Before you get ready to takeoff, see how the model handles
on the ground by doing a few practice runs at low speeds
on the runway. If necessary, adjust the nose wheel so the
model will roll straight down the runway. If you need to calm
your nerves before the maiden flight, shut the engine down
and bring the model back into the pits. Top off the fuel, then
check all fasteners and control linkages for peace of mind.
Remember to takeoff into the wind. When you’re ready, point
the model straight down the runway. Gradually advance the
throttle. Gain as much speed as your runway and flying site
will practically allow before gently applying up elevator,
lifting the model into the air. Be smooth on the elevator stick,
allowing the model to establish a gentle climb to a safe
altitude before turning into the traffic pattern.
For reassurance and to keep an eye on other traffic, it is a
good idea to have an assistant on the flight line with you. Tell
him to remind you to throttle back once the plane gets to a
comfortable altitude. While full throttle is usually desirable for
takeoff, most models fly more smoothly at reduced speeds.
Take it easy with the Lancair for the first few flights, gradually
getting acquainted with it as you gain confidence. Adjust the
trims to maintain straight and level flight. After flying around
for a while, and while still at a safe altitude with plenty of
fuel, practice slow flight and execute practice landing
approaches by reducing the throttle to see how the model
handles at slower speeds. Add power to see how she climbs
as well. Continue to fly around, executing various
maneuvers and making mental notes (or having your
assistant write them down) of what trim or C.G. changes
may be required to fine tune the model so it flies the way you
like. Mind your fuel level, but use this first flight to become
familiar with your model before landing.
The Lancair is capable of being landed with and without
flaps. Landing the Lancair without extending the flaps will be
faster than if you use the flaps. To initiate a landing approach
without using the flaps, lower the throttle while on the
downwind leg. Allow the nose of the model to pitch
downward to gradually bleed off altitude. Continue to lose
altitude, but maintain airspeed by keeping the nose down as
you turn onto the crosswind leg. Make your final turn toward
the runway (into the wind) keeping the nose down to
maintain airspeed and control. Level the airplane when the
model reaches the runway threshold, modulating the throttle
as necessary to maintain your glide path and airspeed.
When you’re ready to make your landing flare and the model
is a foot or so off the deck, smoothly increase up elevator
until it gently touches down. Using the flaps for your landing
will slow the plane nicely. If you have not used flaps it is a
good idea to practice flying the plane at slow speeds with
the flaps down. Flaps should only be used when you reduce
power to 1/3rd throttle or less. With the flaps extended in
slow flight you will find that the plane flies well but in a
slightly nose high attitude.
Note: If you have too much
airspeed when you extend the flaps the plane will pitch up
slightly. This “pitch up” will tend to go away as the plane
continues to slow. Until the airspeed dissipates, you may
need to apply a slight amount of down elevator. With a
computer radio you could mix a small amount of down
elevator to the flaps. To initiate a flaps-down landing, extend
the flaps on the base leg of your landing approach,
gradually bleeding off some airspeed. Continue to fly a
standard landing approach. The only real difference you will
notice is that you have to fly the plane to the runway with
power on until you are about a foot off of the ground. Do not
hesitate to keep additional power on when you are landing
with flaps. The flaps do add additional drag that must be
overcome by the use of a higher throttle setting.
One final note about flying your model. Have a goal or flight
plan in mind for every flight. This can be learning a new
maneuver(s), improving a maneuver(s) you already know, or
learning how the model behaves in certain conditions (such
as on high or low rates). This is not necessarily to improve
your skills
(though it is never a bad idea!), but more
importantly so you do not surprise yourself by impulsively
attempting a maneuver and suddenly finding that you’ve run
out of time, altitude or airspeed. Every maneuver should be
deliberate, not impulsive. For example, if you’re going to do
a loop, check your altitude, mind the wind direction
(anticipating rudder corrections that will be required to
maintain heading), remember to throttle back at the top, and
make certain you are on the desired rates (high/low rates).
A flight plan greatly reduces the chances of crashing your
model just because of poor planning and impulsive moves.
Remember to think.
Have a ball! But always stay in control and fly in a safe
manner.
GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!
Make a copy of the identification tag shown below and
place it on or inside the model.
Landing
Flight
Takeoff
36
Summary of Contents for Lancair ES
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