AFM 4-2
mode is a good alternative to manual control for novice safety pilots or those lacking RC airplane
experience.
Manual
The manual flight mode provides the safety pilot with manual control of the aircraft. This bypasses all
forms of autopilot stabilization, and cannot be interrupted by the GCS operator. In this mode the
safety pilot is responsible for flying the aircraft like an RC airplane. This gives the safety pilot the
most control for any emergency scenario, and allows rapid alteration of the flight path.
Compared to Cruise, Lynx will seem very agile when flown in manual and will be sensitive to control
inputs. If the safety pilot is unprepared to fly the aircraft with zero autopilot stabilization, they should
not use this flight mode.
Changing Autopilot Modes
Default autopilot modes on the handheld transmitter are set to auto and rally. In addition to changing
autopilot modes using the handheld transmitter, users can also change modes with Swift GCS. Note:
manual control will take precedence over other flight modes.
Mode Switch
(down position)
Mode Switch
(middle position)
Mode Switch
(top position)
Manual Deep-
Stall
Flight Mode
Manual
Rally
Auto
n/a
Who’s in Control
Safety Pilot
Operator
Operator
Safety Pilot
Result
Manual Control
Autopilot Control
Autopilot Control
Manual Steering
Safety Devices
Lynx is fitted with a variety of safety devices to protect crew members on the ground and the aircraft
during flight.
Throttle safety key
The throttle safety key adds an extra layer of protection against propeller strikes during preflight. The
key, located on the left side of the fuselage, will prevent the motor from spinning when inserted. This
will stop throttle commands from both the safety pilot and autopilot. When the key is removed, a red
light will illuminate on the side of the fuselage and the motor will emit an audible arming tone. The
motor will only arm with zero throttle commanded prior to removing the key. Always reinsert the
safety key before setting the aircraft down.
As with any safety device, nothing can replace safe
equipment handling. Always keep the throttle down on the handheld transmitter unless
needed.
Arming Checks
Lynx is armed as a preflight step. Arming gives the autopilot the authority to command throttle. You
will only be able to arm if the aircraft passes a list of onboard sensor checks.
Takeoff Button
The auto takeoff is activated by pressing the takeoff button on the fuselage after the aircraft has
been armed. When the takeoff button is flashing the autopilot is inhibited from controlling the throttle.
6
