Flight Training Program - Somerset Signal Senders

Flight Training
Program
Somerset Signal Senders
Student Pilot Handbook
and
Flight Log
Student Pilot: ________________________
AMA #: ___________
Primary Instructor: ________________
Contact Information: _____________
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Waiver of Liability.................................................................................................................... 4
Safety........................................................................................................................................ 6
Flying Field............................................................................................................................... 6
Somerset Signal Senders Flight Training Program ........................................................................... 7
1. WHY DOES THE SSS HAVE A FLIGHT TRAINING PROGRAM? ....................................... 7
2. KEYSTONES OF THE PROGRAM. ............................................................................................. 7
3. HOW IT WORKS: ........................................................................................................................... 7
4. REQUIREMENTS FOR THE STUDENT..................................................................................... 8
5. TIPS FOR THE STUDENT PILOT ............................................................................................... 8
6. INFORMATION FOR THE BEGINNER...................................................................................... 9
Objectives ................................................................................................................................ 10
OBJECTIVE 1 – GROUND SAFETY CHECK and AIRCRAFT FAMILIARIZATION .................. 10
OBJECTIVE 2 - RADIO AND FIELD PROCEDURES ..................................................................... 10
OBJECTIVE 3 – INITIAL FLIGHT FAMILIARIZATION................................................................ 10
OBJECTIVE 4 – BASIC FLIGHT MANEUVERS ............................................................................. 11
OBJECTIVE 5 - ACCURACY MANEUVERS................................................................................... 11
OBJECTIVE 6 - STALLS .................................................................................................................... 12
OBJECTIVE 7 – INITIAL EMERGENCY PROCEDURES............................................................... 12
OBJECTIVE 8 - TAKE-OFFS ............................................................................................................. 12
OBJECTIVE 9 - ORIENTATION MANEUVERS.............................................................................. 12
OBJECTIVE 10 – APPROACHES TO LANDING............................................................................. 12
OBJECTIVE 11 – SUPERVISED SOLO FLIGHT ............................................................................. 12
OBJECTIVE 12 – FURTHER EMERGENCY PROCEDURES ......................................................... 13
STUDENT TRAINING LOG..................................................................................................... 14
New Pilot ................................................................................................................................ 15
Pre-Flight Checklist (walk around)....................................................................................... 15
Flying Credentials............................................................................................................................... 15
Fixed-Wing Requirements for "P" ................................................................................................... 15
Overnight ............................................................................................................................................. 15
Airplane in good flight condition....................................................................................................... 15
Power System ...................................................................................................................................... 16
Frequency Protocol............................................................................................................................. 16
Transmitter Settings ........................................................................................................................... 16
Aircraft Energized (battery installed and aircraft switched on) .................................................... 16
Start-up Procedure ............................................................................................................................. 17
Take-off Process .................................................................................................................................. 17
Flight .................................................................................................................................................... 18
Landing ................................................................................................................................................ 18
Emergencies......................................................................................................................................... 18
Other .................................................................................................................................................... 18
Restrictions ...................................................................................................................................... 18
Field and Parking............................................................................................................................ 18
New Pilot check off list............................................................................................................. 20
Flight Achievements to Fixed Wing Aircraft ............................................................................. 21
Skills ........................................................................................................................................ 22
Figure 8s................................................................................................................................................ 22
Flying the "Box" ................................................................................................................................... 22
Appendices ............................................................................................................................ 23
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Appendix 1: Flying Field .................................................................................................................... 23
Appendix 2: Resources:...................................................................................................................... 25
Appendix 3: Posted Flying Field Rules ............................................................................................. 26
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Somerset Signal Senders Flight Training Program
(Student Packet)
Waiver of Liability
Student’s Name: ____________________________________
AMA # ____________
Somerset Park Permit #: _______________________
Address ___________________________________ Phone Number ( ____ ) ____________
___________________________________ email: __________________________
The above named individual hereby understands that the Somerset Signal Senders (SSS) assumes no
liability or responsibility in regards to the material herein, or any resulting action thereof. All
information was compiled in good faith from printed materials, past experience and general knowledge
of the model aviation hobby.
Safety, safe practices and procedures, have been emphasized throughout this manual.
Participants are expected to comply with these guidelines at all times as a member of the
Somerset Signal Senders.
The Somerset Signal Senders flight training program is provided free of charge by experienced model
aircraft pilots who volunteer their time. There are no guarantees as to results. Participants must exercise
their own good judgment and common sense in determining their abilities and limitations. The Somerset
Signal Senders assumes no liability or responsibility for any action taken, past, present, or future, by any
participant in this program.
Participants further attest they are members in good standing with the Academy of Model
Aeronautics (AMA) and that they posses a current Somerset County Park Radio Controlled Flying
Permit. Should the possibility of conflict exist with club procedures, guidelines, etc. and AMA rules,
AMA rules will take precedence.
If you do not find these terms agreeable to your situation, we suggest that you not participate in the
program.
Previous model aircraft flying experience:
__ I have never flown a model aircraft before
__ I have a few flights before with an experienced instructor.
__ I have flown several times before, but have not soloed.
__ I am an experienced flyer
_____________________________
(Student’s Signature)
______________
(Date)
This form needs to be signed and turned into your instructor at the first lesson.
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Questionnaire for new pilots
Please circle “Y” or “N” where appropriate.
Student Pilot Name: _____________________________________________
Phone # (
) ______________
email:______________
Date:________________
Have you ever flown an R/C airplane before? Y / N. If yes please explain.
Have you flown an R/C simulator like Phoenix RC or Real Flight? Y / N
Do you own an R/C trainer aircraft Y / N. If yes what model, engine/motor and radio.
Days and time available:
Instructor assigned:
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Safety
Each member and participant is entitled to question and enforce safety.
This means confronting anyone who deliberately or by coincidence puts him/herself or another
participant in an un-safe situation. For example,
• Flying without AMA Membership Card and Somerset County Park Radio Controlled Flying
Permit
• Attempting to fly aircraft that are "experimental" without Safety Check
• Poor pit procedures
• Flying recklessly without regard to pattern or other pilots
• Repeatedly flying outside of safe zone or park boundaries (over pit/spectator area)
• Taxiing to and from pit area
• Flying solo without an AMA/Park Permit Holder (Pilot Certified) accompanying you prior to
getting your Pilot Certification (indicated by a “P” sticker on your park permit)
• Flying or attempting to take-off while 4 pilots are already engaged
• Performing 3D, aerobatic or "stunt" maneuvers close to the flight-line
All safety issues are to be reported to SSS Safety Officer.
Park Rangers are to be called for any situation that cannot be amicably or reasonably resolved.
S Situation. Understand your surroundings, environment and aircraft
A Awareness. Know what's going on around you. Do not assume fellow pilots know what you know
F Flight worthy. Both you and your aircraft need to be prepared.
E Experience. Cockiness leads to crashes. Know your limitations, skills and level of experience
T Trust
Y Your responsibility is Safety
Flying Field
• The Somerset County Flying Field is a dedicated area for RC flying.
• Permitted are fixed-wing and helicopter aircraft powered by gas, nitro/glow and electric
motors or Hi-Start/Winch/Hand launched in the case of Gliders.
• Turbine powered aircraft are not permitted
• Rocketry is not permitted; they have a dedicated field at the other side of the Park HQ.
• While flying is going-on, no other activities are permitted on the field (ball throwing, soccer,
kites, etc)
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Somerset Signal Senders Flight Training Program
1. WHY DOES THE SSS HAVE A FLIGHT TRAINING PROGRAM?
Many new pilots have attempted their first flight after having purchased an airplane from either a local
hobby shop, on-line, or received one from a friend. The temptation to get it in the air is overwhelming.
Un-box, assemble, browse the manual, find a local park, take-off and watch as it goes out of control and
ends up high in a tree, becomes a pile of foam/wood or worse. Learning to fly safely and successfully
takes time, patience and the help of experienced pilots. SSS have created a Flight Training Program
where the student learns at his/her pace with the guidance and direction of an Instructor Pilot. The
program is designed with certain milestones to be achieved and done in a safe, fun and enjoyable
manner.
2. KEYSTONES OF THE PROGRAM.
The SSS Flight Training Program is built on four basic principles:
A. SAFETY. Properly built, assembled and flown, RC aircraft are a joy to watch and control. They
are safe and readily respond to the pilot's input. However, the potential damage a radio-controlled
aircraft can cause, particularly when flown by an inexperienced pilot, is a prime consideration in any
RC flight training curriculum. Our flight-training program is focused first and foremost on safety.
B. SUCCESS. Learning to fly RC aircraft is an enjoyable and thrilling challenge. However, like
most challenges, they are best confronted by a team; it is nearly impossible to learn RC flying on
your own. While there are no guarantees, the SSS Flight Training Program is designed to guide the
student through the learning process on their first aircraft ideally minimizing the risk of a
catastrophic crash. Simulators do a good job of helping with orientation and stick movement, but
they do not replicate real world. Do not assume simulator hours equate to field hours.
C. ORDERLY PROGRESS. This program covers an orderly and progressive series of twelve
objectives which start with the basics and ends with a solo flight test. The twelve objectives are
organized into four lesson plans that build flight skills in a sequential manner.
The four flight lesson plans typically introduce basic flight skills in the following sequence:
a. Teaching How to Turn and Maintain Level Flight
b. Teaching How to Set and Hold Headings
c. Teaching How to Take-off
d. Teaching How to Land
D. FUN. Fun and Safety are linked. Most pilots recall their training days as one of the most
enjoyable and exhilarating periods of their RC aircraft involvement. The sense of excitement and
accomplishment one feels as each new skill is mastered is one of the greatest payoffs of this hobby.
This training program maximizes the “fun factor.”
3. HOW IT WORKS:
Simply stated, the SSS Flight Training Program consists of three equally important elements:
A. INSTRUCTOR PILOT. The SSS Flight Instruction Program uses experienced
Instructor Pilots (IP). Their principle objective is to guide the student through the flight training
program, certify his/her progress in the student pilot's log, and then help coordinate the solo check
flight evaluation.
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B. THE TRAINING PROGRAM. The training program consists of twelve initial
objectives that culminate with a “Solo Pilot” check flight evaluation. The twelve objectives can be
easily organized into four lesson plans as discussed in the previous section. Each subsequent training
objective builds on skills developed in previous lessons. Early objectives are simple and might take
only an hour or two to complete. Later lessons may require more than one weekend before the skill
is mastered. In any case, progress through the program is recorded on a progress log maintained by
the IP.
C. THE STUDENT. Perhaps this is the most important element of this Training Program.
A few notes to the student appear below.
4. REQUIREMENTS FOR THE STUDENT
While both your IP and the SSS club are ready to help you learn, there are three basic requirements that
must be met before you can participate in the Flight Training Program.
A. MEMBERSHIP IN THE ACADEMY OF MODEL AERONAUTICS (AMA).
http://www.modelaircraft.org/
The AMA is the national governing body for model aviation in the United
States. Membership in the Academy provides liability insurance, a monthly
magazine covering the whole range of modeling activities, and other important
benefits. SSS is an AMA chartered club and requires membership in the
Academy for all of its members and those who fly at the Somerset County Flying Field.
B. SOMERSET COUNTY FLYING FIELD PERMIT.
http://www.somersetcountyparks.org/parksFacilities/northbranch/NorthB
ranchPk.html
SSS operates at the Somerset County North Branch Park Flying Field. The
county has invested significant resources and effort into improving this facility.
Annual maintenance and liability insurance expenses are considerable.
Consequently, Somerset County requires a "Flying Permit" to fly at this facility.
C. MEMBERSHIP IN SOMERSET SIGNAL SENDERS.
Our Flight Training program is managed and coordinated through the volunteering efforts
of SSS members. We require student pilots to be members of SSS.
5. TIPS FOR THE STUDENT PILOT
In an effort to insure your rapid success in this training program, the following suggestions
are offered to potential student pilots:
A. GET ADVICE EARLY. The choice of the right first plane is important. Some
beautiful models don’t make good trainers. Before you purchase anything, contact the
club or IP for advice.
B. STAY WITH IT. Once you begin flight training, try to come to the field often. It is
strongly recommended that you attempt to schedule a flight lesson at least once a week if
possible, even if you start flying in the winter months. Your progress will be much
faster, and your instructor will not need to spend as much time reviewing material from
previous lessons.
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C. COORDINATE WITH YOUR INSTRUCTOR.
Chances are you’ll be “linked” to a single instructor pilot who will guide you through the whole
Flight Training Program. Make specific appointments to meet him at the field for flight training.
Weekday evenings after work are usually a good time to get in 5 or 6 flights. The field is not
crowded and your instructor can devote all his attention to you. You can, of course, also
train on weekends. Your instructor, however, will probably want to fly his own plane
occasionally, so fewer flights are likely. In any case, check with him to avoid coming to
the field and being disappointed when you find him not there. Other instructors may help
you if your instructor is absent but he may be concentrating on his assigned students.
D. BE PERSISTENT. At the flying field, actively seek out your instructor and let him
know when you are ready to fly. Once you are familiar with the basic tasks, you should
be able to get your aircraft completely ready to fly with little or no assistance from your
instructor. Once your aircraft is ready, don’t wait until he thinks to ask you if it is ready.
He may have other things to do or even another student going at once. Don’t be bashful!
6. INFORMATION FOR THE BEGINNER
The following contains a summary of what your instructor will be teaching you in each
lesson. If your progress and time permits, several objectives may be combined in one flying
session. By the time you finish the course, you will be armed with the basic knowledge and
skills to become a responsible and safe .
[One quick note: While everything possible will be done to avoid a crash while flying your
plane, occasionally accidents do happen. However, your instructor and the SSS assume no responsibility
for any damage that may occur. You should understand this limited liability before agreeing to
participate in the SSS Flight Training Program.]
At the conclusion of this training program, you will have an opportunity to take a Flight
Qualification Test to demonstrate your skills and proficiency. Upon passing the Fixed Wing
Requirements Test you will be given a “P” sticker which will be adhered to your County Park Permit.
Having the "P" designation allows you solo (unsupervised) flight operations at the flying field.
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Objectives
OBJECTIVE 1 – GROUND SAFETY CHECK and AIRCRAFT FAMILIARIZATION
Know how to inspect your aircraft before each flight, recognize any problems
that could cause an in-flight failure that might result in a crash. Your IP will
show you how to pre-flight your aircraft and identify any deficiencies that
could cause a malfunction or safety hazard. Your IP will also instruct you
how to start and adjust your engine (if "glow" is your primary choice of
power plant).
OBJECTIVE 2 - RADIO AND FIELD PROCEDURES
Acquaint the student pilot with the Transmitter (Tx) and receiver (Rx), signal
acquisition, frequencies pin, possible interference, and conducting a range
check. Your instructor will explain the facilities that are available at the field
(impound/holding station, frequency board, wind sock and vane, first aid,
etc). Your instructor will also discuss the importance of proper frequency
control, flight operating procedures and field rules for safe operation.
OBJECTIVE 3 – INITIAL FLIGHT FAMILIARIZATION
Initial flight familiarization will include the purpose of
each control surface and how they work together to
control the aircraft in flight. Instruction will also include
how each channel in the radio system is linked to each
control surface. After a quick check-flight to confirm the
airworthiness of your aircraft, your IP will let you have
the Transmitter (Tx) and show you how to control your
aircraft in flight. At this point, all of your flying will be
done at a safe altitude where the IP can take over control
if you get into any trouble or if there is an in-flight
emergency.
Don’t worry about losing control during this flight. That’s why the instructor is there. He will keep you
out of trouble by taking control of the aircraft. Just relax and get the feel of the controls. If you get
nervous, which happens occasionally, tell your instructor and he will take the controls. Remember, all
you want to do during this lesson is to get a feel for the aircraft in-flight.
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OBJECTIVE 4 – BASIC FLIGHT MANEUVERS
At the beginning of each flight session, your IP will perform a safety
check looking for any potential airworthiness problems. If your instructor
finds anything that needs to be corrected, he may perform an initial flight
test to verify its airworthiness and safe handling qualities. Most Flight
Instruction lessons will be performed with a “buddy box” attached to
your transmitter. With the Buddy Box attached, your instructor will
perform most initial take-offs and landings, but will have you take the
controls after the model is at a safe altitude. The "Buddy-Box" will be
explained and how it operates.
Once you have obtained the feel of flying your aircraft, your instructor will teach you the five
basic maneuvers required to get around in the sky. They are:
1. Level Flight
2. Banked Turns
3. Straight Climbs
4. Climbing Turns
5. Gliding
Your IP will also explain disorientation. This is a problem that everyone experiences
sooner or later in flying aircraft. Basically, disorientation occurs when the model does
something your senses don’t anticipate. For example, when the model is coming toward you and
you start to turn left, the model will turn to the left. But, it will move to your right. Your hands
have told your brain “Left,” but your eyes are telling your brain “Right.” Experience will teach
you how to cope with this situation. It’s like learning to balance when you ride a bicycle. Your
instructor will help you and, once you learn, you’ll never forget.
OBJECTIVE 5 - ACCURACY MANEUVERS
Your skill and proficiency with the five basic maneuvers needs to be
improved to the point
where you can accurately position the model. Your instructor will work with
you until you can demonstrate a higher level of skill and accuracy for the
following maneuvers.
1. Level flight, maintaining heading and altitude.
2. Level flight at reduced power. Maintaining heading,
altitude, and trim.
3. Both left and right turns to specific headings.
4. Climbing turns to specific headings.
5. Idle glides that include maneuvering the model to a
specific area and approximate altitude.
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OBJECTIVE 6 - STALLS
“If you pull back on the stick, the airplane goes up. Pull back some more and the
airplane goes down.” That’s a stall. But there’s a little more to it than that. Before
you solo, you need to learn how to recognize and recover from stalls. More
importantly, you should also learn how to avoid unintentional stalls.
OBJECTIVE 7 – INITIAL EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Now that you can fly around and do the basic maneuvers, it’s time to start
learning to handle in-flight emergencies. Sooner or later every pilot will
experience an engine failure (Dead Stick) or an unexpected attitude change.
Your instructor will discuss how to deal with these situations.
OBJECTIVE 8 - TAKE-OFFS
Most models crash during take-off and landing. It’s a fact because the aircraft
is near the ground and, if it’s not properly controlled, there’s very little time
to correct the situation. So, your instructor will explain the forces that affect
your model during take-off and will assist you in making your first take-off.
Take-offs are optional; landings are mandatory.
OBJECTIVE 9 - ORIENTATION MANEUVERS
Your IP will help you fly both a Figure 8 pattern (with alternating left and right
turns) and a rectangular pattern (often called a landing pattern or "Box"). The
purpose of these maneuvers is to discipline your reflexes and judgment. They also
help build skills that will be needed as you prepare for both take-offs and landings.
OBJECTIVE 10 – APPROACHES TO LANDING
Your IP will discuss how to land your model. You will fly a rectangular
pattern again, but this time you will learn how to make a gradual descent for
landing (landing approaches). You will get to practice this maneuver up high
and as you become comfortable with it, the altitude will get lower. When
both you and your IP are satisfied with your progress, you will make your
first landing.
OBJECTIVE 11 – SUPERVISED SOLO FLIGHT
As you get towards the end of your Flight Instruction Program, your instructor
will begin to prepare you for a solo check flight. You will finally make a couple
of flights without having the Buddy Box as a safety net. You will start a flight
beginning with obtaining the frequency pin and ending with returning the pin to
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the board (for 72MHz systems). The objective is to complete the solo flight checklist and earn, at last
your "P". All you have to do is demonstrate good judgment and control, observe the field rules, and
conduct your flight in a safe manner.
OBJECTIVE 12 – FURTHER EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Although you are technically ready to take your Fixed Wing
Requirements Test, your instructor still has a few more skills to
explain. These additional procedures will help you to cope with
the unexpected as well as introduce you to a couple of basic
aerobatic maneuvers.
Even after you have completed your Check Flight, you should
continue to look at your IP as a valuable resource. He is available
to help you make an informed choice on your next airplane. He
can also be called upon to “look over your shoulder” when you
attempt something new.
AT THIS POINT, YOU SHOULD BE PREPARED TO TAKE THE FIXED WING SOLO
REQUIREMENTS TEST
After passing this test, you will be granted Solo Flight Permissions.
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STUDENT TRAINING LOG
Instructor’s Copy
Instructors should use the following Student Training Log as a permanent record of their training activities
with each student. The log is a useful tool for maintaining contact information as well as a means for tracking
student progress.
Student’s Name: ____________________________________ AMA No. __________
Contact Number: _(______)_______-___________
Emer. Contact: __________________________ Phone: _(______)______-___________
Dates: Initial Contact: ____________ First Flight: ____________ Solo: _____________
Status
Training Objective
Comments
Safety / Aircraft Familiarization
Radio & Field Procedures
Initial Flight
Basic Flight Familiarization
Accuracy Maneuvers
Stalls
Emer. Procedures
Take-offs
Orientation Maneuvers
Approach to Landing
Supervised Solo
More Emer. Procedures
Training Notes:
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New Pilot
Pre-Flight Checklist (walk around)
Flying Credentials
Current AMA Member (must be in possession of AMA card while at field)
Current Somerset Park Permit (must be in possession of Permit while at field)
Fixed-Wing Requirements for "P"
The Somerset County Park Commission and the Somerset Signal Senders R/C Club have established the
following criteria for fixed wing aircraft.
Trainees must be able to perform the following maneuvers unaided and without the assistance of a
Buddy Box in the presence of a certified Check Pilot:
•
Perform engine startup and appropriate equipment checks.
•
Taxi to runway and perform normal takeoff.
•
Perform two (2) rectangular patterns from a left to right and right to left direction within the
field boundaries.
•
Perform three (3) horizontal figure eights while maintaining altitude.
•
Perform normal landing approaches from both a left and right direction.
•
Perform a normal landing based on wind conditions.
•
Taxi back to flight station.
Trainees will be allowed two (2) attempts per day to fulfill the above requirements in obtaining their
Pilots status. Those failing are encouraged to practice with a qualified flight instructor and to reschedule
their next attempt for another day.
Overnight
Transmitter (Tx) battery charged
Flight/Receiver battery fully charged
Glow initiator charged
Flight box battery charged
Airplane in good flight condition
Aircraft correctly balanced laterally and CG
Aircraft is structurally sound
Control surfaces are clean (ailerons, elevators, and rudder)
Clevises are secured to rods/horns and are non-binding (sticking)
Battery and receiver correctly installed and securely wrapped in foam
Wheels turn freely without sticking.
Under-carriage is in proper alignment and tightly fitting
Wheel collars are tight and secure
No tears or rips on surfaces
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Propeller is balanced, clean, tightly fitted and has no nicks or cracks
Propeller is appropriate size for installed engine
Spinner is on tightly
Transmitter and receiver have been "bound" and communicate
All servos operate as required; no binding, chattering or buzzing. Arms are screwed down
All "internals" are secured
Wings are tightly secured to fuselage
Power System
Glow:
Engine is not loose
Fuel tubes have no pin-holes
Fuel tubes fit tightly on carb/filter, and muffler
Prop is fitted with compression stroke at approx 2pm position
Flight battery is charged
Switch operates without sticking
Failsafe programmed and enabled
Electric:
Motor is not loose
Wire insulation is not stripped
Battery is fully charged and appropriate for type of aircraft
Failsafe programmed and enabled
The Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) is properly setup for use with the
motor/battery/propeller combination utilized
Receiver is located at the appropriate distance from the ESC to ensure that there is no
interference with the signal between the receiver and the transmitter.
Frequency Protocol
72MHz systems require appropriate frequency pin to be attached to transmitter
When not in use, 72MHz enabled transmitter must be placed in "holding station"
2.4GHz transmitters can remain at pit area
Transmitter Settings
Throttle stick is at 6 o'clock and idle trim is at low setting (verify carb opening)
Switch transmitter (Tx) to on
Verify battery level
Verify Throttle Cut is enabled
Verify correct model is displayed and surfaces move in correct orientation
Verify Trainer switch works and initiates (assumes Buddy Box scenario)
Verify antenna is fully deployed (FM systems)
Assure neck strap/lanyard will not impede movement of sticks or switches
Aircraft Energized (battery installed and aircraft switched on)
Verify control surfaces operate in the correct directions (ailerons, throttle, elevator, rudder)
Verify control surface throws are appropriate for the plane
Perform Range Check - applies to all radio frequencies
Make any necessary trim adjustments (aileron, elevator, rudder)
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Start-up Procedure
Glow: (assumes engine has been broken-in and initially tuned for high and low settings)
Assure aircraft is properly secured (tail hook or buddy legs)
Remove tube from exhaust/muffler nipple
Remove tube from carb/filter nipple
Fuel aircraft to max capacity
Assure fuel has reached carb (open throttle, cover venturi and spin prop 1-2 revolutions)
With Transmitter, verify throttle is at idle setting (eye-ball the carb). Should have
1/32 to 1/16 inch opening between carburetor barrel and carburetor body
Apply glow igniter
Start engine using electric starter, chicken stick or heavy glove
Once started and idling, remove igniter by accessing from behind prop arc
Fully power aircraft and carefully adjust high-speed setting
Once optimal RPM has been achieved, throttle to idle
Apply appropriate trim for idle and stall
Test for lean/rich
Method 1 - pinch fuel line tube, engine RPM should increase within 1-2 seconds,
elevating aircraft to vertical
Method 2 - use tachometer to measure peak RPM and then richen mixture until a
200 – 300 RPM drop is observed
Verify throttle cut is properly functioning
Electric1:
While throttle stick is at lowest position (towards bottom of transmitter), turn on
Transmitter before energizing the plane.
Verify battery is secured to fuselage
Verify throttle works by applying some power to aircraft
Take-off Process
Understand wind direction and speed and how it affects take-off performance
Assure path to flight-line is clear
Re-verify all flight surfaces move in correct orientations
Slowly walk your aircraft to flight-line and stand at "pilot station" while piloting your aircraft
Check wind direction and speed (look at wind-sock and vane)
Familiarize yourself with current pilots and where their aircraft are
Runway starts 25' from pilot stations
Announce loudly and clearly your intention to take-off and direction of travel
(e.g. "Taking off, left to right")
Verify no other pilots are in your path (air or ground), or in conflict with your intentions
Taxi to runway by employing rudder
Verify wind and direction, apply full power, steer with rudder, apply up elevator
Maintain approx 30 degree angle of attack
1
It should be noted that many ESC if not all will not activate the throttle control unless the throttle stick is in the low
position. A radio can be turned on with the throttle stick position up and the ESC will not become active until the throttle
stick is brought down to the lowest position. In any case, proper practice is to have the throttle stick all the way down just as
that for internal combustion engines
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Flight
Once in air, smoothly turn away from pit area
Pull back on power
Adhere and respect flight pattern. Left to right / counter clock-wise (unless opposing wind exists)
Listen for any pattern changes
Focus on your aircraft; listen to nearby pilots
Aerobatics, 3D maneuvers and "testing" to be done along mid-to far portion of flight area.
Stay within park boundaries
Landing
Wind direction dictates approach
Announce well in advance, loudly and clearly, intention and direction; e.g. "Landing, right-left"
Apply appropriate power management for a smooth transition to descent (takes practice)
Down-wind: 1/2 power
Cross-wind: 1/4 power
Into wind: Idle power
Wings level, wings level, wings level
Glide to runway
Slight up elevator just before touch-down (flare)
Touchdown and run-off
Slowly taxi to flight-line
Throttle to idle (glow), no throttle to electric
Throttle-cut and switch to "off" (glow) / disconnect battery from electric
Turn off transmitter
"Walk" aircraft to your pit area
Emergencies
Emergencies take precedence over any flight activity
(e.g. dead-stick, control surface failure / flutter, transmitter failure, "glitch", pilot issues)
Pilot to attempt immediate landing
All other aircraft to assume and maintain pattern at safe and controlled speed / altitude
No take-offs or landings (unless emergency) while pilot and/or aircraft are on any part of field
Other
Restrictions
No flight activity while park personnel are cutting or maintaining the field
Flying field is for electric, glow, and gas powered aircraft including helicopters
No turbine powered aircraft are permitted
All other activity is not permitted while flying is occurring
Any conflicts should be handled politely and with discretion
Park Rangers to be called and notified for any potentially uncomfortable confrontations
Excessive engine run-ups or testing should be done away from flight-line
"Experimental" aircraft or "home-builds" must be cleared by Safety Office prior to flight
Field and Parking
Do not park on grass
Loading and unloading of gear to be done at parking lot
Only those with a "Special Park Permit" are allowed to load and unload at the "post"
Maintain a clean and safe table, pit, flight and field
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Last pilot tasked with closing pin-board and lowering umbrellas
Lost and Found to be placed in "holding station"
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New Pilot check off list
Maneuvers will be illustrated by use of a small model airplane.
Student Pilot Name: ___________________________ Email: ______________________________
Phone Number: _______________________________ Date Started: ________________________
Instructor Pilot (IP): ___________________________ Email: ______________________________
Pre Flight
1) _______
2) _______
3) _______
Set up engine/motor in a safe manner
Explain what a take off is.
Explain what a landing is (controlled crash)
Flying
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
_______
_______
_______
_______
_______
_______
Take off
Fly the “BOX” around the field
Fly a straight line across field up-wind and down-wind.
Horizontal figure eights
Landing
Touch & goes in direction according to pattern flown that day (announce touch & goes)
_______
Remove Student from Buddy Box when instructor is satisfied with Student's ability to
control aircraft.
When the Student is confident they can pass the test, schedule a checkout pilot.
Checkout Pilot: __________________________
Date Checked: _____________
Other notes/comments:
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Flight Achievements to Fixed Wing Aircraft
Flight Log
Student Name:__________________________________ AMA # ___________
Instructor Pilot: __________________________________
Maneuver
General Safety, Set-up, Start-up
Ground control & Taxi
Right Take-off & Right Hand Pattern
L&R Oval Patterns
Left Take-Off & Left Hand Pattern
Figure 8 Patterns
L&R Approach and Go-Around
Right Landing & Right Hand Pattern
Left Landing & Left Hand Pattern
Date
____/____/____
____/____/____
____/____/____
____/____/____
____/____/____
____/____/____
____/____/____
____/____/____
____/____/____
Instructor
_____________
_____________
_____________
_____________
_____________
_____________
_____________
_____________
_____________
I certify that this student is qualified for unsupervised solo flight
___________________________________________________________
__________________
INSTRUCTOR
DATE
___________________________________________________________
__________________
Check Pilot
DATE
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Skills
Figure 8s
Runway
Flying the "Box"
Wind
Runway
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Appendices
Appendix 1: Flying Field
4 Pilot stations and pit area
Parking
Runway
(starts 25' from pilot
stations)
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1140'
Boundary perimeter =
4508'
1350'
1040'
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Appendix 2: Resources:
AMA
http://www.modelaircraft.org/
Somerset Signal Senders
http://somersetsignalsenders.com/index.html
Somerset County Park
http://www.somersetcountyparks.org/parksFacilities/northbranch/NorthBranchPk.html
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Appendix 3: Posted Flying Field Rules
North Branch Park
Flying Field Regulations
In conjunction with all current AMA field and safety regulations, the Somerset County Park
Commission has established the following regulations governing this field.
1) Flyers must have in their possession a current AMA card and Somerset County Park
Commission Flying Field Permit. Park Field Permits may be obtained at the Park
Headquarters.
2) Field hours: Weekdays 10:00 am - 7:30pm
Weekends 10:00 am - 5:30pm
Non-motorized and electric Aircraft: 8:00am until 1 hour before sunset.
3) Aircraft must stay within established flight boundaries.
4) A maximum of four (4) aircraft (any combination of planes, gliders, and helicopters) and one
Helicopter in the "Helicopter Hover Station" (station H) are permitted in the air at any one time.
This regulation may be amended by the Park for specific functions with prior approval.
5) Flying behind flight line or over Helicopter hover area is prohibited.
6) Engine restart on runway is prohibited.
7) Taxiing aircraft from flight station to pit area is prohibited.
8) Operation of aircraft and equipment in areas other than the flight station is prohibited.
9) Expansion type mufflers are required for all engines over .99 cubic inches. Pre-1950 vintage
ignition propelled engines are exempt.
10) A Spinner and/or safety nut is required on all engines.
11) A restraining device must be utilized when starting aircraft.
12) All transmitters (with the exception of 2.4 GHz) are to be impounded at the impound
station. Transmitters (with the exception of 2.4 GHz) not in the impound station must have a
Frequency Pin attached.
13) All transmitters at flight stations must a have frequency/flight station pin attached.
14) All transmitters manufactured before 2000, except those on the Amateur 53 MHz band,
must have a certified R/MA-AMA gold sticker affixed indicating it was manufactured or
modified for operation at a 20 KHz frequency separation. Note: Futaba brand must state
"Narrow Band" in lieu of the gold sticker.
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15) Students/Trainees cannot fly without the assistance of a Certified Pilot.
A Pilot is one who has attained a "P" and/or "H" sticker on their Park Permit.
16) All individuals are considered Students/Trainees until certified by an approved Check Pilot.
17). Station "H" is the hover and student teaching area for helicopters only. All of the above
regulations pertain to the use of station "H" as well as the following:
A) Use of station "H" requires helicopters flown to stay within the helicopter area
boundaries.
B) One helicopter at a time may fly at station "H".
C) All helicopter student/trainees flyers must have Certified Pilot standing with them.
18) Initial turns after take off must be away from the pit / spectator area.
19) All flyers should attempt to keep engine noise levels below 100 DB at a reference distance
of 9 feet.
Failure to comply with any of the above regulations or the AMA Safety Code, will result in a
temporary suspension or permanent revocation of the park permit; subject to Park review.
Park Guests
Current flying field permit holders may bring a guest to fly by adhering to the following
procedures.
A) The permit holder acts as a sponsor and is responsible for the actions of the guest.
B) He/She must have in their possession a valid AMA card and fill out a Park Guest Pass.
C) A Guest will be limited to three visits. After that, the Guest must apply for a Flying Field
Permit at the Park Commission headquarters.
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