The Alpha P-47 Thunderbolt is an amazing plane to fly. This compact foamy flyer was purchased from Hobby Lobby. It flies like its riding on rails and is guaranteed to tear up the sky. This plane has tremendous power. It is one of the few planes that we've seen during a hand-launch have zero sag. With just a slight toss, you'll look like Montana throwing a laser beam pass.
As with all our experience with Hobby Lobby, the plane came well packaged and shipped quick. This foamy is well constructed and feels solid. The dudes have a pet peeve for flimsy foam models that don't last long. Model airplanes should not have to be handled with kid gloves and they should be able to take a few rough landings without having to use the foam-save glue after each landing.
The build was easy and quite fun. Testing the power system on the ground gave some insight for what the plane would be capable of in the air. Trim was easily adjusted and set for flight.
The two dudes arrived at the flying field in early spring to get this guy in the air. It was a cold but calm day. The dudes decided to knock off some rust by taking up the Hobbico Superstar before attempting any maiden flights.
A quick flight check was preformed and the Alpha P-47 was ready to go. With one dude on the radio, the other dude prepared for the hand-launch. For a good hand-launch technique, it is important to toss the plane straight out and not up, as this will put the plane into a stall. Also, communication is very important between the dude piloting the plane and the dude that is doing the hand-launch. Choosing a key phrase like, "Take Off!", ensures everyone is on the same page.
With the tremendous power of the P-47, hand-launch was no problem at all. The plane left the dudes hand and was instantly in control of the pilot. The turns of the P-47 were sharp and crisp. The silhouette was distinctive to the P-47 war bird. This bird truly looks better in flight than on the ground. Landing the P-47 was no issue at all. The plane slowed down nicely and coasted in for a perfect belly landing.
If the other planes in the Alpha line are anything like the P-47 you won't be disappointed.
