Stolp SA-500 Starlet first flights

First 2x test flights of newly finished SA-500 Starlet.


Doing the first flight of an aeroplane a builder has slaved over for years is a huge privilege but also quite a responsibility!


First flight was an initial shakedown. Quick handling check plus taking just to the edge of the stall to check for any nasty behavior and work out what the approach speed should be.


Full nose down trim and forward stick pressure still needed in all phases of flight. You will also see the elevator is nose-down all flight (bar the stalls at which it was only neutral).


So second test flight carried out after adjusting the tailplane incidence. Neutral trim now perfect for takeoff, climbout and cruise. You can see a nice neutral elevator in the videos.


And now she is flying totally straight. One small adjustment. Such a great testament to the effort the owner has put in on this build.


Now to work through the flight test program (which means I get to fly it again - yay!)



GoPro Hero3+ black. I used an open case so the audio is mostly wind noise.