Join the jet set

Have you ever noticed that when someone comes to the flying field with a jet model, all other activity stops? Pretty soon, there's a crowd around the model, and everyone waits for the show. There's no denying the fact that jet aircraft have a reputation for sophistication, speed and high technology. Jets are sleek, aerodynamic and-even when they're sitting on the runway-they just look fast. Many RC'ers haven't gotten involved in this facet of aeromodeling because they think that jets are too expensive, complicated and difficult to fly, but the past few years have benefited from amazing advances in powerplant reliability and model construction. Turbine-powered jets have recently seen a lot of press, such as Rich Uravitch's article in our January 2000 issue. Although turbines are scale in every way-sound, function and even their smell-they can exceed the budgets of many sport modelers. Another, less expensive, alternative is the ducted-fan unit. These tried-and-true powerplants have evolved to offer modelers superior performance and reliability. This month, columnist George Leu tells all you need to know to get involved in ducted-fan jet modeling. A former president of the Jet Pilots Organization, George explains how ducted-fan powerplants work, offers information on jet kits and prices and even provides a list of jet events you can attend to get a first-hand look at some models. If you've always wanted to belong to the "jet set," there's no better time to get started.

INDOOR CHOPPER

If going fast isn't your cup of tea, how about hovering? Imagine this: you're sitting in your living room flying your model from its launch pad on top of the TV to and from the coffee table. Science fiction? Think again: indoor RC flying has reached new heights with the Ikarus Piccolo helicopter, reviewed on page 52 by Dave Baron. Powered by two supplied motors and a 3-cell Tadiran 800mAh pack, Dave has flight times of more than 25 minutes on a single charge. Now when it's raining, you won't need to rely on your flight sim to get some stick time; just charge up the batteries and fly inside. Dave, an expert heli pilot, also notes that a properly set up and trimmed Piccolo could be used as a helicopter trainer.

TAIL SLIDE

For our aerobatic audience, in recent issues, our IMAC Aerobatics contributor has demystified the rolling circle, explained how to do a snap roll and how to perfect your split-S. This month, Dan Wolanski tackles the tail slide-a maneuver that is seldom done correctly. Often misunderstood, the tail slide is easier to accomplish than you may have thought. Turn to page 42 for a pilot's view of two variations of the tail slide.

AEROTOWING

Who says that powered aircraft and gliders can't share the same airspace? This month, Dave Garwood explains why the team approach may be the best way to get your sailplane airborne. In his "Introduction to Aerotowing" on page 36, Dave explains how a sailplane pilot and towplane pilot work together-the way pilots of full-size sailplanes and towplanes do-to reach new heights. This facet of our hobby has experienced tremendous growth of late, and Dave provides a list of events that you can attend this year.

Those of us in the Northeast and other snowbound parts of the country are beginning to feel the spring thaw, and we're trying to finish our latest projects and are eagerly awaiting flying weather. See you at the field!

Copyright Air Age Publishing May 2000
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved