We are at a new crossroads in the size of giant sized R/C aircraft. More planes are pushing the 55-pound weight limit. Over the last several years these large aircraft have proven to be as safe as any other sized R/C aircraft and in most cases even safer.
There is a definite trend for the larger aircraft. Look at the size of planes at the T.O.C. and Top Gun competitions. IMAA Fun-Flys and Rallys are also seeing many more of the larger aircraft. More twin engine aircraft are showing up that are quite possibly pushing or over the 55 pound weight limit. The larger aircraft have become quite common in our circles.
What is happening now is larger multi-cylinder engines are showing up on the market. These engines do weigh quite a bit more and we are starting to notice the larger aircraft are pushing the 55 pound weight limit.
Many pilots have approached me about their concern, and even a few manufacturers stating their concern of having to lighten up their kits to accommodate the larger engines that the membership desires. From a safety point of view, I do not want to see this happen. Skimping on the structural integrity of these airplanes is only asking for trouble. Many kits are at the limit and depending on glues used, building techniques, or 'beefing-up' components will push these aircraft over the 55-pound weight limit. I would rather see a beefed-up airplane at 60 pounds than a plane that used lite-ply instead of birch aircraft plywood in the engine box, spars etc. at 55 pounds. Some will not let it be known that his plane is slightly over 55 pounds thus forcing him to be dishonest because his beautiful paint job weighed 2 pounds too much.
What I have proposed to the AMA is that the AMA raise the weight limit to 75 pounds and possibly raise the experimental class weight limit also. Canada is already at this weight limit and has had no adverse effects. This will allow some room for better building techniques, as well as safer flying airplanes. It is common knowledge that an over powered plane is safer than an under powered plane.
The rules in the IMAA Safety Code were not randomly implemented. The rules are there for good reasons, primarily for the safety ofthe pilot, spotter, and spectators.
There is a requirement of at least 6 flights before an aircraft can be permitted to fly at an IMAA sanctioned event. The event director does not have the option to waive this requirement. If a plane must be test flown, it should be at the end of the day when all activities are officially shut down.
The following is a true example. A big, beautiful airplane shows up at an event just itching to make that maiden flight. The pilots and spectators all want to see this bird fly. The Contest Director shuts down the flight line and proceeds to violate the IMAA Safety Code by allowing this plane to make its maiden flight.
In SECTION 3 of the IMAA Safety Code pertaining to safety checks, it is stated all aircraft are to have been flight tested, and flight trimmed with a minimum of six (6) flights before the model is allowed to fly at an IMAA Sanctioned event. Proof of flight is also required stating: The completing and signing of the Declaration section of the Safety Inspection form by the pilot (or owner) shall document, as fact, that the noted aircraft has been successfully flight-tested and proven airworthy prior to the IMAA event. This leads us to the IMAA Safety Inspection form which has a section called the DECLARATION: "I hereby certify that the Model Aircraft designated above has been constructed in accordance with large scale techniques, has successfully flown a minimum of six times, and all of the equipment contained therein meets or exceeds the IMAA safety guidelines as well as AMA Guidelines for Sanctioned events. " The pilot then signs this declaration. If this is not signed by the pilot/owner then the safety inspector should not sign the form thus prohibiting the aircraft to fly because all giant size radio-controlled model aircraft must pass an "Airworthiness" safety inspection by flight safety personnel.
The aircraft, on its maiden flight, was flown through some high performance maneuvers soon after takeoff. Despite mention being made that aerobatics were to be performed in the center of the pattern during the pilot's meeting, this aircraft started to do what appeared to be a large loop over the edge of the runway. Near the top of the loop the pilot started to shout, "Look out, look out!" The plane rolled inverted at the top of the loop, nosed over and flew almost straight down at full throttle. Only the tail section was discernable. The pilot had no control over the plane from before the top of the loop to the ground. What would have been the consequences if there would have been a slight amount of up elevator? The plane would have dove right into the pits or the spectator gallery or the parking lot! Someone could have been easily killed!
This is an example of what can and does happen if this rule is violated. It is not my desire, nor the Executive Board, to police sanctioned events, and I hope it never comes to that. If you see something that appears to be unsafe, you should alert the CD of your concerns. Safety is everyone's responsibility, from the CD to the spectators.