The model aircraft approaches in straight and level flight on a line parallel with the Judges’ line. When the model aircraft is in line with the judges (the center) a smooth curving climb is commenced which progresses to a smooth climbing turn of constant radius away from the judges. At the apex of the turn the bank should be at least 60º and the model aircraft shall be on a heading of 90° to the judges’ line. The nose of the model aircraft then lowers and the bank comes off at the same rate as it went on. The turn is continued beyond 180º to intercept the center with the wings level and at the same height as the entry height into the maneuver.
At the center another smooth climbing turn, the shape of which should be the same as the first turn, is immediately commenced away from the judges,. The second turn is then continued beyond 180° to cross the center with the wings level and at the same height as the entry into the maneuver. The Lazy Eight is completed by maintaining this height and heading with wings level before turning to intercept the original approach track to exit the maneuver parallel to the judges’ line in straight and level flight. A low powered aircraft would be expected to execute a shallow dive at full throttle in order to pick up speed before commencing the maneuver. The figure should be symmetrical each side of the judges’ position.
Faults:
- Entry and exit paths not parallel with judges’ line.
- Insufficient climb achieved.
- Insufficient bank achieved.
- Climb and descent angles not equal throughout maneuver.
- Maneuver not symmetrical about judges’ position.
- Arcs misshapen.
- Start and finish positions not as indicated.
- Overall size of maneuver not realistic for prototype.
- Model aircraft flight path not smooth and steady.
- Too far away / too close / too high / too low.