Model airplane engines are very messy. They need fuel, electricity to start, make a lot of noise and have other issues.

One way I tried to simplify everything was with sail planes and slope soaring.

This is still complicated with hi-starts and launch systems.

Also finding good slopes and cliffs was a challenge. You also need specific wind and weather conditions.

One really positive thing is you become very aware of the weather. You get better at predicting it and learn about thermals, birds and so forth.