Take Off

The model aircraft should stand still on the ground with the motor running without being held by the pilot or mechanic and then take-off into wind, or as required by the competitor to make best use of the take-off distance available (jet subjects). If the model aircraft is touched after the competitor calls "Now" the take-off will score zero. The take-off should be straight and the model aircraft should smoothly accelerate to a realistic speed, and then lift gently from the ground and climb at an angle consistent with that of the prototype. The take-off is completed after the model aircraft has turned 90 degrees. If the prototype used flaps for take-off, then the model aircraft should also, but this may be subject to the competitor's judgement taking into account the wind strength. Any flapless take-off due to wind must be nominated to the judges before take-off. Flaps should be raised during the climb -out after take-off. If applicable, the landing gear should be retracted during the climb-out.
 
Faults:

1. Model aircraft touched after calling "Now" (zero marks).
2. Swings on Take-off (a slight swing with other than a tricycle undercarriage is
    acceptable as the aircraft tail is raised).
3. Take-off run too long or too short.
4. Unrealistic speed / too rapid acceleration.
5. Inappropriate attitude at lift-off for undercarriage configuration.
6. Not a smooth lift-off.
7. Climb rate wrong (too steep or too shallow).
8. Nose attitude wrong during climb (nose too high or too low).
9. Flaps not used if applicable.
10. Wheels not raised if applicable.
11. Significant wing drop.
12. Climb -out track not same as take-off run.
13. Unrealistic rate of turn onto crosswind leg.
14. Crosswind track not 90° to climb out track.