Flight Modes

Eric wrote,
Calibrate the modes. With modern computer radio, you can select an assortment of different flight modes, ie fixed wing power, f/w glider, v-tail, flying wing, helicopter, quad, etc etc.
So all the 'mixing' for driving the various control surfaces is done in the transmitter, not in the aircraft. This is much more flexible, in that you can mix anything to anything, and even which stick or switch controls it, and the transmitter remembers which settings to apply, depending on which model you have selected. You can also change the percentage of the mix at the field, without resorting to screwdrivers and wire-cutters!
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Each time you switch on, though, you should still check that your flight controls move in the right directions!

Even from within the aircraft model memory you can assign switch or a rotary switch to change modes. Why would you want to do this? Suppose you have a Lancaster that has major pitch changes between U/C down and U/C up. Assign position 1 to take off with the correct trim and control movement to allow that mode without wetting yourself. Now you're ready to up U/C you need position 2 to retract with delay on one side while correcting with a bit of rudder and changing the trims in unison to give you proper flight control. Position 3 could be normal flight plus powering the turrets. Position 4 might be 2 engines out on one side with extended rudder sub trim and extra rudder. Position 5, landing, U/C down plus correct trims and possibly extra elevator for the flare.
These are just some of the possibilities, when you are flying your master piece you need all the help you can get, Flight modes can do this. Of course you also need sound to tell you what switch you've pressed, turned or flipped!

Special builder wrote "Weather is a constant consideration. Is the insurance scam and club fees worth the limited amount of flying time available?"
Living on an overcrowded island as most of you do I think insurance is a must, and try getting it anywhere else other than though the BFMA. I certainly would not dream of flying without it. As for flying time, yes certain parts of the UK can seem very wet at times, as for wind stopping play, once you're able to fly unsupervised you'll get much more flying in. Eric seems to get plenty. Remember that Vintage models are not well suited to windy conditions, the same goes (but not quite so much) for 3 channel models. You eventually settle on a hack that can be flown just about any time and a number of other planes that require the selection of the right conditions.

Eric seems to get plenty. - I hope you meant flying, Tony! (see been flying, today!)