Comments :
I made my firsts R/C flights with an Electra. This plane is one of the most economic way to begin electric flying.
Some pretend this plane that has "electrified" America because it is the one that has been the most frequently used by newcomers to electric flight. It permits about 15 minutes flights with a bit of help from the sun. The climbing power is limited, on the other hand thermal flight capacities of the glider are honest. The weight specified by the manufacturer is 48 ounces. I think that it is a bit too heavy for the included motor. At this weight, the plane has difficulty to fight a light wind while climbing. The real defect of this plane is the lack of penetration in the wind. This limits its use to winds below 15 km/h. To obtain reasonable performances, it must be built light (little glue, light covering, etc.), and by using light electronic components. A friend has built a 38 ounces Electra that climbed pretty well with it's sock motor. The Electra is a durable plane that allows to experiment several aspects R/C flying, like the thermal flying, light acrobatics, precision landings and even the winter flying. Electric airplanes being still not widespread one can pretend that this plane is a "rare bird" in Quebec's skies.
(see also Slope Flying Stories where the Electra is referred to)
©, Louis Cimon
97-09-28
