On Saturday April 12 2025, the University of Central Florida reserved our field for their final stage of the Experimental Aircraft, Design, Build and Fly program. There were multiple teams that came out in wonder if their aircraft would pass the test of flight.
The criteria for design and build was only restricted to a 40″ wing span. The motor, esc, battery, receiver and speed sensor were supplied. They did get to choose the propeller size.
After some very interesting preparations and final build, the aircraft went thru many stages of testing prior to flight. One of interest was the weight test. The aircraft was suspended by the main wings and 1.5 times the aircraft static weight was then added to the aircraft. The goal was to be able to suspend the aircraft and the added weight with the wings sustaining the stress. The group could at any time suspend the test if they thought the aircraft would be damaged.
The aircraft, when ready for flight, were piloted by the same person. I give credit to this pilot for doing a fantastic job. Once in flight the aircraft was subjected to a level speed run and the results recorded. The speed I heard were in excess of 70 miles per hour.
A lot of fun was had by all, including the spectators who go to witness the future of RC aviation. Enjoy the pictures below. PS, the ball of clay was removed from an aircraft prior to the second flight. During preparation for flight, it was added to the tail of the aircraft in an attempt to establish center of gravity. Unfortunately, the plane did not respond well on the first flight.
