5. FLIGHT INSTRUCTION

In the beginning, all your training flights will start and end with your instructor in control. Until you are signed off for solo flight, your instructor will control the model during takeoff and will fly it to a safe altitude before giving flight control to you. As you gain more experience and you can consistently anticipate your model’s needed corrections and responses, you’ll be given more and more unassisted stick time. As you continue to make progress your instructor will know when you’re ready to take off by yourself. It’s a big step!

Most trainers and sport planes are designed to be stable, and once you fully advance the throttle, they will want to become airborne almost by themselves. Apply the throttle slowly while maintaining a straight takeoff path. If the plane veers off course, add a touch of rudder (usually, a little right correction is needed). Once the model gets light on its wheels, pull slightly back on the elevator stick; the model’s nose will come up, and the plane will become airborne. Keep the wings level with small inputs of aileron, and let the model climb out at a shallow angle. If necessary, apply a little down (push the stick forward slightly), to keep the model from climbing too steeply.

Once in the air you’ll learn to fly the traffic pattern. A good instructor will talk you through the various maneuvers and as you get more comfortable flying at lower altitudes, you’ll transition to the landing pattern. The instructor will get you lined up for your first few attempts and will remind you to control the airspeed with your elevator (model nose high or low), and adjust your descent rate with the throttle adjustments. It will only be a matter of time before you make your first landing. It will be easier than you first thought. Once you solo and can fly your airplane unassisted, you’ll want to continue working with your instructor so he can help you improve your skills with more advanced flight training.