Canadian Dollar
FT Jenny XL
Step into vintage aviation glory with the FT Jenny XL—a majestic 58-inch tribute to the legendary Curtiss JN-4 “Jenny” biplane, designed by Dave Jester for lightning-fast builds and delightfully slow, graceful flight!
In just three hours, go from foam board to soaring skies and relive the golden era of barnstorming. This 4-channel beauty (aileron, rudder, elevator, throttle) flies so gently and slowly that large backyards, parks, or soccer fields become your personal flying circus—no massive runways required.
This special project holds deep meaning: created as a heartfelt surprise for Jen Bixler, the incredible backbone of Flite Test and Josh Bixler’s wife, who dreamed of a “Jenny” in the hangar for over 10 years. Dave Jester and Josh collaborated to craft a larger, ultra-gentle trainer version—perfect for Jen, new pilots, or anyone craving stylish, confidence-building flight.
Powered for smooth performance, it’s easy to personalize: add optional 3D-printed engine halves or full cowling, apply custom decals to transform it from military trainer to vibrant flying circus spectacle. Best of all, the included flying wires provide incredible structural strength while nailing that authentic scale look.
Build it effortlessly using the FT Mighty Mini Jenny video as your base, plus the Jenny XL Build Supplemental Article for the simple upgrades and extra steps.
Grab your scarf, goggles, and hot glue gun—this isn’t just a plane; it’s a ticket to timeless smiles, memories, and pure flying joy.
-----
Are you just starting out in Radio Controlled Planes? No problem. We got you covered! We're a community that loves sharing our passion for flight and we've got the knowledge to guide you every step of the way. So why not jump right in? Visit our Beginner Section & let's start this journey together.
Specifications
- Weight with Battery: 2.7lb
- Center of Gravity: 2.2” from top leading edge
- Control Surface Throws: 12 to 16 degree deflection
- Wingspan: 58.5" (1493.52 mm)
- Length: 41" (1041mm)
Recommended Electronics
- Motor: FT 2814 1100kv motor
- Prop: 12x4.5 CCW Propeller
- ESC: FT 40 Amp ESC
- Battery: 3300 mAh 3 cell
- Servos: (4) 9 gram servos
Package Includes
Note: Kit includes airframe only
- 4) Lasercut Maker Foam Sheet
- 4) Swappable Control Horn
- 1) Velcro
- 4) Zip Tie
- 2) Thick Landing Gear Wire
- 4) 16" Pushrod Wire
- 2) 4.3" Wheel
- 2) 3.1mm Wheel Adapter
- 1) 24" Nylon 1mm Cord
- 1/8" Plywood Jenny XL Kit
-
Part 2, - Fly
This plane is FASCINATING! I have never seen a larger fixed-wing aircraft be able to fly controlably, this slow! It is awesome! Can't say enough good about it. Flight times are about 8 minutes on a 3s 3200 battery flown conservatively. High throttle changes the airspeed very little so 60% throttle seems to do what is needed. 8mph headwinds yield landings in about 4', yeah, almost a hover landing.
One change I would make, put an additional collet on the inside of each wheel since weight is NOT an issue here. My port wheel managed to get around the 45-bend (I added a drop of 3-1 oil to the axle for quietness which helped it get around, my bad) and up the axle, dropping the plane on it's scimitar wooden prop. :(
Next change, that is entirely my doing, is paint it last. I had to scratch the paint off where ever I had to glue. I just really wanted red wings and thought masking would be a hassle. I'll deal with the paint-last-hassle next time. And yes I will get another kit and do this again! -
Part 1, - build
The build has been most enjoyable! Pay close attention to the cowling to mid-fuse bonding instructions as there can be fitting challenges there. My only failed-challenge was a mistake I made in freeing the ailerons, where one cut-thru. Be careful there. One additional thing I did was, I didn't care for the rough finish of the cockpits' opening. So, I bought 3' of 1/4" OD x 1/8" ID, black rubber (latex) tubing, split it open and framed each opening using hot-glue to hold it. After I fly this one for a while, I'll probably buy another and build again with the experience I have gained from this first time.
Related Products
FT Jenny XL Power Add-On
This Power Add-On includes everything you need to equip your XL Jenny aircraft with an unique prop driven power system, minus your receiver and battery. Following describes the contents of this...
