In many ways, Brian Deis’ Dadeville workshop is perfectly normal. Hand and power tools are laid out on countertops; more wait in drawers and cabinets decorated with funny Internet printouts and family photos. The space could serve any number of hobbies; that is, until you notice the miniature World War II bomber on the central table, perfect down to the landing gear and meticulously painted insignias. Or the model Zivko Edge 540, complete with tiny pilot awaiting repairs nearby.
The workshop is the home base of Deis’ Dream RC Planes, where engineering comes together with artistry to create some incredible radio-controlled (RC) flying machines. Deis builds everything from tiny precision planes to the world’s largest RC plane, a 22-foot double decker jet containing 78 pounds of batteries, which took 3,100 hours to complete.
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