E-flite Carbon-Z Cessna 150 2.1m BNF Basic (EFL1450)

The ultimate guide to E-flite Carbon-Z Cessna 150T 2.1m BNF Basic

If you are looking for an impressive Giant-Scale model aircraft that enthuses both beginners and experienced pilots, then the revised and improved carbon-Z Cessna 150T 2.1m BNF Basic may be exactly what you are looking for. This impressive model combines state-of-the-art technology with excellent flight performance and easy handling. In this detailed article we will examine all the important aspects of this Giant-Foamy model so that you can make a sound purchasing decision.

Technical specifications at a glance

The technical data of the E-flite Carbon-Z Cessna 150T 2.1m are impressive and clear why this model is so popular among enthusiasts:

SpecificationDetails
Range2125 mm (2,1m)
Weightapprox. 4200g
Weightapprox. 3500g
MaterialEPO with Carbon-Z reinforcement
MotorisationBrushless External Runner (preinstalled)
ControllerSpectrumTM AvianTM 60A Brushless Smart Controller
RecipientSpectrum AR637TA 6-channel
Servos6 Metal Gear Servos (preinstalled)
Battery recommendation4S 14.8V to 6S 22.2V 3200–7000mAh LiPo
Connection typeEC5TM or IC5®
Degree of completionBind-N-Fly Basic
FlapsYes
Drive typeElectric

This Giant-Scale Cessna offers an authentic flying experience with its impressive span of over two meters and is surprisingly light and transportable thanks to the Carbon-Z design.

Material quality and design

The Cessna 150T by E-flite impresses with its high-quality processing and sophisticated design. The composite reinforced hollow core construction made of EPO material allows a light yet extremely durable aircraft cell. This innovative construction, known as Carbon-Z, combines the advantages of foam models with the structural strength of carbon reinforcements.

The surface quality of the model is excellent – clean lines, precise hinges and a detailed surface testify to the high production quality. The coating is applied uniformly and the labels are sharp and detailed. Particularly noteworthy are the metal transmission servos installed at the factory on all functions that ensure a crisp and precise control.

The fuselage and surface connections are robust and provide a reliable structure even in demanding flight maneuvers. In spite of the enormous size, the design allows a surprisingly low weight, which has a positive effect on the flight properties.

Flight performance and handling

Flight characteristics

The Carbon-Z Cessna 150T offers impressive flight characteristics that delight both beginners and advanced pilots. With a 4S battery, the model shows true-of-the-art flight characteristics, ideal for relaxed scale flights. If you want more performance, you can switch to a 5S battery. The use of a 6S LiPo battery is recommended for maximum performance and "better than scale" flight characteristics.

The generous wing span of 2.1 meters gives the model excellent stability in the air. The control reacts precisely and foreseeably to inputs, while the metal transmission servos provide a crisp control. The flaps allow realistic start and landing maneuvers as well as effective speed control.

Flight times

Flight times vary depending on the battery used and flight style:

  • With a 4S 5000mAh battery, about 10-12 minutes are possible with moderate flight style
  • A 5S 5000mAh battery allows for about 8-10 minutes with more power reserves
  • With a 6S 5000mAh battery you can reach 7-9 minutes with maximum power

If higher-capacity batteries (6000-7000mAh) are used, the flight times can be extended accordingly. The flexibility in battery selection is a great advantage of this model, as it allows pilots to adapt their flights as needed – from quiet scale flights to dynamic art flight maneuvers.

Increased power

The climbing power of the E-flite Cessna 150T 2.1m is impressive and depends on the chosen battery configuration:

  • With 4S: Moderate, scale-realistic rise rate
  • With 5S: significantly improved climbing performance for more dynamic flying
  • With 6S: Impressive, far above the scale model

The pre-installed powerful brushless motor combined with the 60A Avian Smart controller delivers more than enough thrust for almost all flight situations. Even with full load and unfavorable wind conditions, the model offers sufficient power reserves.

Construction and preparation

Installation time and instructions

One of the great advantages of E-flite Carbon-Z Cessna 150T 2.1m BNF Basic is the high degree of prefabrication. As a Bind-N-Fly model, almost all components are already installed on the factory. The assembly is mainly limited to:

  1. Mounting of the chassis
  2. Attaching the supporting surfaces to the fuselage
  3. Installation of the height control unit
  4. Installation of the flight battery
  5. Binding of the receiver with remote control

The entire assembly time is about 45-60 minutes for an experienced model builder. The included user manual is clearly structured and offers detailed step-by-step instructions with helpful illustrations. The precise information on the required rudder deflections and center of gravity are particularly helpful.

Required additional components

To make the model ready for flight, you need:

  • A compatible spectrum DSMX/DSM2 transmitter with at least 6 channels
  • A LiPo battery (4S-6S, 3200-7000mAh) with EC5 or IC5 connection
  • A matching LiPo charger

Transport capacity

Despite the impressive size, in the construction of the Carbon-Z Cessna 150T the transport capacity was thought of. The two-part support surface can easily be separated from the fuselage, which considerably facilitates transport. Fastening takes place via practical thumb screws that do not require additional tools.

For transport, a padded bag or a special transport case is recommended to avoid damage. With removed support surfaces, the model fits in most SUVs or combinations. The carbon-Z construction ensures a comparatively low weight despite the size, which facilitates handling during transport.

Customer Experiences and Reviews

Customer feedback on the E-flite Carbon-Z Cessna 150T 2.1m is mostly positive. Many pilots particularly praise the excellent flight characteristics and high-quality processing. A recurring theme in the reviews is the impressive stability in the air that appreciates both beginners and experienced pilots.

Experienced model flyers highlight the versatility of the model – the possibility to choose between different battery configurations is seen as a big plus point. The Cessna can be everything from the cozy Sunday afternoon flyer to the dynamic sports flyer.

Some users report smaller problems with the suspension recordings in hard landings, but recommend simple reinforcements as a preventive measure. The spare parts supply is consistently rated as good, which is also expected for a model of this price class.

The pre-installed components such as motor, controllers and servos consistently receive positive evaluations for their reliability and performance. The precise control is particularly highlighted by the high-quality metal transmission servos.

Test results and expert reviews

In specialist tests, the Giant-Foamy model of E-flite regularly cuts very well. Testers praise the balanced balance between stability and agility. The Cessna 150T is described as an ideal model for entering the Giant-Scale class without compromising experienced pilots.

The long-term tests confirm the durability of the carbon-Z construction. Even after many flight hours and occasional harder landings, the structure remains intact and the flight characteristics remain unchanged. The EPO construction with carbon reinforcements proves to be resistant to fatigue phenomena.

The various applications are particularly positive in tests. From relaxed scale flights to more dynamic maneuvers – the Cessna 150T masters all tasks with Bravour. The possibility to use different battery configurations additionally increases the flexibility.

Target group and accessibility

The E-flite Carbon-Z Cessna 150T 2.1m BNF Basic is aimed at a broad target group of model aircraft:

  • Advanced beginners: Pilots who have already gained their first experiences and want to enter the world of larger models
  • Experienced model flyers: Pilots looking for a reliable, versatile Giant-Scale model for different flight styles
  • Scale enthusiasts: Lovers of true-to-origin aircraft models that value authentic appearance and flight behavior

With activated SAFE Select system, the model provides support for less experienced pilots, while advanced pilots can disable this function and exploit the full potential of the model. The size of the model, however, requires some respect and should not be chosen as the first model.

Spare parts supply and support

The spare part supply for the Carbon-Z Cessna 150T is excellent. As a product of E-flite, an established brand in the Horizon Hobby Group, a long-term availability of original spare parts is guaranteed. Long wear parts such as propellers, suspension components and small parts are in stock at numerous dealers.

The customer support of Horizon Hobby enjoys an excellent reputation in the model building community. For technical questions or problems, a competent team is available that reacts quickly and in a solution-oriented manner.

Community support

An active community has developed around the E-flite Carbon-Z models. In numerous forums, YouTube channels and social media owners exchange experiences, tips and modifications ideas. This vibrant community is especially valuable for newcomers who can benefit from the experience of other pilots.

Popular platforms for exchange are:

  • RC-Groups.com with specialized threads to Carbon-Z models
  • Various Facebook groups for e-flite and especially Carbon-Z enthusiasts
  • YouTube channels with flight videos, construction instructions and tuning tips

The community not only offers technical support, but also inspiration through shared flight videos and modification examples.

Comparison of competitive products

In the segment of the large electric foam model aircraft there are some noteworthy alternatives to the E-flite Carbon-Z Cessna 150T:

FMS Super EZ V2 2000mm

Advantages over the Cessna 150T:

  • A little cheaper in the purchase price
  • Especially beginner-friendly flight behaviour

Cons:

  • Less scale details
  • Low construction quality
  • Not so versatile in flying properties

Dynam Grand Cruiser 1800mm

Advantages:

  • Significantly lower price
  • Good basic equipment

Cons:

  • Small span
  • Simpler construction without carbon reinforcement
  • Less precise flight behaviour

E-flite Carbon-Z Cub SS 2.1m

Advantages:

  • Similar high quality construction
  • Excellent slow flight properties
  • Improved wing tip shape for better handling at low speeds

Cons:

  • Other aircraft type (blow plane instead of trainer)
  • Less Scale-Appeal for Cessna lovers

In direct comparison, the Carbon-Z Cessna 150T stands out due to its combination of size, quality and flight performance. The possibility to choose between different battery configurations also makes it more versatile than many competitive products.

Value for money

With a price in the middle to upper segment for Giant-Scale foam models, the question of the price-performance ratio is naturally raised. When considering the equipment, the quality of the pre-installed components and the flight performances, the E-flite Carbon-Z Cessna 150T can be considered to be fair priced.

The high-quality components such as the range Avian 60A controller, the powerful Brushless motor and the six metal transmission servos justify a part of the price. Added to this is the elaborate carbon-Z construction, which combines durability with low weight.

Compared to pure wood or GFK models of similar size, the Carbon-Z Cessna 150T is significantly cheaper and requires less construction time. At the same time, it offers flight services that can withstand many more expensive models.

Tips, tricks and optimizations

Optimum focus adjustment

The correct focus is crucial for good flight characteristics. carefully experiment with the position of the flight battery to fine tune the focus. A slightly head-loaded focus ensures more stable flight behavior, while a neutral focus provides more agility.

Battery optimisation

  • For beginners, a 4S 5000mAh battery for good-natured flight behavior is recommended.
  • Experienced pilots can use full power with 5S or 6S batteries
  • Use batteries with at least 40C discharge rate for optimal performance
  • Mark the position of different batteries in the battery compartment for a quick focus adjustment

Chassis modifications

The suspension can become a weak point in harder landings. Preventive reinforcement of the suspension mounts with thin plywood or GFK mats can significantly improve durability.

Propeller optimization

The standard propeller offers a good compromise on performance and smoothness. For more thrust at low speed, a propeller with a higher pitch can be helpful, while a propeller with a larger diameter can increase the maximum speed. Always note the manufacturer recommendations regarding the maximum propeller size.

Flight settings and mixing functions

Modern remote controls offer numerous possibilities for optimizing flight behavior:

  • Querruder-Differential: Reduces undesirable yaw movements during transverse rudder stops
  • Compensation of landing flaps: Automatic height-rescue mixing prevents unwanted rise
  • Surface mix: Use of the flaps as an additional cross slider for an improved roll rate
  • Exponential settings: Reduced sensitivity to the neutral position for more precise flying

Frequent questions and problems of users

"How can I maximize flight time?"

To maximize flight time, you can combine several strategies:

  • Use a higher capacity battery (6000-7000mAh)
  • Fly with moderate gas, especially at 5S and 6S configurations
  • Take care of efficient flight patterns and avoid unnecessary full gas phases
  • Optimize You the propeller for efficiency instead of maximum performance
  • Regularly check the rudder linkages with ease

"My suspension is damaged after a hard landing. How can I strengthen it?"

Chassis damage is a common problem with larger foam models. Here are some solutions:

  • Strengthen the suspension recordings with thin plywood or GFK plates
  • Use strong epoxide glue for repairs instead of second glue
  • Train soft landings on grass areas
  • In case of recurring problems, an upgrade to reinforced chassis parts may be useful.

"What remote control is best suited?"

As a BNF basic model, you need a compatible spectrum DSMX/DSM2 remote control with at least 6 channels. Recommended options are:

  • Spectrum NX6 for beginners and advanced
  • Spectrum NX8 or NX10 for advanced programming options
  • DX9 Black Edition for pilots who control many different models

"Can I fly the model without SAFE?"

Absolutely! The SAFE Select technology can be activated or deactivated when binding the receiver. Experienced pilots often dispense with SAFE and use only the AS3X stabilization, which ensures a more precise feeling of flight.

"How do I transport the model best?"

The following measures are recommended for transport:

  • Demonstrate the wings of the hull
  • Use a padded bag or a special transport case
  • Secure loose parts and remove the battery before transport
  • For flight trips there are special transport cases with sufficient protection

"Is an upgrade to a more powerful engine possible?"

The standard Brushless external rotor motor offers sufficient power, especially in combination with 5S or 6S batteries. A motor upgrade is rarely necessary and can even lead to problems with structural strength. If you still want more power, consult a specialist beforehand to clarify the effects on controllers, battery requirements and structural loads.

Conclusion: For whom is the E-flite Carbon-Z Cessna 150T?

The E-flite Carbon-Z Cessna 150T 2.1m BNF Basic is an impressive Giant-Scale model that convinces with its combination of quality, performance and versatility. It is particularly suitable for:

  • Advanced beginners who want to enter the world of great models
  • Experienced pilots looking for a reliable and versatile Giant Scale model
  • Scale enthusiasts who want an authentic aircraft model with good flying characteristics
  • Model flyers looking for an uncomplicated yet impressive model for the airfield

With its high pre-production, high-quality equipment and excellent flight characteristics, the Carbon-Z Cessna offers an excellent overall package. The possibility to choose between different battery configurations also makes it exceptionally versatile – from a cozy Sunday flyer to a dynamic sports model.

Despite the not inconsiderable purchase price, this Giant-Scale Cessna offers a convincing price-performance ratio, especially considering the quality of the built-in components and the long-term pleasure of flying. For many pilots it will not only be a model, but a long-term companion at the airfield.

Bind-N-Fly Basic
Yes
Elektrisch
61.8 in (1570mm)
1053 sq in (68 sq dm)
83.7 in (2125mm)