Tower Hobbies. Research and development are closely tied to pilot feedback and trends observed at major competitions such as the Tournament of Champions, ensuring its product development aligns with the evolving demands of the RC aircraft community.

Notable Aircraft and Projects

Among its most celebrated releases is the giant-scale P-51D Mustang, a highly detailed replica that has become a flagship model for scale competition enthusiasts. The Carbon-Z Cub is another landmark product, utilizing advanced carbon fiber construction for exceptional durability and flight performance. The company has also gained acclaim for its series of 3D aerobatic planes, including the Ultimate Biplane and the Van's RV-4, which are popular at aerobatic meets like those sanctioned by the International Miniature Aerobatic Club. Collaborative projects with pilots such as Quique Somenzini have resulted in specialized aircraft tailored for precision IMAC and 3D flying sequences.

Community and Events

Hangar 9 maintains a strong presence within the radio-controlled aircraft community through active sponsorship and participation in major events. The brand is a frequent sponsor of the Joe Nall All Fly event at Triple Tree Aerodrome and competitions like the Scale Masters Championships. It supports local clubs affiliated with the Academy of Model Aeronautics by providing demo aircraft and prize donations for fun-fly events. Furthermore, the company fosters a robust online community through forums and social media engagement, offering build logs, flight tutorials, and direct interaction with its team of sponsored pilots, which helps cultivate a loyal following among hobbyists from Europe to Asia.

Category:Radio-controlled aircraft manufacturers Category:Companies based in Illinois Category:Hobby companies