The club of "I did not do a proper pre-flight" has many current members. I joined this club many years ago when I took off with reversed ailerons. I was lucky and could land before damage was done. Others have not been so fortunate.

There is a reason why a pre-flight and pre-takeoff check list exists for 1:1 scale aircraft. Stuff can happen so we need to be vigilant.

Not only must throw directions be checked but throw amounts need to be verified.

Ever start a 100cc engine and it is a full throttle? Fortunately my friend was restraining the plane when I was starting it. This episode was a wake-up call as I thought I was being careful in verifying correct model and had done my pre-flight checks. Having 2 aircraft with very similar names and programming set up in your radio can cause such event. Never assume nothing.

Happy landings and remember, "safety is no accident".

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