Anyone can open the throttle, pull in up elevator and go over the top for a loop. Getting the loop circular is definitely not as easy as it would seem.

Ensuring that the wings are level, head straight into wind at about three quarters power and pull in elevator. As the model approaches vertical, go to full power and decrease elevator slightly. As the model approaches the top of the loop, cut throttle completely and release the elevator. The model will 'go ballistic' over the top of the loop. You may even need to input some down elevator to maintain the correct arc. As the model passes the vertical (this time heading straight for the ground!), ease in up elevator and open up the throttle again to level out.

It is impossible to be specific about exactly where in the loop certain control inputs are made and how large they should be. This depends on the specific aircraft being used and wind conditions. If you are trying to loop across wind, rudder will have to be used to maintain position throughout the loop. The main thing to remember is that the well executed loop is an exercise in throttle and elevator control.

Back to Resources