In this article I will cover some of the important aspects of twin-engine airplane flight from a full-scale perspective and discuss how many of these factors affect RC pilots and how they fly their multi-engine RC model airplanes. I base these discussions on my experience as a multi-engine instructor pilot for light twin aircraft combined with type ratings in the CRJ-700 and B-777F aircraft. I have also designed and flown a twin-engine RC model airplane.
The unique characteristics of twin engine aircraft require a separate FAA pilot certificate class rating and checkride. The primary focus on the differences between single and multi-engine aircraft regard engine failure procedures. Engine failure in a twin can result in greatly reduced performance and potential loss of aircraft control. By understanding these important concepts, the RC pilot will be much better prepared to successfully deal with an engine failure in all phases of RC flight. Let’s get to it!
PERFORMANCE
Many pilots assume that if you
