Radio Control: Helicopters
THE TIME to catch up on those building projects approaches as I write this. Those of us below the Mason-Dixon line and to the southwest have to force ourselves to build, because good flying weather seems to go on and on. If you're like me, as long as one machine is flyable, building projects will gather dust on the workbench awaiting late returns from the flying field. For those of us who would rather be flying, good weather is bad for building (or writing). Today it's raining.
Radio Control: Helicopters
"TO BRING HELICOPTER fliers together for companionship, exchange of ideas, and to participate in fun competition. To help those who need help with their machines, and to encourage them to progress with their flying skills by observing others." These were the stated objectives of a contest I attended in Statesville, NC in October 1981. For those of us attending the Schluter Cup Meet, I would say the objectives were certainly met. I had a wonderful time and look forward to another Schluter Cup Meet at Statesville in 1982, and perhaps to other SCMs which will take place at various locations around the country during the coming years. Thanks to the Statesville Model Flyers RC Club, Walt Schoonard of Schluter U.S.A., and to the contestants and spectators for the great time.
Radio Control: Helicopters
Small helicopters do have advantages. This has been my year to get back to basics, due to another round of business travel. Fortunately, I have been able to get in a bunch (for me) of flying and haven't been home enough to repair it and the servo which brought about its untimely crash. So, the Cricket and the Kalt Baron 20 found themselves doing a bit more flying than usual. As a result, this column will deal with some further impressions on those machines.
Radio Control: Helicopters
THIS MONTH'S COLUMN is devoted to a letter I received from Horace Hagen, who spent 10 days in Finland last May by invitation of the Finnish Aeronautic Association. The following comments and the photos are from Horace's trip. I hope you will enjoy them as I did. While attending the 1981 FAI/CIAM meeting in Paris, my friend Matti Jyllila had invited me to visit Finland and fly in a Helicopter fly-in/contests. My reply was "Yes," followed by "What about the expense of the trip?" Matti replied that the air fare could be paid by the Finnish Aeronautical Association. Needless to say, I was quite surprised but a little skeptical, because I did not know whether Matti could convince the people back home; however, a few months later Matti called to tell me the ticket was ready.
Radio Control: Helicopters
SORRY ABOUT THAT. Yes, I'm sorry if you missed all of those terrific Helicopter contests last year; but what about this season? Sure hope you will give at least one contest a whirl this year. Whether you're a beginner or expert, there is an enjoyment and challenge that cannot be met in any other way. I still remember attending my first Helicopter contest just two months after building my first chopper. No doubt the judges at the 1976 NRCHA Nationals remember the new records set in the hanger where we beginners attempted our hover flights. (Records like: the most judges to squeeze behind one chair or through the nearest exit.)
