Model Forum / Radio Controlled / Air Models / September 2006

Here I was hoping to test my recently built Impala. A quick run up to
the local beach scotched that idea. It was a strong wind... the sort
that gets you yearning for the return of mini-skirts    >:-)

The reliable old Flair Heron was taken instead as this has proved itself
capable of coping with a strong wind on the slopes.

The air was clear after overnight rain and the views were superb,
although there was a lot of dark, threatening cloud about, as
compensation the heather is in bloom and the moors were covered in a
purple carpet.... pretty.

Clambering onto the flying site I reckoned I was definitely mad ! The
wind was very strong, probably the strongest I had ever attempted to fly
in. One good thing about this site is it has ample flat and sheltered
landing area.

Cap cinched up until the eyeballs bulge in the hope that it will stay on
and the glider was put together. Range check completed it was time to
give it a go. Here's where the fun starts, lifting it off the ground
allowed the wind to get hold of it and it was a battle to get it up to
shoulder height and hang on to it while getting ready to launch... it
was a battle I came close to losing !  I noticed the wing was lifting
away from the fuselage despite being held on by 4 very strong wing
bands... should be OK when it gets airborn !

A quick lunge and the Heron was off out into it's natural element. It
might be an oldish design but it sure does fly well   >:-)
A good session of flying and it was time to land, turn into wind and
just hold some up elevator and the glider slowly dropped back to earth.

Time to pack up... I was not going to chance damaging the glider with
another wrestling match while trying to get it into a position to
launch.

The Heron and I survive to fly another day and the Impala is still
awaiting more favourable conditions for it's maiden flight. The moors
looked superb with thier purple coating    >:-))

Reg