Beckley Model Airplane Club

New Shelter

2012-01-10T21:15:00.000-05:00

Tony Harris went to the field today and got some photographs of work on our new shelter.

4th Annual West Virginia R/C Expo

2011-12-11T21:53:00.000-05:00

4^th Annual West Virginia Largest R/C Hobbies

Expo

Bigger New Place

Date: Saturday February 18, 2012

Where: Jackson County Armed Forces Center

8832 Point Pleasant Rd, Millwood WV 25262

Time: 9:00 – 3:00

Admission: $5.00 for Adults 10 and Under Free

All Active and National Guard and Reserve with ID Get In Free

Auction Starts at 1:00

Over 100 Tables Sold Out Last Year !

Something for Everyone

Planes, Trains, Cars, Trucks and So Much More This Year!

Vendors get to unload in a HEATED AREA This Year

Vendor Setup Friday Night at 5:00 And Saturday Morning at 7:00

Vendors 1^st Table $10.00 Then $5.00 a Table After that !

Vendor and One Helper get Admission with your tables

Bigger Place Prices Stayed the Same!!!!

Static Show This Year for Planes, Cars, Trucks, Helo’s and Rockets

ARF Class and a Builders Class For planes

$10.00 per Entry

Demo Area This Year!

Great Food

50/50 Drawings and Raffles

Sponsored by Jackson County Aeromodelers and the Flying Hillbillies

For more info call: Chuck at 304-531-0077 or email @ chuckflysrc2@yahoo.com

I-77 to the Ripley Exit and follow the signs!

It's That Time Again!

2011-11-28T09:47:00.000-05:00

Video Of Club Activities From Tony Harris

2011-11-27T09:51:00.002-05:00

Had to split the video into 5 parts and remove the music due to Youtube restrictions (sorry Tony).

A flight on a B-17

2011-11-25T09:12:00.001-05:00

When the B-17 Aluminum Overcast appeared on the horizon above a Houston suburb sky last week, her shape was immediately recognizable. She was curvy, substantial and down right gorgeous. At almost 70 years old, she was also a little creaky and sputtered and smoked a bit as she pulled in on the runway. This was our ride for the afternoon, and I was giddy like a 10-year-old as we prepared to board.

Read the complete story over at boingboing.net

More cool pictures of the EAA B-17 "Aluminum Overcast" on flickr.com

Mark Martin's New Tiger

2011-11-24T15:30:00.000-05:00

Mark Martin's new project is a Goldberg Eagle 63 with a tiger inspired covering job.

2011-11-08T21:08:00.000-05:00

Hey Club,

This is our first meeting for the fall. Our meeting will take place November 11, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. at the Raleigh County Airport. For our first meeting we will be discussing the following topics: bringing back the newsletter, second the new shelter where we stand and how long until completion. Finally, we will be setting the dates for the upcoming Chili and Pig Fly for the 2012 season. We would appreciate everyone’s attendance and feedback. We look forward to seeing you there.

New member’s be aware! COME TO THE AUTOMATIC GATE. Pull up to it and someone will drive up to the other side and trigger it open. AFTER 7:00 PM THERE WILL BE NO ONE TO OPEN THE GATE SO BE EARLY.

Tony Harris -Sec. 304-763-4775

Betty Morales-Asst. Sec. 304-763-7408

Wendell Paugh -Tres. 304-683-9803

Mark Nagye- Vice President. 304-222-1697

Jeff McClung- President. 304-253-6813

Update

2011-11-03T22:44:00.000-04:00

Added a new link in the "How To" section, Alan's Hobby, Model & RC FAQ Web Links

A new Zealand site but tons of great information and useful links..

Don't forget, club meeting November 11th at the airport with election of officers. See you there at 7 PM.

3w200 First Run

2011-11-01T20:05:00.000-04:00

First run of Mark Nagy's 3w200 in obvious preparation for this year's indoor flying season.

OshKosh 2011

2011-10-27T21:19:00.000-04:00

Some cool video from this summer's annual EAA Fly In at Oshkosh. Enjoy.

Chilli Fly This Saturday September 24th

2011-09-19T22:51:00.004-04:00

Annual BMAC Chilli Fly this Saturday.10 AM until ?? Bring your airplanes, family and friends to the field for a great day of flying fun. BMAC Field at the Raleigh County Landfill. Help spread the word and call your friends about this event.

Photos 2011 Airport Fun Fly

2011-09-19T17:08:00.000-04:00

Tony Harris photos

Fun Fly Raleigh County Memorial Airport, This Saturday 9-10-11

2011-09-07T21:53:00.000-04:00

Bring your planes to the airport this Saturday for a day of fun flying. Event starts at 7 AM and runs until around 4 PM. Location is in front of the hanger where our club meetings are held. Free lunch for BMAC members.

Pulse Jets

2011-09-05T10:15:00.001-04:00

The first pulse jet I ever saw was at a control line contest. It was INCREDIBLY LOUD and the guy nearly cork screwed himself into the ground flying it. As an 11 year old, I was impressed. Always wanted one to play with, but they haven't made Dyna-Jets in years. Found this out on the internet and thought others might enjoy also.

Read the article over at Hack A Day complete with video. I'm still impressed by the sound.

More Flying Fun At BMAC Field

2011-08-31T22:35:00.000-04:00

Pig Fly 2011 Photos

2011-08-28T19:29:00.001-04:00

Tony Harris Photos

Summersville Fly In August 20-21, 2011

2011-08-16T19:25:00.000-04:00

Click here to visit Wally's Sqaudron site.

VTOL Airplane / Quadracopter Mashup

2011-08-08T17:06:00.000-04:00

A few guys from Jobi Robotics came up with a really interesting RC plane called the Quadshot. With 4 motors, the plane is very similar to the quadcopter builds we’ve seen, but an added wing allows it to fly horizontally much faster than a pile of carbon fiber and electronics.

Read the complete story over at Hackaday.

Looks interesting.

Pig Fly 2011

2011-07-24T20:23:00.002-04:00

It's that time again!
BMAC Pig Fly
Saturday, August 27th 2011, starting at 1 PM.
Please bring a dessert. The club will supply the rest.

RC transmitter does everything

2011-07-19T22:00:00.001-04:00

Read the complete story over at Hack A Day .

Photos from July 4th WeekEnd

2011-07-13T17:09:00.000-04:00

Pictures shot by Tony Harris friend Frederick Pearson.

P-51 The Galloping Ghost @ Warbirds over Oberhausen

2011-07-10T09:24:00.000-04:00

Turn up the sound!

* The Galloping Ghost *
Plane: P-51 Air Racer / Scale 1:4.5
Pilot: Otto Widlroither
Engine: 200ccm 3 Cyl - 4 Stroke (Kolm Engines)
http://www.kolmengines.com/

8 Year Old Helicopter Pilot

2011-06-27T23:58:00.000-04:00

Amazing! I suddenly feel very old and inadequate.

More on 8 year old Justin Jee at http://justinjee.com/

New type of aircraft flies like a UFO

2011-06-23T22:15:00.001-04:00

D-Dalus can 'approach as gently and silently as a hot air balloon', say its developers, hover, rotate in any direction and fly as fast as a jet.

Read the complete story over at TGDaily.com .

There's more over on the Engadget site.

D-Dalus aircraft lacks fixed-wing or rotor, looks like flying steamroller

Who's going to build the first R/C version?

Sad Day For Airplane Lovers: B-17 Burns Near Chicago

2011-06-13T23:44:00.001-04:00

One of the few remaining B-17 bombers burns near Chicago. Full details and pictures over at The Denver Post

How To Find The CG Of You Airplane

2011-06-08T22:18:00.000-04:00

Thanks Tony Harris

How To Balance Your Prop

2011-06-08T22:14:00.000-04:00

Thanks Tony Harris

Updates

2011-05-26T20:55:00.001-04:00

Added links to R.A.C.E. R/C Modelers of Ravenswood, WV, and Wythe County R/C Flyers

Tony Harris sends word of a flying event this Saturday, May 28, 2011 in Wytheville.

We will host the Rural Retreat Aerospace Club this Saturday for a day of flying. Members are encouraged to come out and fly their planes for the kids, bring trainers and buddy boxes, help with lunch and crowd control. Lunch will be served around 1:00pm. The students have been practicing on the simulator and we want to give them a chance at a RC trainer and buddy box. Everyone is invited to come out and make this a great day for the kids.

Details at their website: http://www.wythecountyrcflyers.com/

Buckhannon WV First Annual Spring Fly-In will be held on 20-22 May 2011

2011-05-19T21:42:00.000-04:00

First Annual Spring Fly-In will be held on 20-22 May 2011. Special aircraft will be on display followed by a flying demonstration. One of the highlights will be a 50% Cub. Early bird setup and flying starts Friday afternoon. Door prizes will be available, one for each ten flyers. A special raffle will be held giving away a RX Ready and a RTF plane. More details to come. A selection of aircraft will be on exhibit, with some items for sale by other flyers.

Full information http://www.teterairfield.com/News.html

Joe Smiths Friday Noon Demo with the 3D Hobby Shop 104" AJ Slick --Joe Nall 2011

2011-05-19T20:24:00.000-04:00

I think it was a good flight if I just get it back on the ground in one piece!

Swichblade: New UAV Weapon

2011-05-18T22:05:00.000-04:00

First "Feathered" Flight

2011-05-18T22:00:00.000-04:00

A Virtual Tour Of The National USAF Museum

2011-05-16T16:41:00.001-04:00

If you have never been to the Air Force Museum in Dayton, OH, here's your chance to take a virtual tour. Just click on the link.

http://www.nmusafvirtualtour.com/full/tour-pkg.html

Brothers Build World's Largest Model Airport

2011-05-14T23:04:00.000-04:00

Via SlashDot

"Frederik and Gerrit Braun, energetic twin brothers with no shortage of dreams, have just finished construction of the world's largest model airport. With 40,000 lights, 15,000 figurines, 500 cars, 10,000 trees, 50 trains, 1000 wagons, 100 signals, 200 switches, 300 buildings and 40 planes, Knuffingen Airport is both a wonder to behold as well as a technological tour de force. The best part of Knuffingen is that it's alive. Forty planes and 90 vehicles move about autonomously. Located in Hamburg, Germany, the model is based on Hamburg Airport."

A Sad Note

2011-05-05T22:30:00.000-04:00

It is with great sadness that I inform you all of the passing of Mike Russell this morning at 1:05 AM. As of now, there are no plan's for services. I will keep you informed. Our prayer's go out to Mona.

Tony Harris, BMAC Secretary

Keep That Airplane Squeaky Clean

2011-04-30T23:19:00.000-04:00

Keep your glow powered airplanes squeaky clean with this home brew cleaner. I've been using this recipe since finding it on the bulletin board last summer. Works great.

5 Cups water
1/2 Cup ammonia
1 Cup alcohol
1 oz Dawn dish detergent (be sure and use Dawn, other brands don't seem to work as well)

Mix well and put in your favorite spritzer bottle.

FlyNano

2011-04-24T13:19:00.000-04:00

I saw this on Engadget. The man carrying aircraft are starting to be more like models.

Thanks to a composite carbon fiber bodies and a sub-44 pound drive trains, each weighs less than 154 pounds, hitting the FAA definition for an ultralight vehicle and forgoing the need for a pilot's license. But, while the company is pitching these electric-powered propeller vehicles as flyable straight out of the box, the things are still subject to FAA regulations, so don't expect to go joyriding near a major airport anytime soon -- and then there's the "theoretical operational distance" of 40 miles to contend with. Pricing ranges from €25,000 to €27,000 ($36,380 to $39,290)

The company site: http://www.flynano.com/

JetPack Sets New Flight Record

2011-04-20T21:57:00.000-04:00

I want one! Who's going to make the first scale R/C of one?

From New Scientist:

Ever wish you could use a jetpack to fly over traffic? It could soon be possible thanks to a device designed and built by Martin Aircraft of Christchurch, New Zealand. In this video, you can watch a recent outdoor test where the flight lasted seven minutes, a new record for this particular model.

Full story here.

Via New Scientist

How About a 24 Foot Wingspan Pink Foam R/C Plane?

2011-04-19T21:49:00.000-04:00

Have not had much to post lately, so check this out.

He used Polyquest Lipo batteries totaling 6S 10400Mah, Phoenix 80 ESC, and a Hacker C50 14XL with a Hacker planetary 6.7:1 gearbox. Gotta remember this was 5 years ago. Large outrunners were not readily available then. The flight took place at 5:30pm, Badger Prairie St. Park, Madison Wisconsin, April 2 2005.

Kiewit P17 Stearman Maiden Flight

2011-04-06T16:36:00.002-04:00

60% Scale Stearman PT-17
No other information available at this time.

Via Tony Harris

Campaign Success!

2011-04-04T17:07:00.000-04:00

From the AMA Web Site:

Thank you for supporting AMA! Our message has been heard in the nation's capital by Congress and the FAA, so we are suspending our letter-writing campaign as of March 28.
Please regularly check www.modelaircraft.org/gov for the latest updates and, if necessary, a resumed campaign to make federal officials understand that regulations on model aviation are both onerous and unnecessary.

2 Cycle Oil To Gas Mixture

2011-04-04T17:03:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Tony Harris and "ChunkyPlunker1"

Robot bird takes flight

2011-03-29T22:13:00.000-04:00

Ornithopters are here!

SmartBird is modelled on the herring gull and can take off, fly and land while its flight is controlled remotely from the ground in real time. To take off, the robotic bird flaps its wings with the help of an onboard motor. As the wings beat, the front edge also twists, enabling airflow along the wings to generate thrust. Once in flight, the tail acts as a rudder to steer the bird through the air. The technology could be used to design "stroke wing generators" - devices that produce energy from water.

Via BoingBoing

The Low Pass - Some Cool Full Scale Video

2011-03-27T00:57:00.000-04:00

$60,000 Electric Flight Prize at EAA AirVenture 2011

2011-03-23T22:20:00.002-04:00

Never thought I would see it, full scale, man carrying, electric aircraft.

To date, applications for the following aircraft have been submitted:

CargoAirship, a helium-lift airship with electric power featuring carbon fiber and aluminum framing.
ElectraFlyer-C, a single-place aircraft that was flown at Oshkosh in 2008.
ElectraFlyer-X, a two-place aircraft.
ElectraFlyer-ULS, a single-place ultralight that was flown at Oshkosh in 2007.
Pipistrel Taurus Electro, the first two-seat aircraft powered by an electric motor to fly in the world.
Pipistrel Taurus Rapid, a four-place aircraft featuring a 75-foot wingspan.
Sonex Electric Waiex, a standard Waiex kit aircraft modified with the installation of proprietary e-flight electric power components.
V-Raptor Electro Flyer, featuring a 20-hp motor and a composite structure.
Yuneec E-430, a two-place, single-motor light sport aircraft which won the Lindberg Electric Aircraft Prize at EAA AirVenture 2010.
Yuneec E-1000, a three-place aircraft with a 56-foot wingspan.

Full story over at PlaneNews

March Newsletter From Tony & Betty

2011-03-19T09:11:00.000-04:00

BECKELEY MODEL AIRPLANE CLUB NEWSLETTER

March 11,2011 Meeting at Airport Lounge-7 to 8PM

meeting brought to order 7pm-adjourned-8pm

Mark Nagye, VP, Presiding

Bob Learmonth's wife, Beverly, is very ill. We pray for both of them at this time, We hold them in our Prayer's.

The meeting opened with the financial report from Wendall. Reminder to all members: If you have not yet paid your 2011 dues, please do so before the end of March to avoid the penalty of $2 per month. Thank you.

Julius has the lawnmower in for servicing. Our 2011 budget for the lawnmower, maintenance, gas and repairs.was voted on and approved.

Greg and Gene have been meeting with Landfill Officials and the Civilian Conservation Corp. regarding plans for a shelter and fence on the field. There is another meeting scheduled after the 17th to finalize plans. We will have a report on this at the April meeting

Members, if you see the field trash cans full after flying, and you have room in your vehicle, please take the full bags to the Household Dumpster on your way out. This is just one of the ways we can keep our area clean and safe. Thank you for your help!

Congress has passed an amendment to The FAA to consider Reauthorizing bills exempting model airplanes from unnecessary federal regulations. AMA is urging all members to send a letter to our representatives in Congress to ensure that a similar amendment is introduced and passes before it is sent to the Executive branch for signature. If you do not have a computer, since this is done online, please call Tony Harris, 304-763-4775 and he will submit your name and send the letter to our representatives, Nick Rahall, Senator Rockefeller, and Senator Joe Manchin.

Wendall is checking into 2011 service costs for our porta-john. He will report them at the last meeting.

Our new shed has been built but is not yet painted. When weather permits, this will be done and Greg will deliver it to the field.

Please try to attend the last meeting on April 8, 2011-from 7 PM to 8PM in the Airport Lounge. We look forward to seeing you!

IMPORTANT NOTICE! "LOCKING THE GATE!!!!"

It was reported to Gene last Sunday that the gate was LOCKED BACK INCORRECTLY!!

TAKE SPECIAL CARE in LOCKING WITH OUR LOCK.

"BE SURE NOT TO LOCK THE CHAIN" so the landfill lock won't open that gate.

Any questions call Jeff at 640-3472. Remember also that some of us could be locked in during the afternoons and on Sundays

We have to replace our New Lock the Landfill had to break on our gate entrance, your existing key will fit this lock. We have only one entrance to the landfill, THE BROWN GATE. If you accidentally get locked in with no cell phone, go down to the brown house at the bottom gate. The man living there will help you get out.

IF THIS KEEPS UP, "SOMEONE" is going to cause "US ALL" to lose our ability to fly unless the landfill is open. This means "No Flying AFTER 5:00 PM DURING THE WEEK or AFTER 4:00 PM on SAT. and NO FLYING on Sundays!"Come on guys! If you can fly a plane, you can lock a gate correctly! It's not Rocket Science! Just STOP and THINK and THINK AGAIN! Don't take our "PRIVILEGE" to fly at the Landfill as a RIGHT! We are GUEST! PLEASE Remember to act that way.

Tony Harris, Sec.

Betty Morales,

Newsletter Editor

The History of the Single Stick

2011-03-17T15:57:00.002-04:00

Inspired by the early Galloping Ghost transmitters that used only one control stick to move both the rudder and elevator, the term singlestick came to apply to those transmitters having only one primary control stick.During the early days of analog and digital proportional radio manufacture, both single stick and two stick transmitters were readily available. It was said that the earlier (read that ‘older’) fliers preferred the single stick set-up because of it’s similarity to the earlier, often ‘home-made’ transmitter configurations, and that the two stick set-up was preferred by the ‘newer’ fliers who probably never flew the earlier set-ups, but who had come in by flying the earlier ‘reed’ radios.

Read the rest at http://www.singlestickstuff.com/history.php

Via Single Stick Stuff

UPDATE: NTSB Releases Factual Report On Biplane Collision With Large RC Aircraft

2011-03-16T22:57:00.000-04:00

Radio Controlled Plane Was Performing In A Model Air Show.

In what was perhaps the most unusual mid-air collision last year, a Shpakow SA 750 bipe struck a large-scale AJ Slick RC model, slightly damaging the larger aircraft but largely destroying the model. The good news is that the biplane landed safely, but it was not undamaged.

The complete report is available here.

Our original post is http://bmacwv.blogspot.com/search?q=incident

Via Aero News Network

Update: Tell Congress to Protect Model Aviation

2011-03-11T23:22:00.001-05:00

82,283 Letters Sent So Far

If you have not sent your letter yet, please do so now. It's easy to do. Just follow this link to the AMA web site and follow the instructions. You do not need to compose your own letter, just fill in some online forms and the AMA takes care of the rest. If you enjoy flying as much as I do please take time to send your letter. Use the AMA form letter, or even better compose your own. Let's keep'em flying!

Daylight Saving Time

2011-03-11T23:05:00.000-05:00

Just a reminder that Daylight Savings Time begins this Sunday March 13th at 2 AM, so spring forward 1 hour.

AMA Safety Code

2011-03-10T23:11:00.000-05:00

Academy of Model Aeronautics National Model Aircraft Safety Code

Effective January 1, 2011

A.
GENERAL: A model aircraft is a non-human-carrying aircraft capable of sustained flight in the atmosphere. It may not exceed limitations of this code and is
intended exclusively for sport, recreation and/or competition. All model flights must be conducted in accordance with this safety code and any additional
rules specific to the flying site.
1.
Model aircraft will not be flown:
(a) In a careless or reckless manner.
(b) At a location where model aircraft activities are prohibited.
2.
Model aircraft pilots will:
(a) Yield the right of way to all man carrying aircraft.
(b) See and avoid all aircraft and a spotter must be used when appropriate. (AMA Document #540-D-See and Avoid Guidance.)
(c) Not fly higher than approximately 400 feet above ground level within three (3) miles of an airport, without notifying the airport operator.
(d) Not interfere with operations and traffic patterns at any airport, heliport or seaplane base except where there is a mixed use agreement.
(e) Not exceed a takeoff weight, including fuel, of 55 pounds unless in compliance with the AMA Large Model Aircraft program. (AMA Document 520-A)
(f)
Ensure the aircraft is identified with the name and address or AMA number of the owner on the inside or affixed to the outside of the model aircraft.
(This does not apply to model aircraft flown indoors).
(g) Not operate aircraft with metal-blade propellers or with gaseous boosts except for helicopters operated under the provisions of AMA Document #555.
(h) Not operate model aircraft while under the influence of alcohol or while using any drug which could adversely affect the pilot’s ability to safely control
the model.
(i)
Not operate model aircraft carrying pyrotechnic devices which explode or burn, or any device which propels a projectile or drops any object that
creates a hazard to persons or property.
Exceptions:
.
Free Flight fuses or devices that burn producing smoke and are securely attached to the model aircraft during flight.
.
Rocket motors (using solid propellant) up to a G-series size may be used provided they remain attached to the model during flight. Model rockets
may be flown in accordance with the National Model Rocketry Safety Code but may not be launched from model aircraft.
.
Officially designated AMA Air Show Teams (AST) are authorized to use devices and practices as defined within the Team AMA Program
Document (AMA Document #718).

(j)
Not operate a turbine-powered aircraft, unless in compliance with the AMA turbine regulations. (AMA Document #510-A).
3.
Model aircraft will not be flown in AMA sanctioned events, air shows or model demonstrations unless:
(a) The aircraft, control system and pilot skills have successfully demonstrated all maneuvers intended or anticipated prior to the specific event.
(b) An inexperienced pilot is assisted by an experienced pilot.
4.
When and where required by rule, helmets must be properly worn and fastened. They must be OSHA, DOT, ANSI, SNELL or NOCSAE approved or
comply with comparable standards.
B. RADIO CONTROL (RC)
1.
All pilots shall avoid flying directly over unprotected people, vessels, vehicles or structures and shall avoid endangerment of life and property of others.
2.
A successful radio equipment ground-range check in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations will be completed before the first flight of a new or
repaired model aircraft.
3.
At all flying sites a safety line(s) must be established in front of which all flying takes place (AMA Document #706-Recommended Field Layout):
(a)
Only personnel associated with flying the model aircraft are allowed at or in front of the safety line.
(b)
At air shows or demonstrations, a straight safety line must be established.
(c)
An area away from the safety line must be maintained for spectators.
(d)
Intentional flying behind the safety line is prohibited.
4.
RC model aircraft must use the radio-control frequencies currently allowed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Only individuals properly
licensed by the FCC are authorized to operate equipment on Amateur Band frequencies.
5.
RC model aircraft will not operate within three (3) miles of any pre-existing flying site without a frequency-management agreement (AMA Documents #922Testing
for RF Interference; #923- Frequency Management Agreement)
6.
With the exception of events flown under official AMA Competition Regulations, excluding takeoff and landing, no powered model may be flown outdoors
closer than 25 feet to any individual, except for the pilot and the pilot's helper(s) located at the flight line.
7.
Under no circumstances may a pilot or other person touch a model aircraft in flight while it is still under power, except to divert it from striking an individual.
This does not apply to model aircraft flown indoors.
8.
RC night flying requires a lighting system providing the pilot with a clear view of the model’s attitude and orientation at all times.
9.
The pilot of a RC model aircraft shall:
(a) Maintain control during the entire flight, maintaining visual contact without enhancement other than by corrective lenses prescribed for the pilot.
(b) Fly using the assistance of a camera or First-Person View (FPV) only in accordance with the procedures outlined in AMA Document #550.
C. FREE FLIGHT
1.
Must be at least 100 feet downwind of spectators and automobile parking when the model aircraft is launched.
2.
Launch area must be clear of all individuals except mechanics, officials, and other fliers.
3.
An effective device will be used to extinguish any fuse on the model aircraft after the fuse has completed its function.
D. CONTROL LINE
1.
The complete control system (including the safety thong where applicable) must have an inspection and pull test prior to flying.
2.
The pull test will be in accordance with the current Competition Regulations for the applicable model aircraft category.
3.
Model aircraft not fitting a specific category shall use those pull-test requirements as indicated for Control Line Precision Aerobatics.
4.
The flying area must be clear of all utility wires or poles and a model aircraft will not be flown closer than 50 feet to any above-ground electric utility lines.
5.
The flying area must be clear of all nonessential participants and spectators before the engine is started.

Un Civil War 40 RC planes in combat

2011-03-08T22:35:00.000-05:00

Un Civil War 40 RC planes in combat from Lee on Vimeo.
40 Radio Control flying wings flying at the UFO Club Civil War in Utah County, Utah.
Kind of looks like fun. Found this source of combat flying wings for those interested: http://www.crashtesthobby.com/
Love the name.

Added "How To" Link Area

2011-03-03T20:47:00.001-05:00

Added a collection of links to model web sites that have collections of how to articles and information. If you know of some more to add, please let me know.

Pterodactyl

2011-03-03T20:18:00.000-05:00

Club member George Jeffery living the life in Florida. He built this Pterodactyl. If I know George, he probably got the plan's of the inter net and scratch built it.

Submitted by Tony Harris, BMAC Secretary

New Page

2011-03-02T22:51:00.000-05:00

Added a new page, Another One Bites The Dust: Crash Video and General OOPS!
Hope I don't have any personal video to add this flying season.

Thanks to Tony Harris for all the links.

2009 AAA/APM Invitational Fly-in at Antique Airfield

2011-03-02T22:26:00.000-05:00

Video of some beautiful full scale antique aircraft.

The 2009 AAA/APM Invitational Fly-in at Antique Airfield near Blakesburg, Iowa was one of the most successful and largest gatherings of it's kind ever held.
If you are interested in antique aircraft, the Antique Airplane Association and Air Power Museum are for you.

Space Shuttle Launch: Viewed From an Airplane

2011-03-02T21:57:00.000-05:00

UPDATE: Write a Letter to Congress

2011-02-28T22:29:00.001-05:00

57,744 Letters Sent So Far!

If You haven't done so yet, visit the , AMA page and make your voice heard.

Help keep model aviation free of unnecessary government regulations.

Pure Merlin Engine Sounds "Without Music"

2011-02-25T22:53:00.000-05:00

What an awesome sound!

Tell Congress to Protect Model Aviation

2011-02-23T22:25:00.000-05:00

Write a Letter to Congress

The FAA is developing new regulations that may place onerous and unnecessary restrictions on the hobby, sport and educational pursuit of model aviation.

It is extremely important that all aeromodeling enthusiasts stand up and tell congress to protect model aviation from pending federal regulation by the FAA.

This up now on the AMA web site. Please do this now and help protect our hobby from government intervention. Follow the link to send a letter to your representative.

http://amagov.modelaircraft.org/4077...all-to-action/.

HUGE 177" RC Plane The Flying Boxcar C 119 NAMFI 2010 flight 1

2011-02-20T19:31:00.000-05:00

This 177" Plane is Carl Bachhuber's latest creation.

Via Tony Harris

Giant Scale Gee Bee R-2 1/2 Scale! WIPE-OUT!!

2011-02-20T19:24:00.000-05:00

Yooowee Gee Bee lovers--here's a 1/2 scale R-2 that's bound to get you going!
Too bad it was lost on the second flight--still can't figure what went wrong--perhaps the elevator servo--takes a lot to push a 10 ft. wingspan Gee Bee that weighs 121 lbs. around. Especially when it's being powered by a limbach 280-gear drive hanging on the nose!

Via Tony Harris

80% Scale Caudron Racer

2011-02-20T19:19:00.000-05:00

This is a HUGE 20 ft. wingspan RC aircraft called an Aerions Caudron Air Racer from the 40's.
Has an electric start JPX320 reduction drive motor-turning a 42x12 prop-weighs 264 lbs. And to date, he has NOT taken his son up for a ride-at least not to my knowledge!
Quite a 2 year project-on board camera.

Via Tony Harris

Hummingbird UAV flies by flapping its wings

2011-02-19T18:27:00.000-05:00

From New Scientist:

A tiny new unmanned air vehicle with flapping wings can hover, fly at high speed and negotiate indoor and outdoor environments while sending back video imagery, even though it weighs just nineteen grams

Complete story with video available at New Scientist here.

Pretty cool stuff. Would like to see more of the electronics involved.

More Photos Of Larry Rakes Fly Baby Bipe

2011-02-19T08:29:00.000-05:00

Thought you might like to see Club member Larry Rakes winter build. He did it in about 3 months [ He's a Beaver ] LOL! The plane is a 1/3 scale Balsa USA Fly Baby Bi-Plane with a DL 30cc gas motor. Maiden flight when the weather breaks.

Via Tony Harris

Important Update On Pending FAA Regulations

2011-02-18T22:55:00.002-05:00

Posted on AMA site today. Read the original here: http://www.modelaircraft.org/files/PR-Senate-2-2011.pdf

Sounds like some good news.

**************************************************************************************************

AMA Works to Amend Reauthorization Bill Providing Relief for
Model Aviation from sUAS Rules
M U N C I E, I N – Sen. James Inhofe, OK, successfully sponsored S.223 in the Senate
yesterday with an amendment specifying a “Special Rule For Model Aircraft” that
provides an exemption from regulation for model aircraft operating within the following
parameters:

* Flown specifically for recreational, sport, competition, or academic purposes;

*Operated in accordance with a community-based set of safety guidelines within
the programming of a nationwide community-based organization;

* Limited to 55 pounds or less unless certified through a design, construction,
inspection, flight test, and operational safety program currently administered by a
community-based organization.

“On behalf of our 140,000 members I want to thank Senator Inhofe, Chairman Jay
Rockefeller and Ranking Republican Kay Bailey Hutchinson for their leadership in
shepherding the FAA reauthorization bill through the U.S. Senate,” said Academy of
Model Aeronautics President Dave Mathewson. “Aeromodeling is an exceptional family
recreational and education activity that has traditionally been a stepping stone for our
children to careers in aviation and aerospace. With the Senators’ help we hope model
aviation will continue to help provide that impetus for future generations of engineers,
pilots and astronauts.”
The bill now moves to the House of Representatives, which is expected to rule on the
matter in the very near future.
AMA has contended that the purpose and operation of model aircraft flown for
recreational purposes is uniquely different from the operation of the growing number of
commercial small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for which the FAA is drafting
regulation. Aeromodelers operating under AMA’s guidelines have earned a reputation of
being one of the safest, if not the safest users of the National Airspace System. This
exemplary safety record spans more than 75 years.
The Academy of Aeronautics, founded in 1936, charters 2,400 clubs across the country,
sanctioning more than 2,000 events and competitions as a member of the National
Aeronautic Association. It is dedicated to promoting aeromodeling as a recreational,
competitive and academic pursuit.

# # #

Via AMA

Large Model Aircraft Program

2011-02-18T22:01:00.000-05:00

On January 25, 2011, AMA’s Executive Council (EC) approved an update to the Large Model Aircraft program. This program includes some significant changes.

One of the most prominent changes is the weight increase to 125 pounds for prop-driven models (LMA) and 100 pounds for turbine-powered models (LTMA). There are four classifications referenced within the program: LMA-1, LMA-2, LTMA-1 and LTMA-2.

Another important change is that classifications LMA-1 and LTMA-1 (55 pounds to 77.2 pounds) will allow for a self-inspection by the owner of the LMA . It will require two demonstration flights in front of two observers. The owner can serve as one of the observers, as long as he/she is not the pilot of the model. The other observer has to be an AMA Contest Director (CD), Leader Member (LM) or Large Model Aircraft Inspector (LMAI).

As an LM or CD, you can reduce the travel time and coordination required of an LMA-1 owner. While it is a voluntary action, if you are asked to help with observing a test flight, it would be helpful for your fellow modelers and the AMA staff if you could accommodate the request. You would not be inspecting—just verifying that the test flight was completed successfully.

Classifications LMA-2 and LTMA-2 will require inspection by an LMAI, followed by demonstration flights observed by the inspector.

To review the complete program go to http://www.modelaircraft.org/files/520-a.pdf.

Via AMA Safety & Member Benefits Department

The Boeing 314 Flying Boat

2011-02-15T22:17:00.000-05:00

Luxury air travel from the 1930's. Would be a great scale project if one had a big pond to fly from.
Lot's of cool pictures here.

Via Air Show Buzz

OOPS!

2011-02-14T22:00:00.000-05:00

Via Tony Harris

Wythe County RC Flyers First Annual Swap Meet

2011-02-12T13:25:00.000-05:00

Just received word of this one via E-mail. Wytheville VA, Saturday March 5th 2011.

Full details are available here.

Tony Harris' Swordfish

2011-02-11T23:20:00.000-05:00

Our intrepid secretary and resident biplane enthusiast reports on his latest project:

Here are some shot's of my Fairy Swordfish project I have been working on this winter. This was the British plane that put the first torpedo into the German Battleship Bismark in WWII. It was an old plane even back then. They use to call it "The String Bag" [pocketbook] because it could carry a big assortment of weapon's. Just finished the work on the pilot, gunner and navigator/radioman. Didn't want them all to have the same face so I did a little putty work. Still have a bit of work to do touching up the rough area's around the cockpit and paint. Need to put the leg's on the gunner and navigator. Have to mount the torpedo and flying wire's and I think that will be it. She's powered by a Zenoah 38cc gas motor. Wing span is 85.5". It took me awhile but she should be ready to maiden when the weather breaks. Hope you all enjoy the picture's.

Spektrum Goes DSM-X

2011-02-04T23:09:00.000-05:00

Just came across this video and thought it might be of interest.

Via RC Universe

Flying Hillbillies Get Some Good Publicity

2011-02-01T21:52:00.000-05:00

Our friends to the north had a very nice story in the Charleston-Gazette and the online edition even has video.

http://www.wvgazette.com/News/Putnam/201101300807

Screwed

2011-01-30T19:06:00.000-05:00

Everything you always wanted to know about fasteners. Click here.

Via BoingBoing

Larry Rake's New Fly Baby Bipe

2011-01-19T22:39:00.001-05:00

This is the Balsa USA 1/4 scale Fly Baby Bi-Plane [ 109" wing span ] kit being built by member Larry Rakes of The Beckley Model Airplane Club in West Virginia. She's BIG! Looks more like 1/3 scale. Larry is an outstanding builder. She's powered by a DLE 30cc gas engine.

Via Tony Harris

Added Link To Renegade Pilots

2011-01-12T22:14:00.001-05:00

https://sites.google.com/site/renegadepilots/home

Check out the progress of Mark's giant scale build here.

ROCKET PLANE POWERED BY 86 GUN BARRELS

2011-01-09T13:06:00.000-05:00

How about this for your next scale project.

Via Modern Mechanix

40% Off at K&T Karts and Hobbies

2011-01-05T16:27:00.001-05:00

Greg is having a 40% off sale this week on select products and hardware.

H-1 Racer 2011 Project

2011-01-03T22:18:00.000-05:00

Part 1 - H-1 Racer Intro

Aero Telemetry, the company that designed and built the flyable models for the Academy Award winning film The Aviator, is building a museum scale replica of the world famous Hughes H-1 Racer for celebrating the 75 year anniversary of the Academy of Model Aeronautics.

The plane will be featured at the celebration event to be held at AMA headquarters in Muncie, Indiana in July 2011.

Christmas Party 2010 Pictures and Video

2010-12-19T22:14:00.000-05:00

More to follow.

Club Christma Party Sunday December 19th

2010-12-18T11:11:00.000-05:00

The BMAC Christmas Party will be this Sunday December 19th at The Stratton Elementary School gym. Activities are scheduled to get underway at 3 PM. Please try and bring a covered dish if possible.

Old Models Bring Big Prices

2010-12-15T23:10:00.000-05:00

My first "gas" powered model airplane was a Cox control line Curtis Pusher plastic kit. I received it for my 8th birthday in 1960. Think my Mom paid about $10 for it at the local F.W. Woolworth's. It never did fly, think it was too heavy. It would just go around in circles on the ground and never did get airborne. I stumbled upon this one on eBay.

When I last checked the bidding was up to $400!!

http://cgi.ebay.com/Thimble-Drome-1911-Curtiss-Pusher-C-L-L-M-Cox-SAM-/260707572919

Charleston R/C Expo 2011

2010-12-13T23:10:00.000-05:00

Saturday February 26th, 2011
Charleston, WV

Charging Takes a Toll on a Battery's Insides

2010-12-09T21:40:00.000-05:00

The electric flyer's may find this of interest.

From Sciencemag:

As lithium ions flow from the positively charged cathode into the 200-nanometre diameter wires of tin oxide that make up the negatively charged anode, the nanowires writhe and bulge, causing them to expand up to 2.5 fold. The wires also change structure from a neatly ordered crystal to a disordered glassy material.

Complete article here:

Video here:

AMA Update on FAA

2010-12-08T22:24:00.000-05:00

The FAA process to create regulation for the operation of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) in the national airspace continues to move forward. There's been a lot of speculation about what will be contained in the sUAS proposed rule that is scheduled to be released as a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) sometime in June 2011.

Read the complete article here.

Anytime the government is involved, it can't be good.

How NOT To Land

2010-12-05T17:59:00.000-05:00

Don't have any information on this video. A very bad day for someone.

RC Landing Almost Takes Out Pilot - Watch more Funny Videos

Model Airplanes In The 1930's

2010-12-03T11:12:00.000-05:00

Another Informative Modeling Web Site

2010-12-03T10:53:00.001-05:00

Lots of good information in the "How to" section.

Check it out at http://www.antiquemodeler.org/

And yet another: http://www.charlesriverrc.org/articles.htm

Vacuum Forming At Home

2010-12-02T18:18:00.001-05:00

Need a custom canopy or other small plastic parts? Check out this DIY approach over at Hack a Day.

A little dumpster-diving let [Nick Skvarla] build his vacuum form machine for around $5. He pulled a vacuum cleaner out of the trash, which was tossed away because of a broken power plug. He put it into a box which had been sealed with spray foam and used a piece of pegboard for the top side of the enclosure. He takes a piece of 40 mil PETG plastic from the hobby shop and mounts it in a wooden frame. That goes into the oven on broil until the entire sheet is sagging, then onto the vacuum former.

http://hackaday.com/2010/12/02/vacuum-forming-at-home/

The Intricate Choreography of Flight

2010-11-30T06:52:00.001-05:00

5,000 airplanes are in the United States skies alone every hour. 63 such planes were filmed for this time-lapse video showing the intricate and beautiful choreography of take-offs and landings. Watch it. It's worth two minutes

Thought this a really cool video.
Via Gizmodo
And the GE Aviation site,which is also very interesting. Check it out here.

Attention Electric Fanatics: Don't miss the story about full scale electric flight on the GE site.

Good Turn Out For First Indoor Flying Session Of The Year

2010-11-28T20:13:00.003-05:00

We had a good turn out for our first indoor flying session of the year. At times there were half a dozen airplanes and helicopters buzzing around the gym. There were plenty of mid airs and crashes, but no damage to speak of. Get a little electric and join us next Sunday.

Club Indoor Flying Begins This Sunday November 28th Starting at 4 PM

2010-11-24T22:11:00.001-05:00

Just a reminder that we begin indoor flying this Sunday, November 28th, starting at 4 PM at Stratton Elementary School gymnasium, 1129 S Fayette St. Beckley. Get out those little electric airplanes and let's have some fun.

Lockheed Martin's Samarai monocopter

2010-11-23T16:37:00.001-05:00

Lockheed Martin's Advanced Technology Laboratories is flight-testing a mono-wing rotorcraft, or monocopter, inspired by the maple seed, or samara, and called the Samarai. The aircraft tested earlier this year is a far cry size-wise from the design developed for DARPA's Nano Air Vehicle (NAV) program - that had a wingspan of just 7.5cm, this one is about 30in - but it is being used to develop the flight controls for eventual backpack- or pocket-sized versions that could be launched through a window to fly indoors.

Original post at Aviation Week here.

Who is going to be the first to build their own model?

New Airplane Design Mimics a Seagull

2010-11-22T23:02:00.002-05:00

An attempt to redesign the airplane resulted in a surprising craft, one that mimicked a familiar, if much smaller, flyer: a seagull.

In a bid to increase the energy efficiency of the familiar tube-with-wings architecture, Joachim Huyssen, of Northwest University in South Africa, began by thinking about the basic principles of aerodynamics, according to his collaborator, Geoffrey Spedding, of the University of Southern California.

The complete article at LiveScience.com is available here.

I wonder about yaw control, don't see a rudder.

Free Indoor R/C Plans and Information

2010-11-21T21:09:00.000-05:00

Since we're about to start doing some indoor flying, thought this web site I stumbled across might be of interest. Free full size plans, information and links.

http://www.indoorflyingmodel.com/index.html

The Beast Has Arrived! UPDATE

2010-11-18T22:38:00.001-05:00

I stopped by the hobby shop in Teays Valley today just as they were unpacking their shipment and was able to purchase one. Looks like it going to be a wild little airplane. Lots of expo is recommended even on low rates. More to follow after the first flight.

Jeff test flew it today and it flys great. He decreased the controls to about half of that recommended in the manual. When flying off of grass it must be hand launched because of the tiny wheels, and I think removing the wheel pants might be a good idea because they look very fragile and prone to breakage.

Even though I said I wasn't going to fly anything until after my eye surgery, I lost self control and flew the Beast this afternoon. What a blast! It will slow down and fly below 1/4 throttle , so indoor may be a possibility.

If you get a Beast, you won't be disappointed..

Paper Airplane In Space

2010-11-12T23:20:00.000-05:00

Although not a model airplane in the traditional sense, I found this to be pretty cool stuff.

An oversize paper airplane sent up toward the edge of space by a British online tech publication has snapped stunning photos of the final frontier and Earth far below.

More information here and here.

Via msnbc.com, and cnet,com

Micro Indoor R/C Fun

2010-11-11T21:51:00.000-05:00

Since we're about to do some indoor flying, thought this might be of interest.

Fun video of micro-model airplane builders having a blast inside a gymnasium in Japan somewhere. Rubber band ornithopters! Flying angels! Itty-bitty biplanes! Styrofoam pterodactyls and sea turtles!

Via BoingBoing

Club Meeting

2010-11-07T21:32:00.000-05:00

Just a reminder that our first meeting of the season will be this Friday, November 12th, 7 PM at the airport. Look forward to seeing you there.

BMAC and K&T Karts and Hobbies Special Promotion

2010-11-03T22:43:00.001-04:00

Hey Folk's!

Christmas is just around the corner and Greg asked me to inform everyone that from now until Christmas, if you spend $100. at K&B Karts Hobby Shop, your name will go into a drawing that could win you $300. in store merchandise. He also has lots of new RC products in stock. Drop by' hang out and get your name in for the drawing.

Also a reminder that our next meeting will be Nov. 12, 2010 at the Airport. The meeting starts at 7:00 PM.

Tony Harris, Secretary BMAC