10 Questions featuring Richard Pandis

This week we are featuring expert scale modeler and PCMAC club member, Richard Pandis.  It’s always easy to find Richard at the flight line as he always looks to be surrounded by has own mini German Luftwaffe.   His planes are finely detailed, and he is always willing to share his knowledge on his planes, and the history behind them.  Richard is also a frequent participant at most of the warbird airshows the PVMAC puts on, and his airplanes are always a crowd pleaser.  Also, Be sure to check out the High Quality YouTube Video  below Featuring his ME-2621A Project, produced by PlaneVideoArt Productions.

1. Tell us a little about yourself.
   I am a Federal Agent and currently mobilized with NCIS at GTMO working on the detainee issue.
2. How long have you been flying model airplanes?
   I started flying in 1984 with my neighbor Jeff Fassbinder.
3. What was the first airplane you flew and how did it go?
   Kit built Eagle and Jr. Tiger. Jeff helped me build them back then. We were in 8th grade. ARF’s really didnt exist yet. 
4. How many different airplanes do you think you’ve owned since you started?
   Close to 100 maybe more
5. What is/are your most favorite aspects about being involved in this hobby?
   Im a big History buff. Prefer Luftwaffe subjects. I spend more time researching the aircraft and pilot than anything. I enjoy the history almost as much as the flying. My rule is, no hanger queens…If I build it…I fly it.
6. Tell me about the airplane you enjoy flying most today?
   Right now my favorite is my BVM Electra. Really nothing like EDF power and BVM has it all dialed in.
7. What’s the best memory you have since becoming involed in this hobby?
   The friends I have made in the hobby.
8. What is the biggest mistake you’ve made (in the Hobby), and what did you learn from it?
   Not speaking up when I see a new guy doing something dangerous. Made it a rule to help as many less experienced modelers with basic safety when I can. Seen a few fingers lossed at the field and want to avoid that again.
9. What are you working on now?
   I have a 144″ wingspan TA-152 H-1 Focke Wulf coming out soon. This was the Luftwaffes last fighter of the war. Only about 8 saw combat around Berlin in May 1945. David Pearson is helping on this project. Final aircraft will be “grun 4” flown by Walter Loos. Will be a show stopper when finished.
10. If you could fly in any real airplane, what would it be and why?
    ME-262. My all time favorite jet. Building one and flying it makes me appreciate it all the more.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIBDNSiU6VA