Pilot Operating Handbook
Cavalon Pro
SECTION 5
PERFORMANCE
RotorSport_POH_Cavalon Pro
Revision 1.0 – Issue Date 12 04 2015
5-7
5.11 Effect of rain and dirt
During flight test it was noted that the take–off and climb performance in rain was marginally
reduced in rain. Expect up to a 5% reduction in performance.
The most noted effect of rain on take-off is the presence of rain drops over the front
windscreen, leading to a partially obscured view. It is highly recommended if operating in
wet conditions that the screen is kept very clean, such that rain tends to run off. If practical,
wipe before take-off commences. As airspeed increases the rain runs off either side of the
screen.
Dirty blades have a significant effect on performance, in both the increase of out of balance
forces (stick vibration), and reduction in lift. It is not practical to define a specific
performance loss versus level of insect accretion or dirt level – blades should always be
cleaned prior to flight, this activity takes only a couple of minutes. Proprietary baby wipes
make an excellent field cleaner for rotor blades.
Dirty blades can lead to a 20% performance loss.
