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How to Hand Launch a Glider

RC gliders typically have large wingspans and are very light weight. These planes can be launched via a high start, a winch, a tow plane or by hand. Each launch method attempts to get air flowing over the control surfaces as quickly as possible. A high start consists of a length of surgical tubing attached to a longer length of nylon thread. The tubing is stretched and the plane released. A long length of nylon thread connects the glider to the winch spool, the winch quickly takes up the thread and accelerates the glider through the air. A tow plane can also be used to bring the glider to altitude. Hand launching a glider needs no extra equipment but requires a bit of coordination.

Things You'll Need

RC transmitter
RC glider

Instructions

- 1
  Perform a preflight check of your plane and RC equipment. Make sure your batteries are fully charged and that there is no visible damage to the aircraft. Use the transmitter to move each control surface, make sure the surfaces move in the direction you expect.
- 2
  Determine the wind direction. You need to launch the glider directly into the wind. The wind will provide the air flow over the control surfaces needed to make them useful. A cross-wind launch can cause the glider to pitch away from the wind and crash because the pilot has little or no control.
- 3
  Hold the glider at or near its center of gravity and point the nose of the plane slightly up. Take a running start into the wind and give the glider a firm throw. The glider should climb slightly from the nose being pointed up.
- 4
  Take control of the transmitter sticks as quickly as possible. Depending on your location and flying conditions you may need to supply rudder or elevator input to keep the glider in the air. Be patient and let the glider build up some airspeed before flying it out of the wind.

Aviation