ORIGINAL: ClearedForTheApproach
I intend to violate one of the core principles of R/C aircraft flying, and I'm hoping you can help me succeed.
I have zero R/C flying time; however, I want to learn to fly without using an instructor. And, to complicate matters, I've modified my Alpha Trainer to add floats and intend to take off from a 1-acre pond on our property. So my first-ever R/C takeoff will be from water ditto for the hoped-for landing. On a modified trainer. Now, to degrade things further, I am also a rated pilot in full scale aircraft. (I'm told this is a handicap?) Single-engine, multi-engine, commercial, instrument, and seaplane ratings. The only other factors are overhead power lines (which are mostly out of the way) and lots of trees, although a reasonable sized clear area is adjacent to the pond.
Here is my question, and I ask you to please help:
Given all of your knowledge of flying R/C aircraft, what would you recommend that I do to increase the chances that I successfully manage the climb-out, maneuvers, and return for landing? I know it is recommended to have an instructor please overlook that and give me your best advice on how to do it without one.
Thank you.
The guys who are determined to teach themselves don't come here asking questions, they go out and wreck some balsa. Then they come back & tell us they did it alone, with no problems on the first flight. And spectacular success since.
You, however, don't want to do it alone. You've already started, by coming here and asking questions. So ask away.
Oh, and when the plane's coming toward you, turn your back to it and look at it over your shoulder. Maybe then you won't overcontrol the wrong way with rudder or ailerons.
Dave Olson