Thursday, August 9, 2012

How to Test Fly a Phoenix

 After making last minute adjustments to the new avionics, launch late out of Merritt Island airport headed home to Melbourne.  Make sure that a nice size storm is on the doorstep of Merritt, but still ok to the south at Melbourne.

 Make just a few minor autopilot adjustments and maneuvers to see that the basics are working.
Meanwhile the storm gets closer.  Time to head for the barn.

 On the ground ahead of the storm (just barely).

 Time to get the long wingtips off and push the Phoenix into the hangar.

Close the hangar door and head home for a beer.  Test flight complete!