E-flite UMX A-10 Thunderbolt II 30mm EDF Jet BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFLU6550)

Overview: E-flite UMX A-10 Thunderbolt II 30mm EDF Jet

The E-flite UMX A-10 Thunderbolt II 30mm EDF Jet BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFLU6550) is a highly detailed model of one of the most famous support guys in the U.S. Air Force, specially designed for ambitious model flight pilots. This ultra-compact jet model combines strength, maneuverability and innovative technologies such as AS3X and SAFE Select for a stable, controlled flight experience in a new generation of ultra-micro class.

Technical data and facts

Customer reviews and experiences

Many customers praise the E-flite UMX A-10 for their exceptional flight stability and their ability to be safely controlled even in wind. Thanks to AS3X technology, the flight properties remain stable even with lighter arches, so even beginners can easily get in with little experience in the impeller area.

It also highlights how authentic the 1:1 scale model feels: The double turbines produce a surprisingly strong boost for size, the model can convince both in horizontal flight and in climbing flights. The spare parts supply is described as very good in customer forums so that repairs after breakage are easily possible.

Even pilots with little jet experience report that start-ups and landings with activated SAFE Select also succeed from lawns. Although the optional suspension is economical, it works reliably on fixed surfaces. Some experienced users recommend removing the chassis for maximum performance and placing it on hand starts.

The short flight times with very aggressive flight style and the low starting weight, which can lead to lateral wind sensitivity, are individually criticized. In total, 90% of buyers rate the UMX A-10 as the best EDF model of their class for beginners and advanced.

Test results in detail

Independent tests confirm the work specifications and praise the optimized drive unit in particular: The two 30mm impellers in conjunction with the brushless outrunner engines provide sufficient thrust for clean climbing flights and rollers. With a 3S 850mAh battery, gradients of 80-85° are possible without the model losing control.

The flight image is also described as exemplary slow flight characteristics and good-natured transition boundaries ensure that even more critical situations rarely escalate. The electronics (AS3X and SAFE Select) work reliably and without noticeable interventions.

Compared with previous UMX-Jets, the material quality has been significantly improved: the CFRP reinforcements in nose and hull significantly reduce damage in harder landings. According to testers, the A-10 makes a good figure even after several repairs.

Material quality

The cell consists of completely painted, structured EPO foam. Particularly stressed regions such as the nose and the main wing have introduced carbon or Plastic reinforcements, which significantly contributes to durability. As a result, the model is not only light, but also robust against smaller crashes or inconvenient landings.

A drop of wormwood remains: The Impeller gondolas are realistic, but after touching the ground or obstacles occasionally need repair. Spare parts are available.

Flight times

Depending on the battery used (3S, 450–850 mAh), realistic flight times between 3 and 6 minutes are possible. Moderate flight mode and low full gas lead to flight times in the upper area, while aggressive manoeuvres and high thrust use correspondingly shorten time. Compared to other micro-Jets, these values are absolutely competitive.

Increased power

The climbing performance is particularly impressive with a 850mAh 3S battery: The model moves vertically upwards at a considerable speed. Advanced art flight manoeuvres are also easy thanks to the two powerful Impellers and the sophisticated aerodynamics.

Transport capacity

Thanks to the compact dimensions and the low weight, the model can be easily transported in the backpack or in the car. The installation effort on site is minimal, as the model is delivered to 100% pre-assembled on the factory. Simply insert battery, bind transmitters and fly – ideal for fast use in between.

Spare parts supply

Both spare parts and tuning components are available in specialist trade and directly from the manufacturer worldwide. Each component can be individually reordered and simply exchanged from supporting surfaces to impellers to cockpit canopy. This makes the UMX A-10 particularly attractive for multi- and beginner pilots who do not want to risk long downtimes.

Target group

The model is aimed at a wide audience:

• Advanced beginners in the Impeller area
• Jet fans looking for a compact, stable EDF model
• Model builder with little time for construction
• Pilots who prefer a transport-friendly 4-channel jet model for spontaneous flights

Thanks to intelligent flight stabilization, it is explicitly also suitable for beginners in the jet sector who want to gain first experience with Impeller models.

Construction time and instructions

The E-flite UMX A-10 Thunderbolt II 30mm EDF Jet is delivered completely pre-assembled. After unpacking, only the appropriate LiPo battery (not included) must be inserted and the model must be connected to its own spectrum DSMX/DSM2 transmitter – usually this takes less than five minutes.

The well-structured guide (also in German) included in the delivery leads step by step through all necessary steps, from binding to the first flight. Many users confirm that the guide is also very understandable for beginners and does not leave any detailed questions.

Community and Support

The E-flite UMX A-10 has quickly established itself as a reliable, recommended model in online forums and in the model flight community. There are numerous videos, reviews and help topics that offer both beginners and advanced tips and tricks.

Customer support and repair service are assessed as fast and straightforward by the manufacturer and specialist dealers. Spare parts supply and tuning possibilities for motors and electronics are extensively available.

Comparison with alternative products of competitors

The market for Ultra-Micro-EDFs is limited, but the following models should know buyers:

The E-flite UMX A-10 is the only model of this size class as standard AS3X and SAFE Select as well as Telemetry, is extremely entry-level and scores with robust design, making it a test winner for many pilots.

Value for money

With regard to equipment, durability, spare parts supply and delivered flight experience, the price-performance ratio is excellent. The purchase price is in the mid-range for ultra-micro-Jets, but thanks to state-of-the-art technology, high quality and low repair requirements, the investment is rapidly expecting – especially for pilots looking for a durable, reliable model.

Tips, tricks, recommendations and optimizations

• Battery choice: A 3S 850mAh LiPo is recommended for long flight times and intensive climbing flights. The standard 450mAh battery is designed for short, dynamic flights.
• Chassis: Anyone who starts on fixed surfaces can use the enclosed rigid chassis. For maximum performance, however, experts recommend the flight without suspension (hand start).
• Landings: In the case of grass areas, land best without landing gear to avoid damage to the small wheels and gondolas.
• Tuning: Powerusers rely on high-quality LiPos and optimized propellers for even more thrust.
• Instruction: Before the first flight it is necessary to study the instructions, since the SAFE Select functions are initially uninhabited but very helpful.
• End control: Check all plug connections and the mobility of the rows before the flight.

User questions and problems – solutions and answers

1. How to bind the transmitter with the model?
The binding takes place as usual in spectrum products: Switch on the model, hold the connect button on the transmitter until the LED display confirms the connection. The guide explains this in detail.

Two. My model is drifting in a straight trip. Solutions?
Here, the trimming usually helps to adapt to transmitters or briefly disable the SAFE Select and to initialize it again in horizontal flight.

3. Flight time is shorter than expected. What to do?
Check if the battery is fully charged and is not flown too aggressively. Changing to a larger 3S battery increases flight time, but pay attention to the maximum departure weight.

4. Model is damaged after crash. Repair possibilities?
Most damage to hull or wings can be easily repaired with EPO glue or second glue. Spare parts are easy to reorder.

Five. Do you have to wait the model regularly?
The impellers should be checked and cleaned for foreign bodies, otherwise the maintenance effort is very low.

6. Does the E-flite UMX A-10 Thunderbolt II 30mm EDF Jet BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFLU6550) come with battery and charger?
No, both must be purchased separately; recommended 3S 450-850mAh LiPos.

7. Can the model be flown inside?
In large halls or gymnasiums this is possible, classic living rooms are not suitable due to speed and manoeuvrability.

8. Which spare parts are most needed?
Support surfaces, chassis parts and rowing horns are the most used spare parts in this model.

What buyers still want to know

• Compatibility: A DSMX/DSM2 capable transmitter is required for the first flight – ideally from spectrum.
• Finishing: The “Wüstentarn” design is exemplary and ensures good visibility, even at distance.
• Flight fun: Even experienced pilots appreciate the model as “Immer-dabei-Jet” for spontaneous flights.
• Legal aspects: The departure weight is far below the 250g limit, so the statutory requirements (e.g. labelling obligation) are minimal.
• Learning curve: With activated SAFE Select, the learning curve is pleasantly flat. After a few flights you can switch to the pure AS3X mode to enjoy maximum control.
• Accessories: In addition to spare parts, there are transport bags and optional tuning parts.
• Value resistance: The resale value remains stable due to the large community and high spare parts availability.

Conclusion

The E-flite UMX A-10 Thunderbolt II 30mm EDF Jet BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFLU6550) is a well-engineered, detailed model with impressive performance, high reliability and ease of entry. Their versatility, easy handling, robust design and realistic flight behavior make them an ideal micro-jet – both for ambitious jet pilots and model flight newbies who want to enter the EDF world. If you are looking for a compact, transport-friendly Impeller-Jet, you will find it.