Overview
The E-flite Opterra 2m Wing BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select is a sophisticated and versatile flying wing aircraft designed by renowned RC aircraft designers George Hicks and Mike McConville. This 2-metre electric-powered RC aeroplane represents the pinnacle of modern wing design, combining exceptional performance capabilities with ease of use that appeals to intermediate pilots and experienced flyers alike. Whether you're seeking an ready-to-fly RC model for sport aerobatics, thermal soaring, or advanced FPV (First Person View) flying with simultaneous HD video recording, the Opterra 2m delivers across every performance envelope with confidence and precision.
As a Bind-N-Fly Basic model, the Opterra 2m arrives almost flight-ready with the power system, servos, receiver and electronic speed controller already installed and tested. This means you can get into the air quickly without lengthy assembly times or complex configuration. The aircraft's lightweight carbon-reinforced Z-Foam EPO construction and efficient aerodynamics provide a wide range of flying capabilities, from smooth, efficient soaring to dynamic sport aerobatics. If you're looking for a serious brushless RC aeroplane that doesn't require extensive building experience, the Opterra 2m stands out as one of the finest flying wing options available on the UK RC market today.
What truly sets this RC flying wing apart is its integration of Spektrum's industry-leading AS3X stabilisation technology combined with optional SAFE Select flight envelope protection. These advanced systems work seamlessly to enhance stability, smooth out wind and turbulence effects, and provide an extra margin of safety for pilots who want it. Combined with the versatile camera mounting options—supporting up to three simultaneous camera positions—the Opterra 2m is equally at home as a pure performance aircraft or as a capable FPV and HD video platform.
Key Features
- Bind-N-Fly Basic Configuration — The Opterra 2m arrives with the brushless motor, 40A electronic speed controller, and Spektrum AR631 receiver pre-installed, meaning you simply need to bind the receiver to your compatible Spektrum transmitter and you're ready to fly, saving considerable setup time compared to building from a kit.
- AS3X and SAFE Select Technology — The installed Spektrum AR631 6-channel receiver features Artificial Stabilisation–3-aXis (AS3X) technology that continuously monitors aircraft attitude and automatically applies corrective inputs to smooth out turbulence and wind effects, creating a more stable and responsive flying experience. Optional SAFE Select flight envelope protection can be enabled at binding, providing pitch and bank angle limits, automatic self-leveling, and enhanced safety for less experienced pilots without requiring complex programming.
- Lightweight Carbon-Reinforced Z-Foam Construction — The airframe utilises carbon-reinforced, hollow-core Z-Foam (EPO) material that maintains exceptional strength and rigidity whilst keeping the aircraft's weight to a minimum, enabling outstanding glide characteristics and efficiency during soaring.
- Advanced Aerodynamic Design — Winglets and fuselage fins enhance tracking and stability in all flight conditions, whilst vortex generators located along the leading edges of the wings and ahead of the elevons improve slow-speed stability and control authority, allowing confident handling at reduced airspeeds.
- Powerful Brushless Motor with Folding Propeller — The high-output 1300KV brushless outrunner motor provides more than sufficient thrust for carrying camera payloads or performing energetic sport aerobatics, whilst the folding propeller automatically retracts during powered-off gliding to reduce drag and extend thermal soaring duration.
- Quick-Assembly Plug-In Wings and Winglets — The wing panels and winglets connect via thumbscrew fasteners, allowing complete assembly or disassembly in under one hour, making the aircraft genuinely portable and practical for transport to flying sites across the UK.
- Multiple FPV and HD Camera Mounting Stations — The Opterra 2m features up to three camera mounting positions: two forward-facing stations in an optional camera nose (compatible with GoPro Hero 3, Hero 4, Spektrum FPV cameras and similar) and a downward-looking belly bay for recording underneath the aircraft, enabling simultaneous FPV flying and HD video recording.
- Efficient Box Design with Carry Handle — The aircraft's shipping box doubles as a practical carrying case with an integrated handle, providing convenient storage and transport protection for your investment.
- Digital Metal-Geared Servos — Heavy-duty digital servos with metal gears are pre-installed, offering precise control response and durability for consistent aerodynamic control across all flight profiles.
- 6-Channel Spektrum Receiver — The AR631 receiver provides full 6-channel control capability, offering greater control authority and flexibility compared to basic 4-channel receivers, essential for advanced flying manoeuvres and reliable FPV control.
Technical Performance
The Opterra 2m represents a substantial step forward in flying wing technology, combining proven engineering principles with modern materials and electronics. The aircraft's 1989mm wingspan and efficient aerodynamic profile deliver remarkable performance across a wide speed range. Powered by a 1300KV brushless outrunner motor paired with a 40-amp electronic speed controller, the power system delivers adequate thrust for sport aerobatics whilst maintaining the efficiency necessary for extended soaring flights. The aircraft's flying weight of 2010 grams (allowing for battery installation) achieves an excellent power-to-weight ratio that enables both dynamic performance and gentle thermalling. Construction utilises carbon-reinforced, hollow-core Z-Foam EPO material throughout, offering outstanding strength-to-weight characteristics whilst maintaining the rigidity required for precision aerobatic flight. The 1033 square inch wing area generates excellent lift efficiency, allowing the aircraft to climb on weak thermals and maintain altitude in light sink conditions that would challenge less efficient designs. Spektrum's DSMX 2.4GHz radio protocol ensures reliable long-range communication with encrypted digital signal transmission, whilst the installed AS3X stabilisation system provides continuous, invisible aircraft attitude correction that smooths turbulence and enhances precision. For UK pilots seeking a serious high-performance flying wing capable of both competitive sport aerobatics and extended cross-country soaring missions, the Opterra 2m delivers exceptional real-world capability.
What's in the Box
- Opterra 2m Wing fuselage and control surfaces
- 1300KV brushless outrunner motor (factory-installed)
- 40-amp electronic speed controller (factory-installed)
- Spektrum AR631 6-channel SAFE and AS3X receiver (factory-installed)
- Four digital metal-geared servos (factory-installed)
- Folding propeller with adapter
- Comprehensive user manual with assembly and safety instructions
What You Need to Complete
- Full-range 4+ channel Spektrum DSMX or DSM2 compatible radio transmitter (transmitter sold separately)
- One 3S 11.1-volt LiPo flight battery with 2200–3200mAh capacity and EC3 or IC3 connector (battery sold separately)
- Compatible 3S LiPo battery charger with EC3 or IC3 connector compatibility (charger sold separately)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Opterra 2m suitable for beginner pilots new to RC aeroplanes? — The Opterra 2m is rated as Skill Level 3, indicating it's best suited to intermediate and experienced pilots who have flying experience with other RC aircraft models. However, the optional SAFE Select flight envelope protection system can assist less experienced pilots by automatically limiting pitch and bank angles and providing automatic self-levelling, making it more forgiving for those transitioning to their first flying wing. If you're completely new to RC flying, you might prefer starting with a simpler trainer-class model before progressing to the Opterra 2m.
- What battery does the Opterra 2m require? — The aircraft is compatible exclusively with 3S lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries in the 2200–3200mAh capacity range, delivering 11.1 volts when fully charged. The recommended battery is a 2200mAh 3S LiPo with either an EC3 or IC3 connector to match the aircraft's power system connectors. The aircraft cannot accept 4S batteries or higher voltage packs, as these would exceed the motor and speed controller's design specifications.
- Can I use this RC flying wing for FPV flying? — Yes, absolutely. The Opterra 2m features up to three camera mounting stations specifically designed for FPV and HD video use. The optional camera nose provides two forward-facing positions compatible with GoPro Hero 3, Hero 4, Spektrum FPV cameras and similar class cameras, whilst an additional downward-looking belly bay allows simultaneous HD video recording. When equipping the aircraft for FPV, you'll need to purchase separately: an adjustable power video transmitter (such as the Spektrum SPMVT1000), RHCP antennas (Spektrum SPMVX5801 or SPMVX5802), an FPV camera (Spektrum 650TVL CCD SPMVC650), power adapter (SPMA9556), and a video monitor or headset (Spektrum 4.3-inch SPMVM430C), with all FPV components sold separately by RC retailers.
- What transmitter do I need to fly the Opterra 2m? — The aircraft requires a full-range, 4+ channel Spektrum DSMX or DSM2 compatible radio transmitter. Any modern Spektrum transmitter meeting these specifications will bind and operate with the aircraft's AR631 receiver. Popular options include the Spektrum DXS transmitter and Spektrum iX20 models, both available from UK RC retailers. The transmitter must be purchased separately as it's not included with the aircraft.
- How long does assembly take? — Total assembly time is less than one hour for an intermediate builder. The main assembly steps involve connecting the plug-in wing panels and winglets using the supplied thumbscrews, installing the battery, charging the battery, binding the receiver to your transmitter, and performing centre-of-gravity checks before your first flight.
- What is the difference between AS3X and SAFE Select? — AS3X (Artificial Stabilisation–3-aXis) is always active and continuously corrects aircraft attitude to smooth turbulence and enhance stability. SAFE Select is an optional system that can be enabled by changing the binding sequence; when active, it adds pitch and bank angle envelope limits, automatic self-levelling, and prevents extreme attitudes, providing an additional safety margin. SAFE Select features no complex programming and can be toggled on or off via a transmitter switch. You can fly with just AS3X, with both systems enabled, or neither depending on your preference and experience level.
- Is the Opterra 2m waterproof or water-resistant? — The aircraft is constructed from Z-Foam EPO material which is moisture-resistant, though the aircraft is not fully waterproof. The installed electronics are standard RC components not rated for waterproofing, so the aircraft should not be deliberately flown in rain or landed in water. However, brief exposure to light rain during flight is generally tolerated by the EPO structure and electronics.
- What flying weight should I expect? — The aircraft's empty weight is 1899 grams, and the flying weight (including battery) ranges from 2010–2000 grams depending on the specific 3S battery used. This provides an excellent power-to-weight ratio and wing loading that contributes to the aircraft's outstanding performance characteristics.
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 E-flite Opterra 2m Wing BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select 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.
