Overview
The E-flite® SE5a 900mm is the easiest to assemble, most capable, and fun to fly scale model of the iconic WWI fighter that's perfect for intermediate to experienced pilots. Once called the "Spitfire of World War One" and considered by many to be the best British single-seat fighter of the era, the Royal Aircraft Factory (RAF) SE5 was instrumental in regaining and maintaining allied air superiority in mid-1917. It's one of the most recognisable aircraft of the period, and six manufacturers constructed more than 5,000 examples. This new E-flite design brings that legendary fighter to life with unmatched scale detail, modern-day conveniences, features, and technologies whilst delivering unexpected levels of flight performance that will surprise even experienced pilots.
As a Plug-N-Play (PNP) brushless RC aircraft, the SE5a 900mm arrives with factory-installed electronics ready to fly. Unlike traditional build kits requiring extensive assembly, this ready-to-fly RC model uses bolt-and-snap construction that takes less than one hour to assemble—no glue or special tools required. The neatly sized biplane with a 900mm wingspan stores easily, transports conveniently to parks, sports fields and RC flying clubs, and is small enough that you can fly without disassembly at large outdoor spaces. Whether you're searching for a brushless RC aircraft for intermediate flyers or an experienced pilot looking for scale authenticity combined with modern performance, the SE5a 900mm delivers on every front.
Inspired by the original ParkZone model, the E-flite SE5a 900mm features an all-new design that includes more scale detail along with modern-day features and technologies to deliver an unmatched flying experience with surprising capabilities and performance. It bolts and snaps together in almost no time, making it one of the easiest scale RC aircraft to prepare for flight. The faithful scale touches combine with everyday practicality—a large, top-mounted battery hatch simplifies pack changes, whilst large main wheels and a hidden steerable tailwheel help the model operate from paved, dirt, and some closely cut grass surfaces.
Key Features
- All-new design with enhanced scale detail — This completely redesigned model offers more authentic scale proportions and appearance than its predecessor, combining historical accuracy with modern engineering standards that make it instantly recognisable as the legendary RAF SE5a fighter aircraft.
- Specially tuned brushless motor compatible with 3S and 4S batteries — The dedicated 3513-1100Kv 14-pole brushless outrunner motor is specially calibrated to deliver optimal performance across both 3S 11.1V and 4S 14.8V battery voltages without requiring any modifications or upgrades, giving you flexibility in choosing your battery setup based on desired flight characteristics.
- Factory-installed Spektrum Avian 45-Amp Smart Lite ESC — The intelligent electronic speed controller provides real-time telemetry data including battery voltage, current draw, RPM, and other vital flight information via compatible Spektrum receivers and transmitters, allowing you to monitor your aircraft's performance and battery health throughout your flight session.
- Four Spektrum digital metal-geared servos pre-installed — Precise, reliable servo control comes factory-fitted, eliminating the need to source and install servos yourself; the metal gears provide durability for consistent, accurate control throughout your flying experience.
- Fast and easy snap plus bolt-together assembly — The innovative construction system requires no glue, epoxy, or special tools—simply snap pieces together and bolt components in place; the entire assembly process takes less than one hour, getting you airborne quickly without complex build steps.
- Large, convenient top-mounted battery hatch — Easy-access battery compartment design allows you to quickly swap between multiple LiPo packs or change your battery during flying sessions at the field, without disassembling the aircraft or using tools.
- Large main wheels plus hidden steerable tailwheel — The landing gear configuration features substantial main wheels paired with a retractable tailwheel, enabling the model to operate from paved surfaces, dirt airstrips, and some closely cut grass fields, expanding your flying location options significantly.
- Plug-N-Play completion level with minimal additional requirements — As a PNP aircraft, everything except the radio system, receiver, battery, and charger arrives ready to fly; the motor, ESC, and servos are all factory-installed and tested, dramatically reducing setup time compared to traditional kit aircraft.
- EPO foam construction for durability and repairability — The aircraft body is constructed from EPO (expanded polypropylene) foam, which provides excellent crash resistance, is lightweight for optimal flight performance, and is relatively easy to repair if minor damage occurs during operation.
Technical Performance
The E-flite SE5a 900mm delivers impressive performance characteristics that belie its scale heritage. Powered by a dedicated 3513-1100Kv 14-pole brushless outrunner motor installed at the factory, this aircraft provides responsive acceleration and stable climb performance whether you're running 3S 11.1V or 4S 14.8V LiPo batteries in the 2200 to 3200mAh capacity range. The Spektrum Avian 45-Amp Smart Lite brushless ESC manages power delivery efficiently whilst providing real-time telemetry feedback to compatible transmitters, allowing you to monitor battery voltage, current draw, and RPM throughout your flight. The 10 x 5 inch propeller is optimised for this motor and battery combination, delivering the perfect balance of thrust and efficiency for scale flying and sport manoeuvres alike. Four factory-installed Spektrum digital metal-geared servos provide the precision control essential for accurate aerobatic flying and smooth scale movements. The aircraft weighs 1084 grammes without battery and 1303 grammes with a recommended battery installed, positioning it squarely in the intermediate to advanced flying category. The 899mm wingspan and 716mm length make it manageable for transport and storage whilst providing enough surface area for excellent stability and control authority. Centre of gravity is set at 72mm ± 5mm from the leading edge, ensuring balanced, predictable flight characteristics. The airframe's EPO foam construction combines lightweight properties with robust durability, capable of absorbing minor impacts whilst remaining rigid enough for precise handling. This combination of modern electronics, scale authenticity, and practical engineering makes the SE5a 900mm one of the most capable WWI scale aircraft available in its size class, suitable for intermediate to experienced RC aircraft pilots seeking both performance and historical fidelity.
What's in the Box
- E-flite SE5a 900mm airframe with factory-installed electronics
- Spektrum brushless outrunner motor (model 3513-1100Kv 14-pole, installed)
- Four Spektrum digital metal-geared servos (installed)
- Spektrum Avian 45-Amp Smart Lite brushless ESC (installed)
- 10 x 5 inch propeller
- Complete product manual with assembly and operation instructions
What You Need to Complete
- Full-range 4+ channel transmitter and receiver compatible with Spektrum protocol (sold separately)
- 3S 11.1V or 4S 14.8V LiPo battery pack in the 2200–3200mAh capacity range with EC3 or IC3 connector (sold separately)
- Compatible LiPo battery charger with support for EC3 or IC3 connectors (sold separately)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the E-flite SE5a 900mm suitable for intermediate RC aircraft pilots? — Yes, this model is specifically designed for intermediate to experienced pilots. With a Skill Level rating of 3 (intermediate), it offers more challenges and performance capabilities than beginner models whilst remaining manageable for pilots who have experience with RC aircraft. The PNP format eliminates complex building steps, allowing you to focus on flying. However, you will need basic knowledge of RC systems, including how to bind a receiver to a transmitter and proper battery charging safety procedures.
- What battery does the SE5a 900mm require and how long will it fly? — The aircraft requires a 3S 11.1V or 4S 14.8V LiPo battery pack in the 2200 to 3200mAh capacity range, with either an EC3 or IC3 connector. The 3S batteries deliver more conservative flight times with adequate performance, whilst 4S batteries provide increased power and performance at the cost of faster power consumption. Flight times typically range from 15 to 25 minutes depending on your flying style, battery capacity, and selected voltage, with the larger 3200mAh packs offering longer endurance than the 2200mAh options.
- What radio system does this aircraft need? — The SE5a 900mm requires a full-range 4+ channel transmitter and receiver system. Spektrum radios (including DSMX and DSM2 protocols) work perfectly with this model and are recommended for optimal compatibility, though other quality RC radio systems with compatible receivers can also be used. The aircraft requires at least 4 channels for basic control (throttle, aileron, elevator, rudder), though having additional channels is beneficial for flap control and other features if your radio supports them.
- How long does assembly take and what tools are needed? — Approximate assembly time is less than one hour, making this one of the quickest RC aircraft to prepare for flight. The snap and bolt-together construction requires no glue, epoxy, or adhesives. You'll need basic hand tools—primarily a screwdriver and possibly an Allen key—but no special RC-specific tools or technical expertise is required. Detailed instructions are included in the product manual to guide you through every step of assembly.
- Can I use this aircraft at public parks or does it require a dedicated RC flying field? — The SE5a 900mm is specifically designed for versatility in flying locations. Its 900mm wingspan and lightweight construction make it suitable for flying at large parks, sports fields, and open spaces, though you should always check local regulations regarding RC aircraft operation. It will also perform excellently at dedicated RC flying clubs and airfields where you have more space and airtime. The large main wheels and steerable tailwheel allow operation from paved surfaces, dirt areas, and some closely cut grass, expanding your location options compared to aircraft requiring prepared runways.
- What is the difference between the PNP version and other E-flite SE5a variants? — The PNP (Plug-N-Play) version arrives with the motor, ESC, and servos all factory-installed and tested, requiring only the addition of a radio receiver, battery, and charger before flying. This differs from RTF (Ready-to-Fly) versions which include a radio system, and from kit versions which require you to assemble and install all electronics yourself. The PNP format offers a middle ground—eliminating complex electronic installation whilst allowing you to choose your preferred radio system.
- Is this aircraft capable of aerobatic flying or is it purely scale-orientated? — Whilst the SE5a 900mm is designed with scale fidelity and appearance as primary goals, its modern brushless power system and four-servo control architecture make it entirely capable of sport flying and moderate aerobatics. You can perform standard manoeuvres including loops, rolls, and stalls, though the design philosophy emphasises scale appearance and stable flying characteristics rather than extreme aerobatic performance. This makes it ideal for pilots who want historical authenticity combined with engaging flight characteristics.
- What is the recommended centre of gravity (CG) and why is it important? — The centre of gravity should be set at 72mm ± 5mm from the leading edge of the wing. This CG range is critical for safe, predictable flight—an incorrect CG can cause instability, poor handling, or even loss of control. The battery placement and weight distribution are key to achieving proper balance. The manual includes detailed guidance on verifying and adjusting CG before your first flight.
Why Buy from RC Model Shop?
RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the EFL S.E.5a 900mm PNP today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.
