5. Flight Training

A pilot training was planned and carried out for the purpose of flying an aircraft and reaching for a perfect combination between the pilot and the wing runners in the test flights.

5.1 Training by using Model Airplane

The pilot has experienced the Japan International Birdman Rally twice so far. She has been training using a radio-controlled model airplane. In order to fly an aircraft in the rally, one of the very important factors is how the pilot can raise the nose of an aircraft after diving from the runway. We focused on the pitch control and used an engine mounted model glider for training.
The model glider with 2m-wing of less dihederal was equipped with the same type of flying tail as the life-size glider. The training was planned to bring the glider back under control when a side-slip occurs. A HPA is very slow in steering response as well as the radio-controlled model glider. The training was mainly focused on posture control especially controlling the initial movement.
As one of the multiple practice methods, a use of flight simulation by a personal computer was found very effective.


5.2 Training for a Pilot, Wing and Tail Runners

Three supporting runners were positioned for a feminine amateur pilot. One was at each tip of wings and another was at tail of the glider. Wing runners were to help with posture control by holding ropes connected to the wings. A tail runner was to hold the rear pipe just behind the cockpit to help with the pitch control. We removed a fairing from a cockpit until the pilot could take-off with the only help of two wing runners. Instead U-shape or T-shape control arm was attached to the rear pipe in order to makethe pitch control easier. A fairing was made to suit the ability of the pilot. The pitch control depended on the tail runner at the take-off and the landing and the tail runner saved the aircraft from crush by controlling the aircraft in emergency to secure safety of the pilot. The tail runner began helping the pitch control by operating the rope connected to the aircraft like wing runners after the pilot learned how to fly of her own. A safe flight contributes to the prevention of loss of a feminine pilot's strength and the improvement of flying techniques.(3)