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10. Flying the Model In
Having checked the centre of gravity, the function and the direction of the rudder deflections, your model is ready for its first flight. However, we recommend you
contact an experienced model airplane pilot or a model construction club in your area if you are not sure as how to fly in an airplane model properly.
a) Range Test
Before the first take-off, you should charge the receiver battery and and the transmitter battery where applicable, according to the specifications of the manufacturer.
First perform a range test for the remote control system on the flight area. Switch on the remote control and then the receiver. Now check the range according to
the operating instructions of your remote control by having someone assist you by securely holding the model, and walk away from the model slowly.
b) The First Start
It is recommended that you have someone assist you for the first start by holding the flight model at the bottom of the fuselage slightly behind the centre of gravity
and releasing it upwind in a flat angle against the wind.
If the assembly was carried out correctly, the model should ascend speedily at a flat angle until the hand start push has been used up. Try trimming out the model
in the next starts to find the best position of the centre of gravity.
c) The First Touch-Down
To land the model as gently as possible, it should float in at moderate speed. Briefly before the model touches down, reduce the speed further by “gently adding
elevator”. Carefully approach the minimum landing speed possible that will not cause insufficient airflow.
d) Catapult Start
With sufficient practice, you may use a catapult start to achieve high initial heights for long flight times. For the first starts with this method, we
recommend that you have someone help you. This way, you can study the start and perfect it with suitable remote control signals.
The catapult start generally works like discus throwing in athletics. For this, the model is put on the ground with the ting to which the catapult starting aid is
not
installed.
Hold the other side of the wing so that you hold the pin with one finger on the top and bottom of the catapult start aid area (pin). Hold the remote control
transmitter with the other hand. Spin quickly in the direction in which the model may start.
Release the model after one/two spins. Try to add elevator to turn the starting thrust into as much height as possible.