31  General Section 
General notes 
Radio controlled models are a great source of pleasure. 
Unfortunately, they can also pose a potential hazard if 
not operated and maintained properly. 
It is imperative to install your radio control system 
correctly. Additionally, your level of piloting competency 
must be high enough to ensure that you are able to 
control your aircraft under all conditions. If you are a 
newcomer to radio controlled flying, please seek help 
from an experienced pilot or your local hobby shop. 
Safety Do’s and Don’ts for Pilots 
• Ensure your batteries have been properly charged 
prior to initial flight. 
• Keep track of the time the system is turned on so 
you will know how long you can safely operate 
your system. 
• Perform a ground range check prior to the initial 
flight of the day. See the “Daily Flight Checks 
Section” for information. 
• Check all control surfaces prior to each takeoff. 
• Use frequency flags. 
• Do not fly your model near spectators, parking 
areas or any other area that could result in injury 
to people or damage of property. 
• Do not fly during adverse weather conditions. Poor 
visibility can cause disorientation and loss of 
control of your aircraft. Strong winds can cause 
similar problems. 
• Do not fly unless your frequency is clear.  
Warning: Only one transmitter at a time can 
operate on a given frequency. If you turn on your 
transmitter while someone else is operating a 
model on your frequency, both pilots will lose 
control of their models. Only one person can use a 
given frequency at a time. It does not matter if it is 
AM, FM or PCM—only one frequency at a time. 
• Do not point the transmitter antenna directly toward 
the model. The radiation pattern from the tip of the 
antenna is inherently low. 
• Do not take chances. If at any time during flight you 
observe any erratic or abnormal operation, and 
immediately and do not resume flight until the cause of 
the problem has been ascertained and corrected. 
Safety can never be taken lightly.