A very good but not so smart helicopter pilot

jerrybob · Apr 16, 2013

This is an interesting video......seems like quite a risk for a radio controlled plane but entertaining!!

Helicopter Pilot Fishes R/C Plane From The Top Of A Tree

Gary Fowler · Apr 16, 2013

I don't think he was dumb at all as it didn't seem to be a dangerous activity at all given the tree top was pretty isolated from any other objects that could have fouled his tail rotor. Looks like he was giving flight instruction so the time was on the student pilot but still a very good Samaritan action for the little boy. I was surprised at the lack of down draft in the tree when he approached and the passenger was able to just pluck the plane from the tree top with ease.

k0ua · Apr 16, 2013

Gary Fowler said:
I don't think he was dumb at all as it didn't seem to be a dangerous activity at all given the tree top was pretty isolated from any other objects that could have fouled his tail rotor. Looks like he was giving flight instruction so the time was on the student pilot but still a very good Samaritan action for the little boy. I was surprised at the lack of down draft in the tree when he approached and the passenger was able to just pluck the plane from the tree top with ease.

Gary I think the down draft is not all that severe up close to the helicopter, and more severe as you get closer to the rotor tips due to the pitch of the blades start out there on the rotor somewhere past the body of the helicopter. I am sure no expert in this, but that is what I think until proven otherwise.

James K0UA

MoKelly · Apr 16, 2013

Wow. I'm sure the kid is thrilled to get his plane back. That pilot sure has tremendous confidence in his ability to fly that helicopter. Great job.

MoKelly

TCJatko · Apr 16, 2013

At the risk of nit picking, the guy in the right seat didn't fasten his seat belt when he got back in the aircraft. Not terribly wise in an open-door aircraft. Or any aircraft.