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MAAALogo.
The MAAA want to make sure that
all members enjoy fun, safe flights.
That’s why we have implemented a
model of procedures specifically for
helicopters.
We’ve asked MAAA member Brendan
Tucker, to share some tips on flying
safely.
For asmooth flight
Always check you have selected
the correct model memory in your
radio. Prior to starting your engine
or connecting your battery for a
flight, check the controls are moving
in the correct direction. Also ensure
your gyro is moving in the correct
direction. This is beneficial to
ensure your flight performance.
Failsafe function
Ensure the failsafe function on your
radio has been activated correctly.
If your radio signal is lost this is
especially important. Most pilots
leave all the channels on failsafe
hold except the throttle which is
usually set to a pre-set value. For
a nitro powered helicopter, set the
failsafe value for the throttle servo
so it will return to the idle position
when the radio is switched off. For
an electric model, remove the main
and tail blades from the helicopter.
Let the motor run up to speed and
switch the radio off. The esc should
stop the motor.
Beawareof your
surroundings
Don’t fly within nine metres of
yourself or others. The MAAA MOP014
general flying rules state that
helicopters flying outdoors are not
to be flown any closer than nine
metres from all pilots operating at
the time.
Regularmaintenance
Maintaining your aircraft can ensure
more flight time and less rebuilding
by avoiding an accident because
of poor maintenance. Check and
tighten any bolts or screws regularly,
especially any bolts associated with
the rotor head. Ensure bearings are
checked and lubricated regularly
and replaced whenever the
manufacturer requires. Check the
transmission system for correct
gear mesh, a chipped tooth on a
gear or any sign of wear on drive
gears. Check servo arms for cracks,
loose mounting bolts and servo arm
screws.
Better safe thansorry!
If something does not seem right
during a flight, land immediately
and check over your helicopter to
find the problem. It will never go
away on its own. There is nothing
fun about crashing your RC model
and you could save yourself or
somebody else serious injury.
helicopter
flight
school
FROM VERTICAL TAKE-OFF TO FLYING SIDEWAYS, MODEL
HELICOPTERS ARE BECOMING INCREASINGLY POPULAR
AMONG MAAA MEMBERS. HELICOPTER FLIGHT REQUIRES A
DIFFERENT SKILL SET TO OTHER MODEL AIRCRAFT AND WITH
THE ABILITY TO CONDUCT SOME FANTASTIC ACROBATICS
THEIR POPULARITY WILL CONTINUE TO HEAD SKY HIGH.
Pictures courtesy of Ross Felix from the
RFDS fundraising day in South Australia. Our
members were able to raise nearly $10 000
for the Royal Flying Doctors Service at an
event in May.
MAAA Insurance
Do you have enquiries in relation to insurance?
Do you want to know if you can fly in
all fields across Australia? To make sure you’re not grounded, the MAAA looks after all of
your insurance needs. Make sure you visit
to answer all your questions on MAAA.
MAAALogo.
