The ultimate analysis: Hangar 9 Fun Scale PT-19 PNP model aircraft - A Balsa model with sporty flying characteristics

Welcome to our comprehensive analysis of the wooden model aircraft PT-19. This semi-scale electric flight model with 56.5 inch span has established itself as a popular model among hobby flyers. In this article we will examine all important aspects, from technical data to flight characteristics to practical experience and comparisons with alternatives.

Technical data and specifications at a glance

Before we dive into the details, here is a clear representation of the most important technical features of the military training aircraft in Balsa construction:

included in delivery

• Hangar 9 PT-19 PNP model aircraft
• Spectrum Avian 60 Amp Brushless Smart ESC (already installed)
• 4250-600Kv Brushless Exterior Motor (already installed)
• 4 Spectrum A391 39g Digital Servos (already installed)
• 14x8.5 Wood electric propeller
• User manual

Additionally needed

• 6+ channel remote control with receiver
• 4S 14,8V to 6S 22,2V 2200-5000mAh LiPo battery with EC5 or IC5 connection
• Compatible LiPo charger
• When using a 6S (22,2V) LiPo battery, a 12x6E propeller is required

Customer experiences and reviews

Based on numerous experience reports from model flyers, a clear picture of the PT-19 model can be drawn. The majority of users are impressed by the flight characteristics and the quality of the model.

It is particularly positively highlighted:

The visibility in the air thanks to the distinctive color scheme in yellow, midnight blue, red and white is appreciated by many pilots. The model is suitable for true-scale flying as well as for art flight maneuvers, making it a versatile companion for different flight styles.

An experienced model flyer reports: "After I moved from foam models, I was surprised how much more robust and durable the Balsa model is compared. After several small accidents it hardly shows signs of wear."

Other users praise taxability and stability: "Even with wind, the model remains predictable and can be controlled precisely. An ideal transition from the beginner model to the first scale model."

Critical points and wishes for improvement:

Some users report adjustment difficulties when installing the Spornrad holder. However, this seems to be an isolated problem and does not significantly affect the overall performance of the model.

A recurring note concerns the battery life: "With the recommended 4S 5000mAh battery, I arrive at about 6-7 minutes flight time with mixed flight style. For longer sessions, I recommend keeping several batteries ready."

Test results and flight behaviour

In extensive tests, the true-to-scale PT-19 model has proven to be extremely reliable. The flight behaviour is consistently described as good-natured and predictable, which makes it an ideal model for pilots who have already mastered their basic skills and are now looking for a more demanding but still in vain aircraft.

Flight properties:

• Start and landing: The model gently lifts off and can also be easily landed on non perfect slopes. The fixed suspension is robustly designed and also forgives harder landings.

• Art skills: Although designed as a scale model, the aircraft masters basic art flight figures effortlessly. Loops, Rolls and Immelmanns succeed in precise and clean.

• feeling of flight: The higher weight compared to foam models of similar size gives the aircraft a certain stability in wind and turbulence.

A test pilot reports: "The climbing performance with the recommended 4S battery is impressive. In about 10 seconds, the model reaches a comfortable flight height of 50 meters. With a 6S battery and the corresponding propeller, the rise power is again significantly increased."

Flight times and range:

With the recommended battery configuration (4S 5000mAh), flight times of 6-7 minutes are realistic. With a low-volume flight style, 8-9 minutes can also be reached. With a 6S battery, the available performance increases, but at the expense of a possibly shorter flight time.

Material quality and processing

The Balsa model clearly stands out from today's widespread foam models. The processing quality is generally described as high quality.

Robustness in everyday life:

The wood construction proves to be surprisingly resistant to minor accidents and everyday loads. Unlike foam models that are often irreparably damaged when crashing, damage to the Balsa model can usually be repaired well.

A satisfied owner reports: "After an inconvenient landing on uneven terrain, I had already expected the worst, but apart from a few scratches, the model did not take any damage. Material quality is significantly better than expected."

Surfaces and varnishes:

The colouring in traditional shades is not only visually appealing, but also functional - the model is clearly recognizable even at larger distances. The covering is applied cleanly and shows hardly any release phenomena even after prolonged use.

Transportability and handling

The range of 56.5 inches (143.5 cm) is a certain challenge for transport, but is still within the framework of what can be transported in an average passenger car.

Transport solutions:

Many users report that they use special transport bags for model aircraft or partially disassemble the model for transport. The wings can be removed relatively easily, which considerably facilitates transport.

A practical tip from the community: "I have been accustomed to taking off the wings for transport and packing them separately. With some exercise, this takes only about 2 minutes and significantly reduces the risk of transport damage."

Construction and preparation

As a plug-N-Play (PNP) model, the PT-19 is already largely pre-assembled. The assembly is limited to a few steps and is also well managed for less experienced model builders.

Installation time and difficulty:

Most users report an installation time of less than an hour. This includes the attachment of the wings, the installation of the receiver and the basic setting of the controller.

A model builder describes his experience: "The accompanying instruction is clearly and understandably written. All steps are logically constructed and provided with helpful illustrations. Even as a newcomer in the field of wood models, I had no difficulty."

Settings and fine tuning:

After the basic assembly, experienced pilots recommend placing particular attention on the correct setting of the focus. This is crucial for a stable flight behavior. The instructions provide precise information which serves as a good starting point.

Spare parts supply and support

The availability of spare parts is an important factor for the long-term use of a model aircraft. Here the Hangar 9 model scores by belonging to an established manufacturer.

Spare part situation:

Standard components such as servos, motors and regulators are readily available in specialist trade. Specific parts for the PT-19 model can be purchased via the Horizon Hobby customer service or authorized dealers. The delivery times are described as appropriate.

Community support:

Beyond official support, there is an active community of model flyers that share experiences, tips and modifications. In various forums and groups you will find helpful instructions for maintenance and repair.

An experienced model flyer shares: "The community around Hangar 9 products is extremely helpful. When I had problems with setting up my recipient, I received several detailed proposals within a few hours."

Target group and suitability

The PT-19 model is aimed primarily at advanced beginners and mid-level pilots who have already gained experience with simpler models.

Ideal user profiles:

• Pilots who want to switch from a trainer model to a more demanding aircraft
• Model semi-trailers who want to change from foam models to high-quality wood structures
• Lovers of historical aircraft with interest in true-scale flying
• Pilots looking for a versatile model that is suitable for both cozy round flights and simple art flight maneuvers

A flight instructor from a model flight club reports: "I regularly recommend PT-19 to my students who are willing to take the next step. It makes small mistakes, but at the same time requires enough to develop the skills."

Comparison with alternatives

To enable a sound purchasing decision, we now consider some comparable models of other manufacturers.

Alternative models compared to:

Strengths compared to competitors:

Compared to foam models of similar size, PT-19 offers higher durability and better repairability. The wooden construction also conveys a more authentic flying feeling, which is particularly appreciated by experienced model flyers.

Compared to other Balsa models, it scores due to the high degree of prefabrication and easy assembly. The integrated smart technology with telemetry functions is another advantage that does not offer all competing products.

A collector of several scale models compares: "I own both PT-19 and FMS T-28. While the T-28 offers more scale functions through its retractable suspension and the flaps, the PT-19 convinces by the better construction quality and the more authentic flight behavior."

Value for money

With a price of $449.99, PT-19 is positioned in the middle price segment for semi-scale model aircraft of this size.

Value of components:

The installed components such as the Avian 60 Amp Smart ESC spectrum, the 4250-600Kv Brushless external rotor motor and the four spectrum A391 digital servos are high quality and justify the price. Smart technology with telemetry functions offers added value, which often do not offer cheaper models.

Long term value:

Due to the robust design and the good repairability, the life of the model is significantly higher with appropriate care than with comparable foam models. This relatives the higher purchase price over the service life.

A long-term model flyer resides: "After three years of intensive use of my PT-19 I can say that it was a rewarding investment. The quality of the components and the availability of spare parts have ensured that the model is still flying like the first day."

Tips, tricks and optimizations

Based on the experience of numerous pilots, we have compiled the most important tips and optimization options.

Performance optimization:

• Battery positioning: Experiment with the exact position of the battery to fine tune the focus. Even small changes can affect the flight behaviour noticeably.

• Propeller alternatives: A 13x8 propeller can be used instead of the supplied 14x8.5 for quieter flying with longer flight time. This reduces the maximum performance somewhat, but improves the efficiency in travel flight.

• Servo adjustment: A precise adjustment of the servo paths and medium positions is crucial for exact flying. Take time for this step and use the trim functions of your remote control.

Maintenance and care:

• Regular checks: Check all moving parts on fixed seat and wear before each day of flight.

• Maintaining tension: If necessary, the tension can be restressed with an iron at a low level. This prevents wrinkle formation and improves aerodynamics.

• Store the model dry: Moisture can damage balsa wood. Pay attention to dry storage, ideally with removed wings to avoid twisting.

An experienced pilot recommends: "I have added small gains to my PT-19 in particularly stressed areas such as the chassis and the engine suspension. These preventive measures have already been paid several times for harder landings."

Frequent questions and problem solutions

In this section we deal with typical questions and problems that the owners of the flight model report as well as their solutions.

Frequent questions:

Question: Is the model suitable for beginners?

Answer: The PT-19 is not designed for absolute beginners. It is aimed at pilots who have already gained experience with simpler models and want to expand their skills. The degree of difficulty is given with Level 3, which requires medium experience.

Question: Can I use a recipient other than the recommended AR637T?

Answer: Yes, any compatible 6+ channel receiver can be used. However, the smart telemetry functions can only be used with compatible spectrum receivers such as the AR637T or AR637TA.

Question: How does a 6S battery affect flight behavior?

Answer: A 6S battery significantly increases the available performance, leading to faster climbing and higher speeds. Note that when using a 6S battery, the included 14x8.5 propeller must be replaced by a 12x6E to not overload the engine.

Typical problems and solutions:

Problem: unstable flight behaviour or tendency to oversteer

Solution: Check the focus and adjust it according to instructions. Reduce the servo paths in your remote control to reduce control sensitivity. For beginners it is recommended to activate dual rate with reduced sensitivity for the first flights.

Problem: Engine running unround or losing power

Solution: Control all electrical connections on a fixed seat. Check the propeller for damage or unbalance. In case of ongoing problems, a calibration of the ESC may be necessary, the procedure of which is described in the instructions.

Problem: Difficulties in mounting the spoon wheel holder

Solution: Some users report problems with the Spornrad holder. Easy adjustment of the mount with fine sanding paper or pre-drilling of the mounting holes with a slightly smaller drill than indicated can help.

A model flyer shares his experience: "When I had problems with an excessively sensitive height lift control, I have not only adapted the servo paths, but also moved the focus slightly forward. This has significantly improved the flight behaviour and the model immediately felt happier."

Conclusion: For whom is the Hangar 9 PT-19 model suitable?

The semi-scale electric aeroplane with the striking yellow-blue colouring represents an excellent choice for model aeroplanes who want to drive the jump from the beginners model to a more demanding but nevertheless good-natured aircraft. The Balsa design not only offers a more authentic flight experience than foam models, but also a higher longevity and better repairability.

With an installation time of less than one hour, pre-installed components and a clear instruction, entry is uncomplicated. Smart technology with telemetry functions provides additional comfort and safety during flight.

The price-performance ratio is to be assessed as good in view of the quality of the installed components and the expected service life. Although there are cheaper alternatives, they can often not keep up with them in terms of quality and durability.

The PT-19 offers an ideal balance for pilots who want to focus on true-scale flying, but at the same time don't want to miss the possibility for simple art flight maneuvers. It is a model that can grow with the pilot and still prepares joy after years.