RC Model Reviews

Hello all,

Made the mistake of flying my AXN floater for the first time in the wind. This was the first flight and I am a RC beginner. Wind was blowing at about 15 MPH but I was eager to get into the air. The AXN climbed quickly to about 200 feet, and I was able to make some gentle turns before the plane started to drift out of my 50 acre flying area. I wasn't able to get it home, and although I cut throttle, just watched it circle out of sight. Must be stuck in a tree somewhere, but I could not find.

Is it OK to fly this plane in a 15 MPH wind? Maybe I need a larger field to learn in. Any comments would be appreciated!

UAVman

As you discovered, experience is required to fly in a 15 mph wind but it is perfectly possible.
As a beginner anything over 5 mph is probably not suitable, you must master basic orientation and strong wind will prevent this learning process.
Cutting the power and not keeping the plane heading into the wind was a basic mistake (as you now realise).
Search the internet for a radio control how to fly articles, or better find a local club to join.

Many thanks for your reply Bill. Next flight will be in gentle breeze, or no breeze. Will take your advice on watching how-to-fly articles and joining a local club. The closest one is The Alliance Balsa Bees, and I'm planning to attend their next meeting. Had so much fun building the AXN I'll likely do another. Meanwhile I'll work with the FPV quad copter; its much easier to control.

Good luck, glad you haven't been discouraged by your loss.
It's a good idea to stick a mobile telephone number on the model and the offer of a reward for its safe return.

Hi Bill,

Another good tip. The receiver alone was worth $60.

We have a lot of windy days in the winter in NE Ohio, so there is no rush to replace the AXN. I'll take my time building a new, and better one; I enjoy doing it in careful steps anyway. Shipping time will not be a concern. And will use some of The Bearded One's upgrade suggestions.

Looking forward to those balmy summer days with no wind at all!