E-flite Apprentice STS 1.5m RTF Radio Control Airplane Smart Trainer with SAFE - Enhanced Safety and Stability

Is the E-flite Apprentice STS 1.5m a good airplane for a complete beginner?

Yes. It is built as a beginner trainer and uses exclusive SAFE technology with Beginner, Intermediate, and Experienced flight modes that help prevent crashes and build confidence. The large 1.5m wingspan adds stability and visibility, and the durable EPO airframe withstands minor bumps, making it well suited to first-time RC pilots.

What comes in the package and is it ready to fly?

It comes ready to fly with everything you need to get started except the flight battery and charger, which you purchase separately. The airframe arrives with a factory-installed brushless motor, a telemetry-capable ESC, and servos, so you can spend your time learning to fly rather than building and wiring components.

Does it include a battery and charger?

No. The flight battery and a compatible charger are the two items not included, so you add them separately before your first flight. Everything else needed to get started is included in the box. Choosing a quality battery and matching charger helps you get reliable, safe flights while you learn. Click for Price.

What is SAFE technology and how does it help me learn?

SAFE is built-in stabilization that offers three selectable flight modes called Beginner, Intermediate, and Experienced. It helps prevent the mistakes that typically cause new pilots to crash, so the airplane is more forgiving while you build skills and confidence. This assistance is a core reason the Apprentice STS is such a popular first trainer.

What are the three flight modes?

The airplane offers Beginner, Intermediate, and Experienced modes. Beginner mode provides the most assistance to keep flights stable and forgiving while you learn the basics. Intermediate mode gives you more control as your skills grow. Experienced mode is for full manual flying once you are confident, so the airplane grows with your ability.

What are the size and shipping dimensions?

The Apprentice STS has a 1.5 meter wingspan, which is about 59 inches, giving it excellent visibility and stable handling. The larger size also helps it handle a range of wind conditions while you learn. The shipping box measures roughly 30 by 18 by 8 inches, so allow space for delivery and storage.

How much assembly is required before the first flight?

Very little. Assembly is quick and easy with no glue or special tools required, because the motor, ESC, servos, and electronics are factory installed. Most pilots can have the airplane built and ready in a short session, then charge a battery, head to the field, and focus on flying rather than construction.

Can the Apprentice STS perform aerobatics?

Yes, as your skills progress. In the higher flight modes you can explore aerobatic maneuvers such as loops, rolls, and inverted flight. Beginners can stay in the assisted modes to learn safely, then move toward fuller control when ready. This means the airplane stays fun and useful well beyond your very first flights.

What are the optional SAFE Plus GPS and Landing Assist Sensor upgrades?

These are optional add-ons that increase assistance. SAFE Plus adds GPS-enabled features for extra stability and protection, and the Landing Assist Sensor, or LAS, helps make landings easier. They are useful if you want even more help while learning to fly and land. Both are optional, so you can add them whenever you choose.

What kind of motor and power system does it use?

It uses a brushless motor paired with a telemetry-capable electronic speed control, or ESC, for smooth and reliable performance. The telemetry capability can report flight data to compatible equipment, which is helpful for monitoring your power system and keeping flights safe as you gain experience. This setup needs little maintenance compared with older brushed designs.

Is the Apprentice STS durable enough to survive learning mistakes?

It is designed with that in mind. The airframe uses tough yet lightweight EPO foam construction that withstands the minor bumps common while learning. Combined with the SAFE assistance that helps prevent crashes, this durability helps the airplane last through the early learning curve so you get lasting enjoyment rather than a quick replacement.