Fun Fly

Fun fly can be thought of in many parts -- from just plain fun to highly competitive.  Experienced pilots tend to use  purpose designed 'fun fly' models often referred to as 'Stunt' planes -- capable of doing all sorts of 'gymnastics' in the air ranging from hovering like a helicopter to loops and rolls at speeds that send most pilots dizzy (and the pilots are standing firmly on the ground!). 

But to enjoy fun flying a specialist model is not necessary.  At the Doncaster 'Fun Fly' competitions all competitors from novices to experts participate -- with many novices using their first 'Trainer' models and flying under the supervision of Instructors.  To give you and idea of some of the fun we have, the events at a recent Doncaster Fun Fly were:

• Climb and Glide -- 30 second climb and then glide for as long as you can (Advanced pilots get to glide inverted -- and two landed that way up !)

• Most loops in 60 seconds (and most Cuban 8s in 90 seconds for Advanced) -- if this sounds easy have someone time you doing Cuban 8s for 90 seconds -- it gets hairy!

• Fast and Slow -- the ratio of times for flying between two points, the first time as fast as you can, and then as slow as you can (Advanced pilots inverted -- the record ratio was slow over 6 times slower than fast!)

The highly competitive end involves even more intricate set procedures and specialised equipment.  At the 2001 and 2002 VMAA trophy event this has comprised take-off, three sets of roll-loop-roll in a row, and then landing.  Winning times of around 13 seconds are achieved with specialist models.  For 2003 it is going to get harder -- covering the roll-loop-roll combination plus cuban 8's and spins.  This is quite an event to watch.

(Click on photos for enlargement - 640 x 480)

*** 10 January, 2010 10:27 PM +1000 ***

Last updated 10 January, 2010

Home  |  About |  Feedback  |  Contact Us  |  Site Map  |  Disclaimer  |  © 2010