Flight
For reassurance and to keep an eye on other traffi c, it is a
good idea to have an assistant on the fl ight 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 fl y more smoothly at reduced speeds.
Take it easy with the Escapade for the fi rst few fl ights, gradually
getting acquainted with it as you gain confi dence. Adjust the
trims to maintain straight and level fl ight. After fl ying around
for a while, and while still at a safe altitude with plenty of fuel,
practice slow fl ight 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
fl y 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 fi ne tune the model
so it fl ies the way you like. Mind your fuel level, but use this
fi rst fl ight to become familiar with your model before landing.
Landing
To initiate a landing approach, 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 fi nal turn toward the runway (into
the wind) keeping the nose down to maintain airspeed and
control. Level the attitude when the model reaches the runway
threshold, modulating the throttle as necessary to maintain
your glide path and airspeed. If you are going to overshoot,
smoothly advance the throttle (always ready on the right rudder
to counteract torque) and climb out to make another attempt.
When you’re ready to make your landing fl are and the model
is a foot or so off the deck, smoothly increase up elevator until
it gently touches down. Once the model is on the runway and
has lost fl ying speed, hold up elevator to place the tail on the
ground, regaining tail wheel control.
One fi nal note about fl ying your model. Have a goal or fl ight plan
in mind for
every
fl ight. 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 fi nding 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 fl ight 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 fl y in a safe manner.
GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!
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