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17. The First Flight
a) Aligning the Transmitter Aerial
Angle the transmitter‘s aerial (see figure 1, item 8) to the side, so that the aerial is at a 90° angle to the connection
line remote control/model. This is how you will achieve best signal transmission. Do not point the tip of the transmit-
ter aerial at the model, since this would strongly reduce range.
b) Range Test
Before the first use, the flight battery must be charged as instructed in chapter 10. The batteries in the transmitter
must be inspected for voltage position (e.g. with a battery tester). First perform a range test for the remote control
system in the flight area. Switch on the remote control and then the receiver. Now check the range by having a
helper hold the model if possible and moving away from the model. On the ground, the remote control must work
without interferences at least at a distance of 70 - 80 m.
After once again briefly reviewing the motor function and deflections of the elevator and rudder and the two ailerons,
the model is ready for its first flight.
Select suitable flight area to operate your model. We recommend a model flight field or large meadow for your first
flight attempts. Wait for a day with low or no wind. If you have no or insufficient knowledge of how to control flight
models ask an experienced flight model constructor for help.
c) Take-Off
Generally, it is easily possible to start the model on your own and from a smooth floor. For the first flight, however,
we still recommend using a launch helper to launch the model from his hand. This way, you have both hands free for
steering and can focus fully on the model. You should always start and land against the wind.
Our advice:
In order to be able to distinctly see the flight attitude of your model, you should stand to the side and
behind the person assisting you and look into the flight direction of the starting model.
The start helper takes the model at the fuselage below the wings with his thumb and first finger. Now accelerate
slowly and let the motor run at full output. The launch helper then releases the model straight forwards with a gentle
push.
The model should now rise at a flat angle. You may need to reduce the motor speed a little for this. Try to steer as
little as possible. Only steer the model if it changes its flight attitude by itself and e.g. flies a curve, ascends too high
or is about to nose-dive.
To sensitively correct the flight attitude and to carry out specific changes of direction in normal flight attitude, short
and limited movements of the control stick on the transmitter are sufficient.
Once the desired flight altitude is reached, reduce the motor performance and initiate the first curve.
