Weight Limit

[Martin X. Moleski, SJ]

WARNING:

Folks who have no tolerance for long e-mails on technical/legal
issues should delete this now and go on to other threads.  :o)


--On Monday, July 12, 2004 9:34 AM -0400 John Ferrell <johnferrell at earthlink.net> wrote:

> The FAI definition is 11 pounds max or it is not a model.

That is true only of open records (5 kg max WET) and certain contests
conducted under FAI rules.

The general FAI definition allows 55-pound models.  Specific
records and contest categories lower the weight limit to 11 pounds
(wet for open records, dry for contests).

Here's the evidence for the summary I've just given.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

<http://www.naa-usa.org/website/html/recordsset.html>

The first definition given in the FAI code is:

2.2.1.6 Class F: MODEL AIRCRAFT - An aircraft of limited dimensions, with or without
a power source, not able to carry a human being.

This definition is repeated and slightly modified in Section 4,
which deals specifically with "Class F":

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

SECTION 4C ? MODEL AIRCRAFT

PART ONE - GENERAL REGULATIONS FOR MODEL AIRCRAFT

1.1. GENERAL DEFINITION OF MODEL AIRCRAFT

A model aircraft is a heavier-than-air craft of limited dimensions,
with or without a propulsion device, not able to carry a human being
and to be used for competition, sport or recreational purposes rather
than unmanned aeronautical vehicles (UAV) developed for commercial
or governmental, scientific, research or military purposes.

1.2. GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF MODEL AIRCRAFT

Unless otherwise stated, model aircraft shall meet the following general specifications:

Maximum flying weight with fuel 25 kg
Maximum surface area 500 dm2
Maximum loading 250 g/dm2
Maximum swept volume of piston motor(s) 250 cm3

Electric Motors power source max. no load voltage 42 volts

Noise limits shall be applied to powered model aircraft categories,
with 96 dB(A) at 3 metres for any category which
does not have approval for any other noise rule.
Specific noise measuring procedures are to be
developed by each subcommittee for its category.

Noise limits do not apply to model aircraft with electric motors.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

In section 7, we get the definition of a model under which Maynard
Hill set his records:

7.2. GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS OF MODEL AIRCRAFT FOR RECORD ATTEMPTS:

7.2.1. Weight:

For records mentioned under 7.1.4, item 1), the total weight of the model
aircraft in flying order, with fuel when carried, shall not exceed 5,00
kg. The maximum total weight in flying order with fuel of a helicopter
shall not exceed 6.00 kg. For records in regular competition under 7.1.4.
item 2), the model aircraft must comply with the specifications required
for the class concerned.

No refuelling will be permitted after the model aircraft is airborne
during any record attempt.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

					Marty #2874
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