This month, I learned a couple of new terms in model airplane speak. The first is “the loop.” This isn’t the aerobatic maneuver, it’s a term used in aerotow.
It’s a loop of line roughly 6 inches long that attaches to the tow plane’s release mechanism and also there is one on the glider release that the towline connects the two loops. Normal procedure is the glider unhooks and the tow plane keeps the towline. When things go bad the tow plane can also release the towline.
I learned this at the glider aerotow event at the Red Apple Flyers field in Wenatchee, Washington. If you haven’t attended an aerotow event, you’re in for a treat. It’s a graceful dance between the tug and the glider. There were four tugs to spread the workload—two smaller and two extra-large ones for the big gliders!
[pic 1]
Gene Cope’s Big Tug.
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It’s easy to see fuel-level windows on both sides of the tug to keep track of the fuel in this fast-paced action.
[pic 3]
Kevin Forsyth watches Dean Wichmann’s big Blanik 4.2-meter sailplane after steading the wingtip. At 23 pounds, this sailplane is an easy tow for Gene’s Big Tug.
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Dean helps Jack Santi hook the loop on his Ka-8 sailplane
The Willamette Modelers Club held the season’s last of three FF contests 10 miles south of Albany, Oregon. This is where I learned the second term: good air. That’s where the active thermal air lifts the airplanes for a longer flight.
This event brought back memories of my youth. Check out a FF event if you don’t have your own memories of the FF art of modeling. Get more information at the Willamette club’s website at willamettemodlersclub.weebly.com.
[pic5]
John Buskell’s high-energy launch.
[pic6 (see PDF for intended position, but it looks crappy)]
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To the right is Mike Hazel, District XI’s FF/CL event coordinator
Below is Will Tilse with his colorful Star Duster 900. Powered by a K&B 40, this is a great-flying design.
Until next month, happy building season.