Open Rookie Class Rules

Definition

A free flight model airplane powered by a 2.7V 5F capacitor / electric motor combination with fixed propeller (provided by FAi/aviationtoys.nl) and in which lift is generated by aerodynamic forces on surfaces. To
make the competition as equal as possible for all pilots a 2.7V 5F capacitor / electric motor combination with a fixed prop is mandatory, this set is available at www.aviationtoys.nl and is complete with prop,
charger and capacitor-motor combination.

The competition is divided into two main competitions: outdoor and indoor. For both all the rules are exactly the same, only difference is that there are two rankings, with separate times for indoor and outdoor times.

Character

The model aircraft must be free flight and powered by a 2.7V 5F capacitor / electric motor combination as set by the FAI.

All configurations are allowed. (Flying wings, Canard, bi-plane for example).

"Push-prop'' and ''Pull prop'' configuration is allowed. Standard prop size provided in the set is mandatory.

Technical specifications

Capacitor: 5F 2.7V. As provided by FAI/aviationtoys.nl

Motor: 6mm diameter, as provided by FAI/aviationtoys.nl

Prop: 46 mm from tip to tip, as provided by FAI/aviationtoys.nl

Power supply for the charging unit: 3 AA batteries, 4.5 V.

There is no minimum or maximum weight limit.

There is no limitation in dimensions.

All materials are allowed, foam, balsa, carbon, plastics, etc.

When participating, the number of participants' models that meet the technical specifications is set at a maximum of 5 models.

Number of flights

Each competitor may make five flights with in the time of the competition set by the organisation of which the best 3 times count for the classification.

Definition of an official flight

Time flown during a flight that has been recorded and timed by an time keeper in which the competitor has launched the model him or herself from the ground.

Definition of an unofficial flight

Timer error. Launch made by a person other than the competitor. The model flies out of sight of the timer before the maximum flight time of 4 minutes, or the time set by the organiser of the event, is reached.

Maximum Flight time

Outdoor: Maximum flight time is set at 4 minutes, the organiser of the contest is free to make a local rule and change this.
Indoor: Maximum flight time is set at 2 minutes, the organiser of the contest is free to make a local rule and change this.

Classification

The best 5 times flown count in the final classification of a contest, the same rule apllies for the final ranking of that season. In case of equal results, there will be multiple winners.

Timing

Times are rounded up to whole seconds.

The flight must be supervised or clocked by an induvidual other then the pilot.

The official flight time starts when the model is released by the competitor

The official flight time ends:

When the model hits the ground
When the model remains motionless for 3 seconds or more. For example when it is stuck in a tree, or when flying indoors in eg. a volleyball net
When the maximum flight time is reached

Number of attempts

Five attempts to fly for a valid time may be flown in the time set for the competition.

Number of helpers: At least one person is required as a helper/timer.

The helper or helpers may do anything other than launch the model.