If you’ve been holed up like most of your mates for the better part of 2020 carry out these checks before each flight to increase your chances of success.
Quick C.R.A.P Checklist:
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Control Surfaces –Test your controls and make sure everything is secure. Ensure linkages are connected and won’t fall off!
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Rips and Tears –Examine the body of your plane closely for rips, tears and crinkles.
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Angles –Look for structural weaknesses. Check the angle of your tail and make sure it’s not crooked.
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Power –Check all electronic connections and make sure everything works correctly.
Full Pre-flight Checklist
Before Powering up
- Check battery voltage – Is your battery fully charged?
- Check Transmitter Power – Is your battery low?
After Power up
- Check surfaces – Are they lose? Check pushrods, linkages, clevises and hinges
- Check control direction – stand behind your plane and move controls so they match those of the craft
- Check airframe – are there any noticeable issues with loose wings, tail or motor mounts etc?
- Check propeller – is it tightly attached?
- Check landing gear – (if applicable) check wheels are free to move and gear doesn’t wobble
- Check motor – does it spin freely?
- Check servos – do they move freely?
- Check centre of gravity – check balance of the aircraft with the battery installed
Environmental Check
- Check for people – make sure there will be no people under your flight
- Check wind direction – also check for areas where wind may be turbulent or unpredictable
- Plan climb-out and pattern – think about direction of take-off and your general fright pattern
- Plan landing – think about which direction you will approach from an where you will land
Reference – flitetest.com
