I’ve flown R/C airplanes for a long time, mostly focusing in “scale” type flying (Warbirds).  I can do basic and advanced aerobatics, but 3D is something I never really go into.  But, looking for a new challenge (and a new plane), I decided it was time to give it a try. 

I choose the VisionAire from Parkzone, for two reasons.  One, it has the AS3X system and I wanted to learn about it and see how it effects an airplane’s flying characteristics.  Two, the VisionAire reminds me of the old Typhoon airplane, and I put in many flights with one ages ago!

The build is quick and easy, typical Parkzone.  QQ designed the airframe.  I like the looks and it’s ultra rigid construction.  I won’t bore you with build details, it’s just too easy (too build!).  I will note:  Spend time reading the instructions when it comes to the radio set-up.  AS3X has a few different parameters that you need to keep in mind.  Nothing crazy, but it’s a little different than a regular set-up.

The throws you set up will be huge, the large control surfaces have a lot of movement.  Not at all the same as a typical Warbird.  You can set-up dual rates, but only so much.  And Trim, well you can only use a few clicks!  Most of your trim adjustments will be done post-flight at the pushrod clevis.  All this keeps the AS3X system working properly, as large amounts of radio trim will throw it off (no more than 5 clicks).

I’ve got 12 or so flights on the VisionAire.  The first few took a little getting used to, but the surprises were minor.  Regardless of the throws, this plane is rock solid in the air.  AS3X is doing so much work, I’ve flown in seriously windy conditions and it hardly shows on the airplane side.  It’s got that locked in feeling, just about all the time.  Full throttle does have a little wag to the tail, so I might need to drop the gains slightly on the AS3X system. 

The only big change is landings.  The AS3X wants to keep the airplane flat and will compensate when the plane slows and tries to drop the nose.  So, at first, my landings were vertical plops onto the ground from about 3 feet!  Using the throttle is super important with this airplane!  I finally figured out that the plane needs to be landed with power on.  It wants to be flown to the ground (to the ground, not into the ground).  So, set up like normal, but on your descent, keep 3 or 4 clicks up on the throttle stick and everything will be fine.   Adjust the amount of throttle as needed to hit your marks and you’ll get a nice roll out.  It took me a few flights to get it figured out, but now they are a piece of cake.  Touch and goes are nothing to worry about. 

Ok, onto 3D.  No, this airplane did not instantly make me a 3D star.  That will come with lots of battery packs and stick time.  What this plane, and the AS3X, does do well, is give me the confidence to try any maneuver in the book.  By doing some of the work for you, keeping the plane stable, it allows me to try new maneuvers without worrying about putting it into the ground every time.

A side benefit that comes along with this is the way it handles the wind.  This plane will get any pilot more flying time, as the AS3X will mellow out windy conditions that you would not normally fly in.  With my limited free time schedule, this is a huge benefit!  So, more stick time = getting better quicker.

This is a great plane for someone with aileron experience, but it is not a beginners plane.  Set-up it up correctly and it will reward you with more opportunities to fly RC, and a chance to really improve your piloting skills.

 

 

 
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