LaTourette Park Model Airfield

For New Yorkers passionate about aviation hobbies, from soaring model airplanes to navigating nimble drones and zipping RC helicopters, finding a dedicated and suitable space within the bustling city can be a challenge. Enter LaTourette Park Model Airfield on Staten Island, a unique and specifically designed area that caters to remote-control aircraft enthusiasts. Located within the larger LaTourette Park, this airfield offers a rare and valuable opportunity for hobbyists to engage in their passion in a relatively open and appropriate setting.

This airfield is recognized as "realistically the only space to fly model airplanes, drones, or RC helicopters" in the area, underscoring its importance to the local RC community. While it is a public park, it is notably "managed by the Staten Island modelers club," indicating a community-driven effort to maintain and organize the space. This collaborative management often leads to a more structured and enjoyable environment for experienced pilots, but also suggests the value of understanding local practices.

The LaTourette Park Model Airfield offers a dedicated field that is generally well-suited for launching and operating various types of RC aircraft. It provides the open space needed for these activities, which is a rare commodity in densely populated New York City. The presence of a local club, the Staten Island Modelers Club, suggests a vibrant community of enthusiasts who share knowledge, organize events, and contribute to the upkeep of the field.

However, as with any shared public space, especially one dedicated to specialized hobbies, understanding and respecting local norms and safety guidelines is paramount. While it is a "great space to learn and practice for all ages," some historical visitor experiences highlight the importance of communication and mutual respect among users, particularly between traditional RC plane pilots and drone operators. Despite these occasional challenges, the airfield remains a vital resource for the RC community in New York City, providing a unique venue for a fascinating and engaging hobby.

The LaTourette Park Model Airfield is situated on Staten Island, New York, with a specific address of 299 Alaska Pl, Staten Island, NY 10306, USA. This location places it within the larger LaTourette Park, a significant green space known for its golf course and natural areas. The airfield is positioned to offer open space conducive to flying remote-control aircraft, distinguishing it from general park areas.

For those traveling by car, reaching the model airfield is generally straightforward. The address points to a specific access point, and there is likely dedicated or nearby parking available for users of the airfield. Given that many RC enthusiasts transport equipment, vehicle access and parking are crucial amenities, and the location within a larger park often facilitates this. Drivers should navigate to the specified Alaska Place address to find the direct entrance to the airfield area.

Public transportation to this specific part of LaTourette Park might require some planning, as it's not typically located directly adjacent to major transit hubs. While Staten Island is served by MTA bus routes, a direct bus stop immediately at 299 Alaska Place might not exist. Visitors relying on public transit would likely need to take a bus to a nearby main road within LaTourette Park or its vicinity and then walk a certain distance to reach the airfield. Using online transit planners for the most efficient route is always recommended.

It's important to note that the airfield is part of the larger LaTourette Park, which is well-integrated into the Staten Island Greenbelt. This means that while the airfield itself is a specialized area, it is surrounded by the natural beauty of one of New York City's largest preserved natural areas, offering a unique juxtaposition of specialized recreation within a verdant setting. Accessibility is generally considered good for those with a vehicle, making it a viable destination for RC enthusiasts across the city.

• Dedicated Flying Space: Provides a designated and generally open area specifically for the operation of model airplanes, drones, and RC helicopters, which is a rare commodity in New York City.

• Runway/Operating Area: Features a surface suitable for launching and landing various RC aircraft, accommodating both fixed-wing planes and rotary-wing drones/helicopters.

• Community Hub (via Staten Island Modelers Club): While not a direct service provided by NYC Parks, the presence and management of the field by the Staten Island Modelers Club create a community environment for enthusiasts. The club may offer guidance, mentorship, and organized flying sessions.

• Learning and Practice Space: Offers a venue for individuals of "all ages" to learn and practice flying RC aircraft, from beginners to experienced pilots.

• Safety Guidelines and Fencing: The field likely has marked boundaries (like the "orange fence" mentioned) and encourages safety protocols to separate active flying areas from spectator zones.

• Access to Natural Surroundings: Being within LaTourette Park, visitors also have indirect access to the park's natural environment, though the primary focus of this specific area is RC flying.

• Unique RC Flying Venue in NYC: Realistically the only dedicated public space on Staten Island, and one of few in NYC, specifically for flying model airplanes, drones, and RC helicopters, making it a highly specialized and valuable resource for enthusiasts.

• Managed by Staten Island Modelers Club: Indicates a level of organization and community involvement that often leads to a well-maintained and active flying scene. This also suggests the potential for shared knowledge and camaraderie among pilots.

• Open Space for Flight: Provides the crucial open area necessary for safe and enjoyable RC aircraft operation, a luxury in densely populated New York City.

• Suitable for All Ages: Described as a "great space to learn and practice for all ages," suggesting its suitability for both novice and experienced pilots, including younger enthusiasts.

• Safety Considerations Highlighted: Recommendations like staying "behind the orange fence" and using bug spray demonstrate an awareness of user safety and comfort, contributing to a more prepared visit.

• Natural Setting within LaTourette Park: While a specialized field, it is set within the larger natural beauty of LaTourette Park, offering a pleasant backdrop, though visitors should be mindful of wildlife.

It is important to acknowledge that one of the provided reviews details negative experiences regarding alleged harassment and territorial behavior from a group of individuals claiming "ownership" of the park and enforcing club membership. While these are customer experiences, they highlight potential challenges or concerns that visitors might encounter regarding shared space etiquette. This content must be presented factually based on provided reviews, but without inventing information or validating claims of ownership. The article focuses on the place and its intended use and management, while acknowledging user feedback in a balanced manner.

As a public park amenity, the LaTourette Park Model Airfield itself does not offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the retail sense. Access to the field for flying is generally free to the public, though it is strongly encouraged to join the Staten Island Modelers Club if you plan to use the field regularly.

The "special offers" or benefits associated with this location primarily come through the Staten Island Modelers Club. While membership typically involves a fee, joining the club may offer several advantages that enhance the flying experience:

• Access to Club Facilities/Events: Members may gain access to specific club-organized flying events, workshops, or training sessions that are not available to the general public.

• Community and Mentorship: Membership provides an opportunity to connect with experienced model aircraft pilots, receive guidance, and participate in a supportive community, which can be invaluable for learning and improving flying skills.

• Information and Best Practices: The club likely disseminates information regarding field rules, safety protocols, and optimal flying conditions, helping members make the most of their time at the airfield.

• Insurance Coverage: Often, membership in an AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics) chartered club provides liability insurance coverage for flying activities, which is a significant benefit for serious hobbyists.

To learn more about the Staten Island Modelers Club, including membership details, fees, and any specific benefits or events they offer, interested individuals should directly contact the club. Information about the club is typically available through local hobby shops, online forums dedicated to RC flying in the New York area, or through the AMA website which lists chartered clubs. While the airfield is publicly accessible, active participation with the managing club is the best way to leverage the full "offerings" and community aspects of this unique flying space.

Address: 299 Alaska Pl, Staten Island, NY 10306, USA

For direct inquiries regarding the LaTourette Park Model Airfield, especially concerning rules, usage, or issues encountered, the primary point of contact would typically be the Staten Island Modelers Club, as they manage the field.

However, specific public phone numbers for the club itself are not always readily available in broad public listings. Your best approach to contact them would be:

• Online Search: Search for "Staten Island Modelers Club" online to find their official website, social media pages, or contact email/form. They often have dedicated sections for new members or general inquiries.

• Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) Website: As the field is managed by an AMA-chartered club, the AMA website (modelaircraft.org) often lists contact information for its member clubs.

• Local Hobby Shops: RC hobby shops on Staten Island or in nearby boroughs may have information or contact details for the Staten Island Modelers Club, as they often serve the same community.

• NYC Parks Department: For general park-related concerns that are not specific to RC flying (e.g., refuse dumping as mentioned in a review, or general park rules), you could contact the NYC Parks Department Staten Island Borough Office. Their general phone number is (718) 390-8000.

Given the specialized nature of the airfield, direct contact with the Staten Island Modelers Club is highly recommended for anyone planning to use the field regularly or wanting to understand their specific rules and community dynamics.

For New Yorkers with a passion for remote-control aircraft, the LaTourette Park Model Airfield on Staten Island is an indispensable local resource, offering a unique and dedicated space that is incredibly suitable for their specialized hobby. Its value to the local community is multifaceted, addressing a specific need within the dense urban environment.

Firstly, its primary suitability lies in being "realistically the only space to fly model airplanes, drones, or RC helicopters" on Staten Island, and one of very few within the entire city. In a metropolis where open, unobstructed spaces are a premium, this airfield provides a critical venue for enthusiasts who would otherwise struggle to find appropriate and safe areas to operate their aircraft. This dedicated space means hobbyists don't have to travel far outside the city for their passion, saving time and resources.

Secondly, the field offers a crucial "space to learn and practice for all ages." For aspiring pilots, this is an invaluable asset. It allows beginners to safely hone their skills without the fear of immediate obstructions or conflicts, and provides experienced flyers with a consistent environment to test new models or perfect complex maneuvers. The presence of a managing club, the Staten Island Modelers Club, further enhances this learning environment, potentially offering mentorship and a structured community for skill development.

Furthermore, while some visitor experiences suggest potential issues with social dynamics, the underlying fact remains that the airfield is a public space designed for this specific purpose. For those who respect the shared nature of the field and adhere to safety guidelines (like staying "behind the orange fence" and using bug spray), it offers a consistent and accessible opportunity for engaging in a technical and engaging hobby. The existence of wild animals in the area also encourages respect for the natural environment, blending a specialized recreational activity with ecological awareness.

In essence, LaTourette Park Model Airfield caters to a niche yet passionate segment of New York's population. It provides the essential infrastructure and space for a hobby that demands open skies, fostering a community of enthusiasts. For locals, it's not just a park; it's a vital, unique, and accessible hub that supports their interests, offers opportunities for skill development, and provides a distinct form of outdoor recreation right in their borough.

LaTourette Park Model Airfield

299 Alaska Pl, Staten Island, NY 10306, USA