Just finished the test flight of my HET F-18. What a nice flying jet. It is a ball to fly and hauls butt.
I didn't need to bungee launch, it will hand launch without any problems. I am sure that is dependent on the power you have.
I can't say enough good things about it. Fun to fly, hauls *****, and lands nice and slow. I give it a 10.

Art, you need to get out and christen yours, soon. let us know how it goes. I hope you enjoy yours as much as I do mine.

I will try and get some video soon and post it.