E-flite Apprentice STS 1.5m Review: Why the AMA’s Official Trainer Dominates the Beginner Market

The AMA’s official trainer combines bulletproof SAFE technology, crash-resistant EPO construction, and smart telemetry to transform nervous beginners into confident pilots—but skip the GPS module.

Breaking into the RC aircraft hobby can feel like a gamble. New pilots routinely invest hundreds of dollars only to watch their new aircraft end up “in pieces” after a “severe crash” on the maiden flight. That fear of catastrophic failure, combined with a “confusing jumble of unknown words and acronyms” surrounding the technology, keeps many would-be aviators grounded.

The E-flite Apprentice STS 1.5m aims to eliminate that anxiety entirely. This isn’t just another trainer claiming to be beginner-friendly—it’s the “Official Trainer of the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA)” and carries the designation “Gold Standard for RTF RC Trainer Planes.” After analyzing this aircraft’s capabilities, construction, and real-world user feedback, I can confirm that reputation is well-earned. The Apprentice STS delivers on its promise of confidence-building flight training, though prospective buyers should understand exactly what they’re getting—and what optional features they should probably skip.

AT A GLANCE

• Model: Apprentice STS 1.5m
• Manufacturer: E-flite (Horizon Hobby)
• Product Number: EFL3750 (BNF Basic)
• Skill Level: Level 1 (Beginner) – No experience required
• Wingspan: 59.0 in. (1500mm)
• Length: 42.5 in. (1080mm)
• Flying Weight: 49.0 oz. (1390g)
• Wing Area: 515 sq. in. (33.2 sq. dm)
• Material: Durable EPO Construction
• Motor: 840Kv Brushless Outrunner (Installed)
• ESC: 30-Amp Smart Brushless (Installed)
• Receiver: Spektrum 4650 Serial Receiver (Installed)
• Flight Controller: Spektrum 3230 Flight Controller (Installed)
• Servos: (4) 37g Standard, (2) 13g Digital MG (Installed)
• Propeller: 11×8 Electric
• Landing Gear: Wide-stance tricycle w/ steerable nose wheel
• Recommended Battery: 11.1V 3200mAh 3S 30C Smart LiPo (IC3)
• Assembly Time: Less than 1 Hour
• Assembly Required: Yes (No glue or special tools)
• Price: $329.99 (BNF Basic)
• Radio Required: Full-Range 6+ Channel Spektrum DSMX/DSM2 Compatible

Unique Features

The Apprentice STS represents a “modern-day evolution” of the legendary Apprentice S 15e, a platform that has trained countless RC pilots over the years. What makes the STS version special is its integration of Spektrum’s Smart Technology while retaining everything that made the original platform successful.

Right out of the box, you’ll notice this is a substantial aircraft. That 59-inch wingspan isn’t a drawback—it’s one of the plane’s greatest assets. Beginners often gravitate toward smaller, cheaper micro planes, but those models are notoriously “twitchy” and difficult to control in anything other than dead calm conditions. The Apprentice’s “large size” provides “inherently stable design,” outstanding visibility at distance, and the mass necessary to “handle more wind” than smaller trainers. This translates directly into more flyable days per season.

The airframe construction uses tough yet lightweight EPO foam that can absorb the inevitable training mishaps. The wing attaches to the fuselage using rubber bands—a seemingly low-tech approach that’s actually brilliant engineering. During crashes, particularly “cartwheel” impacts, the rubber bands allow the wing to pop off, absorbing and deflecting impact energy that would otherwise snap the wing spar or crack the fuselage.

A wide-stance tricycle landing gear with steerable nose wheel makes ground handling approachable for new pilots. This configuration provides far more stability during taxi, takeoff, and landing than tail-dragger designs, eliminating one more source of frustration during the learning process.

All electronics come factory-installed: the 840Kv brushless outrunner motor, 30-Amp Smart ESC, Spektrum 4650 receiver, 3230 flight controller, and six servos (four standard 37g units and two 13g digital metal-gear servos). Assembly requires “less than 1 Hour” with “no glue or special tools required.”

The 3-Mode SAFE System: Your Digital Flight Instructor

SAFE (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) technology is the heart of what makes the Apprentice STS such an effective trainer. This isn’t an optional add-on—it’s built into the core platform and provides three distinct, switchable flight modes:

Beginner Mode (Position 0): Maximum assistance. The system imposes strict pitch and bank angle limits, making it physically impossible to over-control the plane into a dive or severe roll. Release the sticks, and the aircraft automatically returns to stable, level flight. This mode also provides assisted takeoff and landing.

Intermediate Mode (Position 1): The training wheels come partially off. Pitch and bank angle limits expand, allowing for larger maneuvers. Self-leveling remains active but less intrusive, granting more freedom while maintaining a safety net.

Experienced Mode (Position 2): Full manual control. All self-leveling and angle limits are disabled, providing complete 4-channel authority. In this mode, the Apprentice reveals its aerobatic potential.

Supplementing these modes is the “Panic Button”—a genuine lifesaver. When a pilot becomes disoriented in any flight mode, pressing and holding this button causes the SAFE system to immediately return the aircraft to stable, level flight.

What makes this system exceptional is how pilots actually use it in the real world. Videos from users show the pattern: a pilot switches to Experienced Mode to attempt a loop or roll, gets disoriented, and instantly switches back to Beginner Mode. The system “levels the plane right back out,” preventing crashes before they happen. This creates a high-consequence-free environment where pilots can push their limits, retreat to safety, and build genuine confidence through progressive skill development.

Smart Technology: Real-Time Battery Intelligence

The factory-installed Spektrum 30-Amp Smart ESC provides more than motor control. When paired with a compatible Spektrum transmitter (DXS, DX6e, NX series, etc.), it transmits real-time telemetry data back to the pilot, including motor RPM, current draw, and—most critically—flight battery voltage.

This feature solves one of the most common ways beginners lose their aircraft. New pilots have no innate sense of remaining battery capacity. They fly until the plane’s Low Voltage Cutoff (LVC) engages, which cuts motor power to protect the battery. If this happens far from the landing strip, the result is often an uncontrolled deadstick landing and a damaged or lost plane.

Smart Telemetry provides audible and visual alerts on the transmitter before LVC engages, warning pilots to land immediately. Think of it as a “check engine light” that prevents battery-related crashes—a genuinely valuable safety feature rather than marketing fluff.

To maximize this technology, Horizon Hobby encourages use of Spektrum “Smart” batteries and “Smart” chargers. This positions the Apprentice as an entry point into their vertically integrated ecosystem—transmitter, battery, charger, and airframe all working together with IC3/EC3 connectors.

Construction and Durability: Designed to be Repaired

Let’s be honest: beginners crash. The Apprentice STS accepts this reality and turns it into a design philosophy.

The “Durable EPO construction that’s tough yet lightweight” handles impacts that would destroy lesser airframes. The rubber-band wing attachment system isn’t old-school cheapness—it’s intentional crash resistance. When the wing pops off during impact, that energy gets absorbed rather than transmitted into structural failure.

Complementing the durable construction is a “full line of replacement/spare parts available” from all major hobby retailers. Wings, tail sets, propellers, landing gear components—all are readily available at reasonable prices. The aircraft is literally designed for long-term ownership with straightforward repair procedures.

The wide-stance landing gear, steerable nose wheel, and tricycle configuration provide stable ground handling characteristics. New pilots already have enough challenges learning to control the aircraft in the air; the Apprentice eliminates ground-handling as a source of frustration.

The Controversial Optional Upgrades: Skip the GPS

The Apprentice STS is heavily marketed with an “upgrade path” to add optional, “sold separately” modules:

GPS Module (SAFE Plus): Adds “AutoLand” (the plane lands itself), “Virtual Fence” (prevents the plane from flying beyond a set distance), and “Holding Pattern” (makes the plane circle a fixed GPS coordinate).

Landing Assist Sensor (LAS): An optical sensor that works with AutoLand to detect the ground and “flare” the plane for a “picture perfect landing.”

Marketing presents these as the ultimate solution for nervous beginners. The reality from the experienced user community tells a different story.

Users on forums like RCGroups report significant skepticism. People were “moaning that the GPS module creates more problems than it solves potentially.” The “Virtual Fence” feature reportedly takes control away from pilots unexpectedly, creating disorientation and frustration rather than confidence.

Here’s the philosophical difference: the core 3-mode SAFE system assists the pilot, helping them learn while providing a safety net. The optional GPS system automates for the pilot, removing the learning component entirely. The community consensus is that automation like AutoLand is a “gewgaw” (a showy but useless trinket) that prevents beginners from learning actual skills like throttle management and landing technique.

The strong recommendation from experienced RC pilots: a “buddy box” and human instructor are infinitely more valuable—and more reliable—than these optional automation features.

Pros & Cons

Pros

The “Gold Standard” Trainer: Official Trainer of the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA), built upon the proven Apprentice S 15e platform. This isn’t marketing hyperbole—it’s a “club standard” endorsement from the premier model aviation organization.

Brilliant 3-Mode SAFE Training System: The Beginner/Intermediate/Experienced flight modes with Panic Button create a genuinely effective, confidence-building progression system. This technology works as advertised and actively prevents the catastrophic maiden-flight crashes that drive beginners from the hobby.

Exceptionally Stable and Wind-Capable: The 59-inch wingspan and high-wing design provide inherent stability. The “large size” makes the aircraft highly visible at distance and allows it to “handle more wind” than smaller, “twitchy” micro trainers. More wind tolerance means more flying days.

Durable, Repairable, Crash-Survivable: Tough EPO foam construction, rubber-band wing attachment, and wide-stance tricycle landing gear mean this airframe survives the training process. When crashes occur, replacement parts are readily available from major hobby retailers.

Grows with the Pilot: The powerful brushless motor and Experienced flight mode unlock full 4-channel aerobatics: “aerobatic maneuvers including loops, rolls, inverted (upside down) flight and more.” This isn’t a plane you’ll outgrow in a month.

Cons

Controversial Optional GPS/LAS Modules: The heavily marketed GPS and Landing Assist Sensor are viewed skeptically by experienced users. Reports indicate these add-ons “create more problems than [they] solve” and are no substitute for simulator training and human instruction.

Potential Quality Control Reports: Some forum users have reported specific issues including “horizontal stab flutter” at high speeds and intermittent electronic issues like “brown outs” or component failures. Not widespread, but worth noting.

Premium Pricing: As the “Gold Standard,” it carries a premium price point. The $329.99 BNF Basic cost (without transmitter, battery, or charger) represents significant investment compared to budget alternatives.

Spektrum Ecosystem Lock-in: To utilize Smart telemetry features fully, users are guided toward Spektrum transmitters, Smart batteries, and IC3/EC3 connectors—a proprietary ecosystem that limits component choices.

Requires Dedicated Flying Field: This is NOT a park flyer. The 59-inch wingspan requires a “safe open area” such as an AMA-sanctioned flying field. Backyard or small-park flying is not feasible.

Why You’ll Simply Love this Plane

The Apprentice STS 1.5m delivers on something that sounds simple but proves remarkably difficult: it makes your first flight a success rather than a disaster.

When new pilots describe their Apprentice experiences, the language is consistently emotional and positive. They describe an “absolute blast” and the powerful confidence boost from achieving their “first full flight day” or pulling off their “first loop.” This is a plane that pilots grow to trust, describing it in affectionate terms like a “puppy dog” or a “gentle lady” in the air.

That gentle nature doesn’t mean boring or limited. Users are consistently “impressed” with its performance capabilities. When you’re ready to push boundaries, switching to Experienced Mode unlocks a full range of aerobatic maneuvers. Landings become “silky smooth.” Stability remains rock-solid even when you’re learning the edges of the flight envelope.

This aircraft fulfills the manufacturer’s promise of “deliver[ing] WOW moments.” The joy comes not from automation doing the work, but from the pilot actually learning skills in a forgiving, confidence-building environment. When you stick that first landing, when you complete that first roll, when you successfully recover from a disorienting moment by hitting the Panic Button and seeing the system save your aircraft—those are genuine achievements that build real competence.

The Apprentice STS transforms the beginner experience from anxiety and fear of expensive failure into progressive skill-building with appropriate safety nets. That’s worth celebrating.

Who Should Buy It

The Ideal Beginner: Club-Based Learner

This is the Apprentice’s sweet spot. If you’ve joined a local AMA club and will be learning “with an instructor at an RC flying field,” this aircraft is specifically designed for your situation. The SAFE system complements instructor oversight perfectly, and the aircraft’s durability withstands the mistakes that are part of proper training.

RC Club Training Programs

The Apprentice STS is designed for “experienced pilots that teach others to fly” and “club training programs.” Its AMA endorsement, durability, parts availability, and 3-mode system make it an obvious choice for club-owned training fleets.

The Disciplined Self-Learner

Even without club access, this aircraft works for pilots willing to approach learning properly. The key: first invest time in the RealFlight RC flight simulator to build basic skills, as recommended by countless experienced pilots. Then transition to the Apprentice STS as your first real-world aircraft. The combination of simulator experience and the SAFE system’s forgiveness creates a viable path to success.

The Spektrum Ecosystem Pilot

If you already own a Spektrum transmitter and a collection of 3S batteries with IC3/EC3 connectors, the BNF Basic version represents excellent value. You’re adding a proven, stable airframe to an existing equipment collection.

Who Should NOT Buy This Plane

• Small-Space Flyers: If your only flying area is a small backyard or local park, the 59-inch wingspan makes this aircraft inappropriate. The HobbyZone AeroScout S2 or similar smaller trainers would be better choices for confined spaces.
• Speed and 3D Seekers: If your immediate goal is maximum speed or advanced 3D aerobatics, the Apprentice is a trainer first. It CAN perform aerobatics in Experienced Mode, but it’s not designed as a primary aerobatic platform.

Pricing and Value Assessment

Understanding the different Apprentice STS versions is crucial for making the right purchase decision:

EFL3750 (BNF Basic): $329.99

This is the version analyzed here. It includes the complete airframe with all electronics installed but NO transmitter, battery, or charger. This represents the cost of the platform, not the cost to get airborne.

EFL370001 (RTF Basic): $369.99

Includes a Spektrum DXS transmitter but still requires separate battery and charger purchase.

EFL3700 (Full RTF): ~$399.99

The complete all-in-one package: transmitter, Spektrum Smart battery, and Spektrum Smart charger included.

True Cost Analysis for the BNF Basic (EFL3750)

A beginner starting from zero needs:

• Transmitter: Starting at $299.99 (Spektrum DX6e)
• Battery: 3S 3200mAh Smart LiPo at $56.99
• Charger: Basic Smart charger at $25.99

This makes the true entry cost significantly higher than the $329.99 airframe price. For brand-new pilots with no existing equipment, the Full RTF package (EFL3700) offers superior package value.

The BNF Basic version (EFL3750) is the right choice ONLY if you already own a compatible Spektrum transmitter, 3S batteries, and a LiPo charger.

Is the Premium Price Justified?

Yes. The “Gold Standard” price buys more than EPO foam. It purchases:

• Proven, sophisticated SAFE technology that actually works
• AMA endorsement and decades of platform evolution
• Extreme durability and repair-by-design philosophy
• Future-proofing for full aerobatic capability
• An investment in a platform that will teach you to fly successfully

Compared to cheaper alternatives that may lead to frustration, damaged aircraft, and quitting the hobby, the Apprentice STS represents genuine value for serious beginners.

Critical Pre-Purchase Information (EFL3750 BNF Basic)

THE MOST IMPORTANT DETAIL: “BNF Basic” is easily misunderstood. “BNF” (Bind-N-Fly) traditionally means “everything except transmitter.” However, “BNF Basic” means the model “does not include a battery or charger” either. A buyer expecting to need only a transmitter will be disappointed when the box arrives.

To Make the EFL3750 Airworthy, You Must Purchase:

1. Transmitter: “Full-Range 6+ Channel Spektrum DSMX/DSM2 Compatible 2.4GHz Transmitter”
2. Battery: “3200mAh 3S 11.1V LiPo Battery with EC3 or IC3 Connector”
3. Charger: “3S 11.1V LiPo Compatible Charger”

Space Requirements

This cannot be overstated: the 59-inch wingspan requires a large, open flying field. An AMA-sanctioned club field is ideal. Small parks, backyards, and confined areas are NOT suitable for this aircraft.

Version Comparison Table

Feature	EFL3750 (BNF Basic)	EFL370001 (RTF Basic)	EFL3700 (Full RTF)
Price	$329.99	$369.99	~$399.99
Airframe w/ Electronics	Included	Included	Included
Transmitter	NOT Included	Included (DXS)	Included (DXS/DXe)
Flight Battery	NOT Included	NOT Included	Included (Smart)
Battery Charger	NOT Included	NOT Included	Included (Smart)
Ideal User	Pilot with existing Spektrum gear	Beginner choosing own battery/charger	True beginner needing everything

First Flight: Assembly and Critical Setup

Assembly Process

Assembly takes “Less than 1 Hour” with “Quick and easy” procedures requiring “no glue or special tools.” The main wing attaches with eight included rubber bands—the correct, intended design for durability.

CRITICAL PROPELLER NOTE: The propeller nut is reverse-threaded. This catches many new builders. You must “Turn the prop nut counter-clockwise to tighten it.” User videos document propellers departing on takeoff because builders tightened the nut in the wrong direction.

Mandatory Pre-Flight Checklist

Based on official Quick Start documentation:

1. Location: Large, open field with no people, trees, or obstacles.
2. Weather: Calm day. Do NOT attempt maiden flight in high winds.
3. Battery: Install 3S 3200mAh battery securely with included straps.
4. Power-On Sequence (MANDATORY):
   • Turn TRANSMITTER ON first
   • Place aircraft on level ground
   • Turn AIRCRAFT ON second
   • Wait for system initialization (servos will buzz)
5. Pre-Flight Control Check: Verify Elevator, Aileron, and Rudder move freely and correctly.
6. SAFE System Test (MANDATORY):
   • Set flight mode switch to Beginner Mode
   • Physically tilt the plane onto its side (roll it)
   • You MUST see ailerons deflect in the opposite direction as the system tries to self-level
   • DO NOT FLY if this test fails
7. Range Test: Perform radio system range test per transmitter manual.

Pro Tips

• Use RealFlight Simulator First: Practice on the simulator before your first real-world flight.
• Trimming: Any trim adjustments are best made while flying in Experienced Mode (Mode 2).
• Flight Timer: Set a 5-10 minute flight timer. Land BEFORE low-voltage cutoff forces you to.

Final Verdict

Summary

The E-flite Apprentice STS 1.5m earns its “gold standard” reputation through a combination of proven design philosophy and modern technology integration. Its 1.5-meter, high-wing airframe provides inherent stability that builds confidence rather than anxiety. The 3-mode SAFE system creates a genuinely effective, progressive training environment with real safety nets. Durable EPO construction and repair-by-design philosophy acknowledge that crashes are part of learning and ensure the airframe survives the process.

Clear Recommendation

The recommendation is an unqualified YES for the target audience—with one critical caveat.

The Caveat

The recommendation applies to the core aircraft and its 3-mode SAFE system. New pilots should strongly consider SKIPPING the optional, “sold separately” GPS (SAFE Plus) and LAS modules. Data from the experienced hobbyist community is clear: these add-ons can be problematic, “create more problems than [they] solve,” and represent poor substitutes for two things that actually create competent pilots: practice on a flight simulator and in-person instruction from an experienced pilot at a club.

Ideal Buyer

The new pilot learning with an instructor at an RC club, or the disciplined self-learner who has invested time in simulator training first.

Which Version to Buy

Brand new, no equipment: Buy the Full RTF (EFL3700). It includes transmitter, battery, and charger—everything needed in one box.

Already own Spektrum transmitter, batteries, and charger: Buy the BNF Basic (EFL3750). The most cost-effective way to add this proven platform to an existing fleet.

The E-flite Apprentice STS 1.5m is “the best plane that I can think of for any beginner.” It’s earned that assessment through design excellence, proven technology, and a track record of successfully teaching new pilots to fly. The premium price buys a premium experience—one where your first flight becomes a success story rather than an expensive disaster.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the difference between the RTF and BNF Basic (EFL3750) versions?

A: RTF (Ready-To-Fly) EFL3700 includes everything: transmitter, battery, and charger. The BNF Basic (EFL3750) is the least complete package—it requires you to buy a compatible Spektrum transmitter, a 3S LiPo battery, and a charger separately.

Q: Do I need the optional GPS or Landing Assist Sensor (LAS)?

A: No. The experienced hobbyist community reports the GPS module can “create more problems than it solves” and that these features are “unnecessary.” Learning with a simulator and an instructor is a much better path than relying on automation.

Q: What battery should I buy for the BNF Basic?

A: The recommended battery is a Spektrum 11.1V 3200mAh 3S 30C Smart LiPo with an IC3 connector. However, other 3S LiPo batteries ranging from 2200mAh to 3700mAh will work, provided they fit, have similar weight, and allow proper Center of Gravity (CG) balance. You may need an XT60 to IC3 adapter for non-Spektrum batteries.

Q: Can I fly this in my backyard or local park?

A: No. This aircraft has a 59-inch (1.5m) wingspan and requires a “safe open area” such as an official AMA flying field for safe operation.

Q: Is this plane durable? What happens when I crash?

A: Very durable. It’s made of tough EPO foam, and the rubber-band wing attachment is a design feature allowing wings to pop off in crashes, reducing damage. A full line of replacement parts (wings, tail sets, propellers) is widely available from major hobby retailers.

Q: Will I get bored of this plane? Can it do tricks?

A: The Apprentice is a gentle “puppy dog” in Beginner Mode, but switching to Experienced Mode unlocks full aerobatic capabilities. It’s a 4-channel plane with a powerful brushless motor capable of loops, rolls, and inverted flight. You won’t outgrow it quickly.

Q: What common problems should I watch for?

A: Some users report “horizontal stab flutter” at high speeds, possibly caused by covering delamination. Others report intermittent electronic issues like “brown outs” (receiver power loss). Always use a quality, fully-charged battery and perform all pre-flight checks, especially the SAFE system test.

GEAR REQUIRED (EFL3750 BNF Basic)
Radio: Full-Range 6+ Channel Spektrum DSMX/DSM2 Compatible Transmitter
Battery: 11.1V 3200mAh 3S 30C LiPo with IC3/EC3 Connector
Charger: 3S 11.1V LiPo Compatible Charger

HIGHLIGHTS

• Official AMA Trainer—proven “Gold Standard” platform
• Brilliant 3-mode SAFE technology builds genuine confidence
• 1.5m wingspan provides exceptional stability and wind capability
• Durable EPO construction survives the training process
• Grows with pilot—full aerobatic capability in Experienced Mode
• Smart ESC telemetry prevents battery-related crashes
• Quick assembly under 1 hour, no special tools required
• Full replacement parts readily available