Owner's manual

30
Takeoff
Before you get ready to takeoff, see how the model handles
on the ground by doing a few practice runs at low speeds
on the runway. If necessary, adjust the nose wheel so the
model will roll straight down the runway. If you need to calm
your nerves before the maiden fl ight, shut the engine down
and bring the model back into the pits. Top off the fuel, then
check all fasteners and control linkages for peace of mind.
Remember to takeoff into the wind. When you’re ready, point
the model straight down the runway and then gradually
advance the throttle. Gain as much speed as your runway
and fl ying site will practically allow before gently applying up
elevator, lifting the model into the air. At this moment it is likely
that you will need to apply some right rudder to counteract
engine torque. Be smooth on the elevator stick, allowing the
model to establish a gentle climb to a safe altitude before
turning into the traffi c pattern.
Flight
For reassurance and to keep an eye on other traffi c, it is a
good idea to have an assistant on the fl ight line with you. Tell
him to remind you to throttle back once the plane gets to a
comfortable altitude. While full throttle is usually desirable for
takeoff, most models fl y more smoothly at reduced speeds.
Take it easy with the Cirrus SR22 ARF for the fi rst few fl ights,
gradually getting acquainted with it as you gain confi dence.
Adjust the trims to maintain straight and level fl ight. After
fl ying around for a while, and while still at a safe altitude
with plenty of fuel, practice slow fl ight and execute practice
landing approaches by reducing the throttle and lowering the
fl aps to see how the model handles at slower speeds. Add
power to see how she climbs as well. Continue to fl y around,
executing various maneuvers and making mental notes (or
having your assistant write them down) of what trim or C.G.
changes may be required to fi ne tune the model so it fl ies
the way you like. Mind your fuel level or battery power, but
use this fi rst fl ight to become familiar with your model before
landing.
Landing
The Cirrus SR22 ARF may be landed with or without fl aps.
Flaps increase lift and drag, so the plane may be landed
slower, thus reducing rollout after touchdown (not as much
of a factor on grass runways). The Cirrus SR22 is a clean
airplane and does not slow down quickly. To initiate a landing
approach, lower the throttle while on the downwind leg. If
using fl aps, allow the model to slow before extending them.
Continue to lose altitude, but maintain airspeed by keeping
the nose down as you turn onto the crosswind leg. Make
your fi nal turn toward the runway (into the wind) keeping the
nose down to maintain airspeed and control. If using fl aps,
keep a few additional “clicks” of power so the model doesn’t
slow too much. Level the attitude when the model reaches
the runway threshold, modulating the throttle as necessary
to maintain your glide path and airspeed. If you are going
to overshoot, smoothly advance the throttle (always ready
on the right rudder to counteract torque) and retract the
fl aps when enough airspeed is gained. Climb out to make
another attempt. When the model is a foot or so off the deck,
smoothly increase up elevator until it gently touches down.
Note: If ever the occasion arises when a dead-stick landing
must be performed, do not extend the fl aps until certain the
model will be able to reach the landing zone (on dead-stick
landings it is common to land with no fl aps at all). Without
power, fl aps can unexpectedly reduce the model’s range,
thus causing you to come up short of the fi eld.
One fi nal note about fl ying your model. Have a goal or fl ight
plan in mind for every fl ight. This can be learning a new
maneuver(s), improving a maneuver(s) you already know,
or learning how the model behaves in certain conditions
(such as on high or low rates). This is not necessarily to
improve your skills (though it is never a bad idea!), but more
importantly so you do not surprise yourself by impulsively
attempting a maneuver and suddenly fi nding that you’ve run
out of time, altitude or airspeed. Every maneuver should be
deliberate, not impulsive. For example, if you’re going to do a
loop, check your altitude, mind the wind direction (anticipating
rudder corrections that will be required to maintain heading),
remember to throttle back at the top, and make certain you
are on the desired rates (high/low rates). A fl ight plan greatly
reduces the chances of crashing your model just because
of poor planning and impulsive moves. Remember to think.
Have a ball!
But always stay in control and fl y in a safe manner.
GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!