The Coachella Valley Radio Control Club (CVRC) #2458 is an AMA Gold Leader Club and one of the oldest model clubs in the United States. The club traces its roots to 1938 when a loose-knit group of free flight model aircraft enthusiasts began meeting on a weekly basis at the now-defunct La Quinta Airport. Currently, the club hosts around 140 members and their flying site is now located on 240 acres provided by the Bureau of Reclamation in Thermal, California.
The field includes a 70′ x 865′ asphault runway, concrete pit area with shade, a separate helicopter/control line pad, and portable restroom facilities. With the help of the FAA and AMA Government Relations, the club was able to obtain their FRIA status that includes a 900' altitude limit dawn to dusk every day with the option to increase their altitude limit to 2000' upon formal request. The club utilizes this exception for soaring and jet events held at their flying site.
CVRC is active with many flying events. Their "Coachella Jet Jam" has been very popular in past years. Several videos from this event can be found on YouTube (see link below) and on their page. This past November, they held a "Badge Day / Toys for Tots" described as "Paintball, Carrier landing and more fun! Bring an un-wrapped $15 toy or cash donation for our annual Toys for Tots drive." This month, they are hosting "2024 Winter Aerotow" to invite members & guests to watch gliders of various sizes fly off of RC tow planes. In January 2025, they'll host their "CVRC Club Auction" and "13th Annual Desert Warbirds" events.
CVRC strives to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for our members and the community to enjoy the hobby of model aircraft flying, and to provide exposure to model aviation and the broader fields of science and technology through hosting and participation in local events and outreach to local schools and community organizations.
