READING the wind and planning the best flight path come as second nature now for RJ Llewellyn who, at just 10-years-old, is already making his mark in the world of model aeroplanes.
RJ oozes confidence and has a real passion for aviation.
His dad Ron and two of his older brothers are pilots, so a love for the skies is inevitable.
RJ has been travelling Australia with his dad and spent the last few months on the Fraser Coast, where his interest in model aeroplanes soared.
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Under the watch of his dad and other local model aeroplane enthusiasts, RJ’s reputation in the game started to take off.
After a few months of learning the intricacies of model aeroplane flying, RJ was awarded his bronze wings by the Model Aeronautical Association of Queensland.
“I have a lot of fun when I’m flying,” said RJ.
“I practice whenever I can and it keeps me outside, I definitely prefer flying to watching TV,” he continued.
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To earn his bronze wings, RJ had to present his skills to the association.
Part of the assessment included aviation theory, identifying and knowing the functions of the aircraft’s different parts, pre-flight checks, taking off and landing and in-flight turns and procedures, among other things.
RJ was also required to perform a successful emergency landing.
All the different components of the assessment had to be performed to a specific standard for RJ to earn the award.
“He did really well under the conditions and to have achieved his bronze wings at such a young age is a really great achievement,” said a very proud Ron.
The search is now on to see if there are any other kids RJ’s age or younger who have achieved their bronze wings.
While he is still unsure what the future holds, RJ is certain model aeroplanes will feature in some way.
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He also enjoys maintaining his model aeroplane, maths and has a passion in military history.
When not flying, RJ can be found on the computer practicing his aviation skills on a flight simulator.