Top Tips to avoid a pilot's error crash

Be Confident in Your RC Aircraft’s Success

Building and flying model aeroplanes can be a thrilling and rewarding hobby. With the right know-how and confidence, you can avoid common issues that affect the safety and lifespan of your craft. Here are some tips to ensure your success:

• Center of Gravity Balance Point. 

Properly balancing your aircraft is essential to its flight performance and longevity. Always take the time to balance your plane using the manufacturer’s guidance. Use a balancing jig or your fingers to find the centre of gravity balance point. Slightly nose-heavy is better than slightly tail-heavy, which can lead to increased sensitivity and loss of control.

• Engine/Fuel System. The next item that can affect your aircraft’s success is an unreliable engine.

Take the time to break in your new engine as directed by the manufacturer for a reliable idle and smooth power transition. Always run your engine slightly rich to avoid overheating and damage. Ensure your fuel tank is installed correctly and the fuel pickup line is free to move around in the tank to avoid fuel issues.

• Radio Battery. Proper battery maintenance is vital to avoiding in-flight failures and crashes.

Charge your radio system battery the night before you fly and test the battery level with a battery checker at the flying field. Use a DC quick or peak detection charger to top off your battery pack as needed. Check your battery switch, connections, and foam padding for security.

• Final Condition Check. Always check the condition of your model before every flight.

Ensure your radio system, servos, screws, and clevises are correctly installed and functioning, and check control throws for proper direction and amount. Finally, never fly if something is not working correctly. Always err on the side of caution and abort your flight attempt if necessary. Remember, the plane you save may be your own.