Flight; Landing - GREAT PLANES Escapade Instruction Manual

the pilot (that would be you!) standing behind the plane, fully
advance the throttle to start the motor. As soon as the motor
is at full power, the hand launcher should gently toss the
plane into the air at a level or slightly nose-up attitude. Be
certain the model is being launched into the wind and be
immediately ready to make corrections to keep the airplane
flying straight, level and into the wind.
When the model has gained adequate flying speed under
its own power, gently pull the elevator stick back until the
airplane starts a gradual climb. Many beginners tend to pull
too hard causing the model to stall, so be gentle on the
elevator and don't panic. If you do pull too hard and you
notice the model losing speed, release the elevator stick
and allow the model to regain airspeed.
Continue a gradual climb and establish a gentle turn (away
from yourself) until the airplane reaches an altitude of 75 to
100 feet.
The main purpose of the first few flights is to learn how the
model behaves and to adjust the trims for level flight. After
the model has climbed to a safe altitude reduce the throttle

Flight

slightly to slow the model, yet maintain altitude. The
Escapade should fly well and maintain adequate airspeed
at about 1/2 to 3/4 throttle.
Adjust the elevator trim so the model flies level at the
throttle setting you are using. Adjust the rudder trim so the
model flies straight. It may take a few minutes to get the
trims adjusted, but this should be your first priority once at
a comfortable altitude. Continue to fly around, executing
turns and making mental notes (or having your assistant
take notes for you) of what additional adjustments or C.G.
changes may be required to fine tune the model so it flies
the way you like.
If the Escapade reaches a high enough altitude, you may
periodically cut off the motor power and glide. This may
extend the flight time by several minutes, especially if you fly
into a rising air current.
Because the Escapade flies slowly, it requires little room to
land. Begin the landing approach by flying downwind at an
altitude of approximately 20 feet [6 meters]. When the
airplane is approximately 50 to 100 feet [15 to 30 meters]
past you, gradually reduce power and make the "final"
35

Landing