PRO PILOT TURNING TIPS

The keys to flying smooth, consistent moves every time

- DAVE SCOTT

Last summer I flew noon demos at several RC events and was alarmed by how many pilots struggled with or lost control of their models during simple turns, leading therefore to additional difficulties trying to line up with the runway, handling wind, etc. As one who diagnoses pilots’ flying skills for a living, it was obvious to me that the problem wasn’t that they needed more practice, but that they lacked an understanding of basic flight control. If you’ve ever watched a proficient pilot fly (you can often tell by their mirror image perfect landings), you may have noticed how their general flying appears casually routine. In other words, they make it look easy. That’s because their control of the airplane has become mostly automatic. For example, instead of reacting to the airplane every time they perform a turn, proficient pilots simply repeat the same turn control inputs and the airplane predictably and consistently follows along. By focusing on controlling the airplane and repeating the same control inputs, you too can experience the same predictable results as pro fliers, and therefore experience greater proficiency in wind, easier transitions into new and different aircraft types, and more consistent landing setups.

PROCEDURE (AILERON) TURNS