Making 1st Solo Flight

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MAKING YOUR FIRST SOLO FLIGHT

A control-line plane is flown in a counter-clockwise direction, taking off from the ground. Be certain any wind is behind airplane on take-off. After the controls are checked out, stand on the marker in the center of the circle, and have your helper start the engine. When your engine is running properly, the helper should point the nose of the airplane slightly away from the center of the circle, keeping the lines taut. The flyer once more checks the lines with the helper to be certain an up movement of the arm results in the up-movement of the elevator, and vice versa.

During flying, lines must always be taut. Slack lines will result in complete loss of control and a crash. If necessary, the flyer should step back to keep the lines taut. Upon the flyer's signal, the helper should simply release model. Do not push, as it may result in a crack-up. With the flyer holding the handle in the neutral position, the model will take off smoothly from the ground within a couple of feet and will climb of its own accord.

To make the model climb higher, simply pivot your arm slowly upward. To make the model descend, pivot your arm slowly downward. Make all motions smoothly and the plane will respond immediately without any tendency to jerkiness.
Continue flying in a level position about 10 or 15 ft. high until the fuel supply is used up and the engine stops. The model will assume a smooth glide path and start to descend. It may be necessary for the flyer to move backward slightly to keep the lines taut. When the model has descended to about 2 or 3 ft. from the ground, lift your arm to give full up-control and your model will gracefully settle into a three-point landing. When the model has stopped, the flyer should remain in position while the helper retrieves the airplane. Both of you should walk back to the circle keeping the lines taut so that they don't get tangled. The model should be wiped free from oil and accumulated dust and dirt.

THIS FLYING PROCEDURE SHOULD BE FOLLOWED UNTIL YOU BECOME AN EXPERT IN LEVEL FLYING AS DESCRIBED.

At the end of the flying day, carefully wind the lines. Drain fuel from the tank and cover the engine with a cloth to prevent dirt from entering the engine.