FES Flight Manual, v1.18 May 2020
Page 20 of 35
4.5.5 Self-launch and climb
Warning: Self-launch is not allowed when FES is installed as a sustainer
system!
Before a self-launch always prepare yourself mentally. Think about the actions you
will perform in case of motor failure in different stages of taking-off. Consider wind
conditions, airfield altitude, length of the runway, obstacles at the end of the runway, air
temperature etc.
Do not take off from short runways, with a lot of obstacles and no
possibility for alternatives in case of motor failure.
Caution:
Always take off in the headwind direction!
Self-launch procedure:
1. Check that tail dolly and propeller covers are removed.
2. Sit into the glider, fasten your seat belts and close the canopy.
3. Check that airbrake is closed and locked, and elevator trim set correctly.
4. Set flaps for take-off, depending on sailplane type.
5. Check that motor ventilation is opened.
6. Check that the propeller area and the area in front of the sailplane is free of people
and obstacles. Shout “clear prop” loudly.
7. Switch ON the FCU instrument.
8. Switch ON the power switch and wait until all system parameters are displayed.
9. Ask for take-off permission and wait for the approval.
10. Start the motor by rotating the throttle knob clockwise, set it to low RPM.
11. Gently rotate throttle knob clockwise until maximum power is reached.
12. Accelerate, adjust flaps and gently lift off at an appropriate speed.
13. When safe altitude is reached, reduce power and continue climbing.
14. Retract landing gear.
Caution:
During self-launching, pay attention to the traffic in the circuit
which may not be familiar with electric self-launching sailplanes and may not
expect your aircraft to launch unassisted.
4.5.6 Free flight
As described in the manual of the pure glider version of the sailplane, but keep in
mind that your FES equipped glider has higher wing loading. Adjust speeds accordingly.
Always keep the FCU instrument turned ON during soaring flight.
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