Unintentional Take-Off??

PLEASE WATCH TO THE END. I have another GoPro on my wing strut to see me and my reaction/s.
I screwed up my airtaxi attempt and had to do a "go around" due to running out of runway. Talk about 'fate'. I guess it was way past time to fly. Huh?

[@planesplanes2863]

Congrats my friend, awesome experience! Thanks for bringing us along. "takeoffs are optional, landings are mandatory" nice job

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thanks. It truly was memorable and I will remember it forever. You are welcome. Bringing you all along was the plan. As long as it helps any others seek their dreams of flight I did my exact intentions and lit some fires.

[@neilfox4721]

Well done, I have been watching your channel from the start with all the highs and lows of your project. So glad you took the advice to get some flight training, as soon as you knew you were to high to land I could see your training kicked in and you took control of the aircraft made the circuit and landed safely, congratulations on your first solo. Even if it wasn't perfect, the important thing was it was safe and you made the right decisions.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thank you, sir! You are very kind and I appreciate the comment more than you know. Onward and upward - after fixing my resistant right aileron issue. Self grounded for now. Got advice from Dennis Carley and need to get on the fix and re-test fly it. Stay tuned. More to come.

[@anthonygrigg4046]

Congratulations on your Maiden flight even if it wasn’t planned. You did great staying calm and just flying the plane when you realized you were off the left side of the runway. Applying power and gaining altitude was the smart move and not forcing the plane to land. I’ve always said “Altitude” is your friend. It gave you time to calm your nerves and think about flying the aircraft. Your turns and approach will become more fluent with each flight. You’ve got this and again congrats. I too have followed this build from day one and have enjoyed being a part of it with ya. Anthony

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

You are very kind. Thanks for the 'attaboy'. In retrospect I had a blast when I knew she'd stay level. Stay tuned. More to come.

[@deerranch6560]

You got it buddy, well done. When you're a little nervous it's normal and keeps you on the edge. You're training really pays off. Keep on keeping on. 🙏 blessings.

[@daniellittle6783]

Just stumbled on your page. Love what you doing I have a million questions but will wait to ask them. Take your time stay safe looks like you gaining experience good job keep videos comming.

[@alecxixfernandez5212]

I think I was just as exited as you were, when I started watching the video. I was in disbelieve first when I heard what you were saying than up you went. “WOW “. Man that was exiting, to see you take on the sky for the first time. Congratulations ⚡️✨💥✈️

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thank you so very much for your kind words.

[@agp7073]

Congrats is in order! I've been waiting for your first flight and while it might have been unintentional you nailed it!! Well done!

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thank you very much. It WAS a "rush". Time to practice the pattern for a while. Then onward and upward to 'cross country' to some local spots. Stay tuned.

[@Heather22056]

Great looking plane. Thanks for the video.

[@robertpilchman2085]

THAT WAS AWESOME!!!! You did great Phil. Now the fun really begins. It did look like you were cross controlling to keep it level when you were pushing left rudder, I did the same thing first few flights because it felt strange to bank. All in all a great flight and landing. Loved it.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thank you, Robert! Coming from a fellow Aerolite owner that means a lot. After I inspect my cable routing to that right side, I'll make a second attempt withOUT the over-excessive rudder inputs. I can do this. Onward and Upward! :D

[@Dave-eg2pc]

Looks to me like a guy having a blast, being cautious and enjoying his airplane. Darn nice landing!! you look like the new pilot death grip on the yolk but before you know it you will be laid back and watching the country side go by!! Thanks for sharing and keep posting so we can watch the progression.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

You got that right, Dave 7200. As I get used to being the 'solo' PIC I will relax more and more with each flight. It was a blast. And having GoPro action camera's helps immensely. Thanks for watching!

[@bryanknepper5226]

Way to go...we always remember to fly the plane first, then assess the situation. Congrats on your first real landing!

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thanks! :)

[@andreweverts4291]

Wow! Your plane just wants to CLIMB! Looks like you followed the Big Three in their proper order: (1) Aviate, (2) Navigate, (3) Communicate. I'm a wannabe, so no critique from me. Congrats on your maiden flight. Well done!👍👍👍👍👍

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Yeh, doesn't she?!! All I could think was "fly it, relax, keep the wings level, look for emergency landing spots, fight my own cross-controlling and not understand what it was creating, etc. I think pilots call it 'task saturated'. lol Thanks, for the 'attaboy' Andrew!!

[@rchelicopterheaven]

@@aerolite103buildersvlog8 Great job, from your video you are certainly cross controlling, left rudder and using right aileron. If you were attempting to put the plane into a slip for a crosswind landing this is what you would start to do but not in straight and level flight. If your cable is run wrong I would encourage you to get it corrected so you don't continue cross controlling. At lower speeds you can actually put a plane in a spin ( I did that on my own Challenger II a few years back !

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

@@rchelicopterheavenGot ya! Came to the same conclusions. I am working on the fixes and about to test hop it. Stay tuned!

[@bjohnson3449]

I have been watching you from the start. So happy and proud of you .

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thank you!

[@eastbend99]

Congratulations! That was awesome. You looked like a pro; was perfect. And I think you absolutely made the right decision to just power on and take her up, rather than try to force a landing when it just wasn't there. Great job!

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thank you!

[@wkboggs5]

😮😮😮 Whoa!! Congrats ol' man!! I had not even finished WATCHING it yet, but wanted to add my congratulations. The wife musta been about to have a fit! I know mine would have. She'd have been all over the entire shot praying for a miracle! Lol Again, Congrats dude. Adventure awaits...

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

She was as surprised as me when I landed. That's because she assumed I'd decided to go and didn't tell her. NOT! lol It all turned out right and my feeling of accomplishment rose considerably. Thanks for the kind words. :)

[@Curious_Skeptic]

Love the video. Got my heart set on one of these! Have 70 hours of flight time, but never finished my ticket. Hoping I have enough training to safely get into Ultralights without too much trouble! Just need to save $$$ for a Aerolite now!

[@jedwig61]

Congrats. You made the right decision in going around. Circuit flying is so much cooler than air taxi practice. Then when you've got that cracked you'll be flying cross country in no time. The world's your oyster and you deserve it after all the work you've put into your flying machine.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thank you, Jed, for the confirmation on that 'decision' I made. I have read too many reports about last second 'go-arounds' that were not tried when they should have been. And bad things happen. I felt confident enough so I went for it. "No guts. No glory". Right?!! lol Just one more out of the hundred things going through my mind during that 'life-changing' experience I had.

[@jaco3928]

Wow amazing job landing with the unintentional take off! You have wings!👍

[@kishanpatel2036]

Iv'e only dreamed off owning my own aircraft and go flying, however looks like you have already beat me to it Haha. I am totally happy for you. Congrats on having a cool head in an unexpected situation. You have definitely earned your wings

[@cryptoad8420]

Congratulations! Well done with keeping your head!

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thanks. :)

[@MaxSpeedTV]

great job my friend. been watching you from the start .

[@wkboggs5]

Hey buddy. Still praying for you and whatever life situation you may be in at this time. Miss seeing you out there getting your wings on! 👊

[@Mike-01234]

I found your channel because of this video I totally understand up on the first flight and first solo flight at the same time. I see the importance also in getting trained up to the point where can solo in aircraft training in before take up first flight on the aerolite 103. Haven't seen any videos from you in long time hope all doing well.

[@daniellittle6783]

For being unintentional it looked good to me. But that is comming from someone who never pilotted anything. You doing something I have wanted to do for a long time. Good job keep going. Well be following closely.

[@joecomet1938]

I've never had a chance to go up yet but you did a good job getting back to mother earth. Congratulations. Yeah I think you've ready lol

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thanks, Joe! Go up. Just do it! The experience is thrilling doing it on your own. That's for sure.

[@stevegette6278]

Hey Phil, great job. I've watched all your blogs and have been anxiously awaiting your first true solo. This was one giant crow hop for you. Looks like all your air taxi practice paid off! I just ordered my Aerolite103 kit and look forward to be where you are today. Although I learned to fly 20 years ago in a Cessna 172, I haven't flown since. I am giddy about getting back in the air. Best of luck and flights to come. Let's all see some more of your posts. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

That's awesome, Steve. You'll love it. It's a great feeling of accomplishment. You'll see. Good luck and keep us informed. I look forward to following you. And you're welcome for the kind word about inspiring others. That was the goal and I'm glad it's lit some fires. Blue skies and tail winds!

[@jbl7092]

This reminds me of the Wright brothers and Glenn Curtiss learning to fly. It's like watching history. Inspirational.

[@kellywilson8440]

Holy crap wasnt even try to take her up yet but welp here we go lol and got that out of the way , Great job sir !

[@rodgerwestberry1466]

That was awsome, the turns is where I think I would have been most nervous. Guess that's where traing comes in because I would be very concerned about dropping a wing and going into a spin. You however did great from what I could see.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Rodger, you are so right. I was highly concerned about a wing drop the whole time, in any of my banked turns. My mind was reeling with so much info in nanoseconds it was wild. Task saturated BIG TIME. Thanks for the 'attaboy'. I truly appreciate everyones reaction and comments. :)

[@virginiafrank317]

You did great! You got it up, flew around, and got it back with no damage to either you or the plane. It doesn't get any better than that.

[@jackdock291]

Great first flight .... been thinking about the Aerolite 103 for myself but just don’t know if I am to late in life. I have a private single engine land pilots license and about 200 hours under my belt but I haven’t flown for 30 years. I am 81 now but still in good health and haven’t been in the hospital over night yet. I still remember my first solo in 150, what a rush !!

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Jack, go for it. It's part 103 and all you need is familiarization with controls and the machine itself. If you've piloted a 150 you CAN pilot this. Keep us informed. Your age doesn't matter. Only your heart. "Blue skies and tail winds", sir!

[@edwin3928ohd]

Go for it, Jack!

[@douglayman1843]

Do it jack! Im 60 and im gonna get one

[@chrisarvin1715]

When the dream is greater than the fear, you will do it

[@wayneg3127]

Good first landing. Any landing you can walk away from is always good!

[@joeroberts6956]

Awesome job on first solo flight!!! It doesn’t have to do with flying, but I remember when I got my learners permit for my motorcycle. I met up with a friend that’s had his license for years. He was in his pickup and said to follow him back to his house and he’ll jump on his bike and we can go ride. He forgot the whole learners permit thing and got on the interstate and I followed. It was at that moment I found myself in a situation I wasn’t sure how to get out of as I was still figuring out this motorcycle so I kept going talking myself through the gear shifting, signaling and everything else at once. I was scared!! It’s crazy how we can quickly adapt to situations when faced with fear or very stressful situations. I look forward to your shared adventures and continue to entertain the possibilities that one day I might just decide to get an Aerolite myself.

[@rob7633]

Great job phil been following your progress.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thank you so much!

[@jrbailey3208]

Congrats on your SOLO!!!!!!!! Sometimes Serendipity Prevails...... Cheers from the Oil Patch in Central WY

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thanks!

[@bkmccovert]

Thanks for sharing. Looking in to flying a 103 soon.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

You are quite welcome, Michael. Stay tuned. And you will love the 103. ;)

[@lovetofly32]

This is almost exactly what I did when I bought my 103! I was just gonna crow hop it down the runway. My dad and some other guy was watching. I was only 3/4 throttle and forgot my earplugs so it was really loud so i wasn't using full power but when i lifted off I drifted to the left over the grass and was like "welp, I gotta stay up now!" So i went around the pattern and made a decent landing. I tell you what! It was spooky but them darn aerolites are the plane to have! Them little shittin things fly so darn good! It looks like you didn't have the nose wheel and rudder lined up together because you still had your left foot forward when you were going straight on the runway. I remember my dad said, "I didn't know you were gonna fly it!!" 😆 Just took some getting used to not having any sheet metal around you. 😆

[@bkdexter79]

Exciting to watch!

[@AWallgren]

Right on, man. Enjoyed all your videos. Still waiting to hear from the folks at uflyit. I'm ready for this.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

It's sooooo worth it.You're going to love it. Thanks for following my progress. I hope it inspired a lot of you to follow your dreams - even in your 60's. Blue skies and tail-winds.

[@AWallgren]

@@aerolite103buildersvlog8 it did, big time. I sent an inquiry to the folks at Camarillo Airport for training as well. Once this COVID stuff subsides it go time. Keep flying and recording and I'll keep watching. Big Al - San Diego, CA

[@markhull1366]

Hey buddy, You did it! Laughing my can off. NOT at you, NEVER! It's because I was wondering if something like this wasn't going to happen during one of your hops. You are definately not the first that this has happened to. So very proud of you! Couldn't have turned out better. You handled it like a PRO! Your quick action to go full power and initiate the go around was textbook from my vantage point. Does look like you were cross controlling some. Looks to be a minor problem and I'm sure the adrenaline wasn't helping. Congrats on the SOLO! Too bad someone wasn't there to cut your shirt tail off. That used to be a tradition on a first solo. Don't know if it still is or not. I got one hanging at the pilot's lounge at Roosterville Airport (0N0 on AirNav) Liberty, Missouri. Can't wait to see more!

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

LOL Thanks, Mark!! You and me both are laughing. I have viewed the vids over n over and see all the things you very astute pilots/viewers observe me doing incorrectly. You definitely nailed it and that is precisely the response I was hoping for. Thank you. Now to remedy the mechanical issues and get back up there. But thoughtfully, not hastily. Stay tuned for more as I continue honing skills. Proficiency and skill ARE my goals. The most sought after 'Bucket list' item just got checked off. :) I'm a "test pilot" too. Nyuk-Nyuk-Nyuk!

[@markhull1366]

@@aerolite103buildersvlog8 Oh, I'm not an astute pilot by any means. Astute Part 121 A&P possibly. I've just been fortuant to have been able to fly with some professional pilots over the years. BTW, forgot to mention nice job on sticking that landing too. Personally, I've got a few hours from years ago, but family obligations and life got in the way (if you know what I mean). I'm still hoping to be able to get back up there again some day. Cheers Test Pilot!

[@tanahiro26]

i love it. i did the same thing with my trike. almost s... myself in my pant, but after that everything was nice. 2 yrs. later still loving it.

[@davidallen9526]

Good day sir. I enjoyed watching your video. Congratulations on the maiden flight!! I have to tell ya that I have a friend at my HBO that has the same plane. I believe he has over 60 hours in the 103. His issue is the same as yours. He has to constantly fight control input on the ailerons. He feels so much resistance that safety of flight has embedded itself into his thought process. He has contacted the company also and, to the best of my knowledge, has not received a satisfactory resolution. I will share your video with him in hopes that the two of you will make contact and discuss this. Blue Sky's and tail winds.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Hi David. I called Dennis Carley personally and he said to check "cable routing" going into the wing section and re-rout if necessary. It was necessary. So, I re-routed it and it is in the proper orientation now. My piloting skills definitely need more work, I know. I cross-controlled practically the whole time. I will force that to cease by staying aware of my feet and rudder position and remain neutral rudder in forward cruise attitude. Stay tuned and thanks again for following my dream with me. Blue skies & Tail winds. :)

[@righthandy6526]

awesome--but i did notice that you wasn't in a hurry to get back to earth--knew you was ready--congrats

[@ThomasGrillo]

Sorry I'm late, seeing this one. Just wondering if you were able to figure out if the control cable was faulty, or if it might've been a control authority reduction, due to lower speeds, over the runway? Thanks for the video.

[@wtpence4731]

Any landing you walk away from....:-) Looks like Fun to me !

[@jlions72]

Question for you ..?.....How does the front wheel work as far as turning ..? left or right is it hooked up with the rudder some how...??

[@hoppy6663]

I think I would cut the pony tail before it gets caught in something 🤔 love to have an aerolight 103 working on my wife dropping hints . Like your color choices glad you handled your situation pray for many years of fun safe flights.

[@deborahworks6616]

Okay WOW again got to love it don't stop now I am Danny works.

[@indepviewpt]

Good thing your instincts took over and you just throttled up. Hate to have seen you try to land it and get hurt or hurt the plane. Nice flight....at the end of the day.

[@99grandtouring]

Congratualtions! and thats what I was afraid would happen when commented on last video, at least you got it around and back safely, Glad everything turned out ok. And yes looks to me like was cross controling, looked like you had left rudder in it? Is that to counteract the torque of backwards facing engine?

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thank you! And yes I cross controlled and won't let that happen again. De-briefing with the video helps. Next time I fly I will force myself to relax the rudder inputs and keep it neutral unless in a turn/bank. The excessive left rudder wasn't supposed to be done. I should have been neutral. in straight and level. But being the maiden flight I was surprised by how she flew and it showed. Thanks for your words of wisdom.

[@jazzman5598]

I thought your plane might have been out of rig but looks like all is well. Great flight Bud!

[@dannycolson7174]

That was awesome!!!

[@kevinhornbuckle]

Looking good. Now you are climbing.

[@What_Its_All_About]

Great job on the Maiden Flight

[@jimmbecker]

Awesome Phil! I told you about two weeks ago that you were ready! Now just keep doing it. Some have recommended more time with an instructor? I would say don’t waste your time or money at this point. Pick nice calm mornings or evenings and fly. You mentioned you were fighting the controls a little...probably because of some thermal activity...completely normal and to be expected on almost every flight. Cheers!

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thanks, Jimm! I truly appreciate your vote of confidence. That's my plan. To fly and continue developing proficiency and skills. I got my instructors vote of confidence so that settled it. Stay tuned for flight videos. Blue skies and tail-winds.

[@joseboterocngn7279]

Nice job !!!!!

[@udellgroves2159]

Well done!

[@jimknuckey6078]

Do you have a piece of yarn on the wind screen? If not put one on it and keep it steaming straight up the wind screen to make sure you are coordinated. Cheap turn and bank indicator.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Yep, I do. Thx for the suggestion though. The friend at our field with the "Legal Eagle XL" advised the same. ;)

[@onthemoney7237]

Man for not even planning on taking off you did a great job ! You kept your speed up thats what saved you for sure . You kept the nose up on landing . Just need to get coordinated so you don’t stall . Your go around was a good plan to . Speed and coordination always . Don’t pull back or go up on low power same for turns could stall . Great job 👍

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Yes, I hear you and agree. She's got plenty of power & airspeed so she climbed out great. I had no trepidations whether or not I could do it. I flashed back to my Quicksilver lessons. I knew I could stay in control. But the right aileron resistance due to a cable binding a little - and my cross-controlling - hurt my overall success. But that said I felt her in the seat of my pants and knew what she was capable of, and good to go, as long as I kept calm and just flew it. Thanks for the 'great job'. Very much appreciated.

[@onthemoney7237]

Those are some good guys at airolight very helpful

[@commentatron]

Well, as long as your wife thinks it was an accident, that's the important thing! ;-) Congrats!

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

She knows better now. lol Thanks for the congrats.

[@jasongrinnell1986]

Lol! My wife would have said “yeah OK”

[@caseykelso1]

Right rudder maybe, did you use your string indicator information? Or didn't you even care at that pointOr to set on just flying and thinking about landing?

[@tomcoryell]

Good thing you got on the power! That fence would have come up fast if you tried to land.

[@dalerbsr.5061]

Awesome mistake... :) My instructor says keep your head on a swivel and relax, don't get fixated on the controls and or mentally. But you made it, and it counts as a success. Perfect

[@ricks960]

Great job keeping a cool head and getting that bird back on the ground safely. Looks like you learned a good lesson that day. Lol

[@chuckgoedicke7547]

So I did a thing . I purchased a weedhopper model b . And before I fly I would love some direction as to the do's and do nots . I couldn't pass up the deal. I've always wanted to have this craft and now that I own it I do not want to get into trouble both flying and or flying where I should not be . This is a bucket list dream of mine . I never figured I'd find this craft let alone own one . Any information as to where I could learn this knowledge would be deeply appreciated

[@Mike-01234]

Get training if you are not already a pilot Maybe find an ultralight instructor who can give you some instruction and maybe fly it first. I don't think he is making videos anymore it's been 2 years maybe he sold it after this flight.

[@robertlafnear4865]

You really wanted to fly and you know that ( lol)....... I think I want one !... I also think I want to fly mine from Oregon to Oshkosh.... hmmmmm.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Am I that transparent? lol You won't be sorry if you get one. Keep us informed and good luck!

[@FLYNRYAN1978]

way to stay calm and fly the plane . good job .

[@Senegal01]

Back in about 1993 my friend did a taxi run, end up about 50 feet up and stall and straight down! 6 Months in hospital and left leg two inches shorter, and damn lucky to be alive. He healed, got his private pilot, and now is working on his Ultra to fly it again!

[@Mike-01234]

There was a guy in Jacksonville Florida in 2017 his wife bought him a new Aerolite 103 first flight he was killed no training. He had life long dream of flying and was an avid skydiver before. These ultralights not much protection some like the quicksilvers your legs are the only thing sticking out in the front even a flip over going to bust your legs off.

[@robertpilchman6605]

Hey Phil, I was thinking about the control issue you are having and thought I would add my 2 cents. Level the yoke and lock it in place. Then check that both ailerons line up with the outside ends of the wings. Adjust as needed to get them even. Then check that the flaps line up with the ailerons. If you adjust the ailerons you need to adjust the flaps. If when flying straight and level and you have to turn the yoke to stay level you can adjust one aileron up or down as needed to trim it but you need to adjust that side flap as well. I hope this makes sense.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thanks Robert. Believe it or not I just got back from the hangar and I did that exact thing and re-routed the cable and re-rigged ailerons and flaps. Cable was done wrong by me last time I had wings off. Cable went under that 1" tube at the Chord instead of over it. Dennis Carley was consulted and that's what he suggested. Next is waiting for a dead calm morning and get into the pattern again and test it. I'll do it after takeoff when in my downwind leg. If all feels right I will do a touch and go and do that for an hour. Instructor saw my vid and suggested I practice pattern before moving on to cross-country. Thanks again for thinking about it and giving me another slant on things. Onward & Upward! :)

[@davidstrong3793]

@@aerolite103buildersvlog8 Please keep the videos coming I'm trying to learn from you

[@johnberryhill9333]

Late to the party here - but you appear to be pushing hard on the left rudder which would cause you to compensate by turning the yoke to the right. Nice flight

[@tracnunya7165]

every mxl that i checked needed a pound of weight in the right wing tip, no one checks left right balance. hang it from the root tube front and rear and balance the plane left and right, otherwise you use the ailerons all the time and add drag.

[@jackfrost2146]

Same thing happened to me. After a couple of hours dual instruction, I was doing bunny hops going higher each time. (maybe 20 passes) I ended up at about 150 ft and ran out of strip with a fence at the end. I could have safely landed at the field beyond, but that would be too uncool. Full power, up to about 500 ft and circle around for an uneventful landing. My first true solo!

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thank you, Jack, for sharing your experience with us. So you can relate, huh!!? Running out of room was my issue and if I had tried to stop at the end of the runway I'd have gone off the asphalt for sure and been left with hauling it up and out of the embankment at the end of the runway. Embarrassing. It was easier to just "go for it". Blue skies and tail-winds to you!!!

[@kwhalen3539]

Glad you made it back safe! The plane wants to fly! It does look like you are cross controlling. Looking at your feet it seems like you had left rudder in the whole time. That would make you fight with right aileron. Still good job keeping calm and flying the plane.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thank you. I do realize I was exacerbating the problem with incorrect inputs. But the aileron cable causing a bind was not helping me because I know what it's supposed to feel like. Like the left aileron, easy to move and deflect. Right one definitely had resistance due to my incorrect installation. That's why we "test" fly our airplanes and assess any potential issues and remedy them. Thanks for watching. Stay tuned for more. I re-rigged the cable and ailerons & flaps and just need to "test" fly it again.

[@stevemyers7698]

Looks like you greased it to me, good job.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thank you! :)

[@dntower85]

Check for a twist in the wing, if you didn't notice it when you were doing the crow hops when your were testing, it could be that the faster you go with a slight twist in the wing the more it wants to turn to the left. I noticed that when your were over the grass and you cut the power to try to get it back to the runway, it started to finally roll to the left. I had a RC plane that was that way, slow it was ok, fast it would roll with out any aileron correction. Congratulations, but careful with that Cross control and those skidding turns, that is how you stall and go in to a spin. Also fly the pattern.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thanks for the suggestion, Darrin. I actually had a cable to the aileron 'mis-routed' in an orientation that was most likely causing the resistance in one aileron and not the other. I text/called Dennis Carley, the manufacturer. I asked him if he'd ever heard of what I experienced. He said "Yes. Several times. It is usually caused by the aileron cable being incorrectly installed." So, I went to the hangar and checked. Sure enough when I put my wings back on the last time they were off, I put the left aileron cable on properly, but not the right one. It's supposed to go OVER a 1" inboard tube at the chord. It was under that tube and put a bind in the cable. Hence the resistance. I re-did it and then re-rigged BOTH ailerons and flaps. And when I fly next I need to STOP cross controlling the controls. That did NOT help matters. Only thing left is 'test fly it'. Stay tuned. Onward & upward. :)

[@olsonspeed]

Congratulations! Good job taking her around the patch, you have done your homework, now it is time to have fun. It is not the wife's fault, the I-Phone is primarily a phone and not the best tool for epic video, time to invest in a camera with a good telephoto zoom.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thank you! And I hear ya about it's not her fault. But a truly great camera is out of the price range. I'm going to work on getting more video cameras with time. Stay tuned. :)

[@MrKeithw124]

the best thing is you did not panic and flew the plane.. awsome job

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

My lanyard has a blue key fob on it with the saying; "Keep calm and fly on!" on it. I've been reading that thing for 3 years and it finally "sunk in", I guess. lol Thanks for following my exploits. :)

[@jcavery7362]

Congratulations, you finally popped that cherry. Accidental or not it's still an adrenaline rush to finally push that throttle all the way to the firewall and go fly. Hopefully next time you will have a better flight plan. Couple of observations, first, you seem to have a habit of locking your feet(mostly left rudder). Remember when some commenters were telling you to maintain the center line when you were practicing? Keep your feet moving. You were cross controlling (left rudder/right aileron) trying to maintain straight and level. Mainly because of bad habits. The other thing is maintaining a close pattern and altitude. Altitude is time/life.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thanks, JC! I will heed all the advice you and others have given. I definitely noticed many things in my 'de-brief' video. The GoPro's are priceless and I will have them on the plane from now on during any and every flight. The cross-controlling and and mis-routed 'push/pull' aileron cable was also a cause I fought resistance. I have fixed the problem, re-rigged the ailerons and flaps, and will try again on a dead-calm morning. Stay tuned and thanks again for the observations and comment.

[@justhangin7186]

Yep full left rudder with right aileron input the whole way

[@WanderingToes41]

I haven't flown a 103 yet, all my time is in 152s & 172s, but it looks like you did a good job. I dont know your total flying experience so just some general observations. As its a new airplane you'll probably need some adjustments as you tweak her out for flight. Hard to tell from the angles of the video but it looks like you're having to fight it to the right to maintain level flight, maybe a balance issue or control cable adjustments needed to level you out. Also hard to tell it looks like you're standing on the left rudder possibly out of initial fear. If that was the case you're putting it into a slip and once you relax it will settle down and perform much better. The part about not maintaining your place in the pattern will fix itself with experience and that just takes spending time up there to hone your skills. Remember your airspeed, its your lifeline. Have fun and fly safe!

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thank you. I wanted laser-tuned observations and you hit it on the head with everything I went thru. Like you were there (which I know you have, just saying). Just from watching. I'll heed your very sage advice. I want to be a proficient and skilled pilot so I can keep out of the danger zones. Onward & Upward!

[@pancho3937]

I think you're right; several times it looked like cross-control.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Yep. I think that was what I felt when trying to turn right. Newbie mistake and lots of adrenaline due to the surprise takeoff. Instructor said I did good when he saw vid. Just need more time and experience around the pattern, but after inspecting controls for possible cable mis-routed to right aileron. Self grounded till I inspect it closer. Might have to remove wing. We'll see.

[@pancho3937]

Very good camera position to observe your inputs.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Yes. I agree. I love the things. Got to get another GoPro for a different angle.

[@ironpug42]

Bet that made your goose bumps stand up and take notice lol that would be something i would do lol

[@jazzman5598]

And NEVER be afraid to GO AROUND!

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

If I was "afraid" I would have definitely crashed off the end of the runway. My training kicked in. ;)

[@jazzman5598]

I was terrified when I was learning. 👍

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

I needed to keep my wits. Training helped and I can't stress that enough that people find a instructor first before flying these things.

[@neilbarriskell7840]

Congratulations, kind of LOL... she looks fantastic

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Yeh, I wasn't expecting any maiden flight that morning, that's for sure. LOL But when it's all said and done, I literally loved it and it was soooo satisfying knowing you piloted your own plane and did it safely. Solo two is coming. I just fixed my right aileron cable. Now, lots more practice time in the pattern needed. Just like my taxi & air taxi I will do it till comfortable and move on from there. Stay tuned, and thanks for following me & my dream.

[@neilbarriskell7840]

AEROLITE 103 Builders Vlog sounds like a good way forward. I would suggest you do some hours with an ultralight instructor. You are doing a couple of things that need to be unlearned. If not every time you come under pressure you will revert to type. Best to get these re-educated at this stage. Looking forward to the next video!

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

@@neilbarriskell7840, I have hours of training. You have to understand the pucker factor. You'd be startled if that happened to you and you weren't expecting it. Plus my instructor is 50 miles away - one way. You figure it out. No Neil, I had an experience in my own aircraft that I had NEVER flown before. Plus I needed to 'test" her out. While a Quicksilver MX II is similar to mine, they are totally different. Especially with one less man in the cockpit. My instructor flew 10 hours with me and if he thought I should stop and continue with him, he'd have said something. Stay tuned. I'll get better after 'the pucker factor' calms down from being alone up there as Pilot in Command. Gotta happen one day, right?!! Thanks for the comments.

[@neilbarriskell7840]

AEROLITE 103 Builders Vlog difficult for me to judge from the video. In terms of training, all UK microlight / ultralight to you, must complete a license there are minimum hours 25, exams (Nav, weather, human performance, engines/airframe) plus a skills test. It means all pilots are in a place to handle the unexpected if they stay current. I appreciate this caught you out, but there was some basic things going a bit left, not correcting the swing of the Center line, cross control, poor circuit, poor approach etc. a wee bit more instructor time backed up with a bit more time in your own aircraft will get that ironed out. In the end it’s about being safe enough to enjoy the wonderful aircraft you have built

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Not here in America, Neil. No license for Part 103 here. Just a Driving license in good standing works here. My instructor can NOT help me with my own aircraft. That's entirely on me, mate! Stay tuned, my UK friend. It's all going to turn out just fine and I will have a great time developing my skills in MY own single seat aircraft, as I go. There's an old saying: "Airspeed. Altitude. Brains. One needs TWO of the three to survive." Cheers!

[@jazzman5598]

Try & get comfortable in ground effect so the mains hit first. Terrific flying Bud.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Roger!

[@davidholdman8015]

Awesome

[@frankcloskey7789]

Very good pilot. 2/12 2021

[@Cool-Lake]

Looks like you've had plenty of input. But here's my 2 cents worth. It appeared your main focus was on keeping your wings level, even in your turns. You definitely had left rudder the full time and crossed controlled with right aileron. I couldn't see a wind indicator but it seems possible you had a cross wind that initially pushed you off the runway to the left. From there, you seemed to focus primarily on keeping the wings level. As you know, cross controlling can get you into trouble, especially from base to final. I doubt you have a problem with your ailerons except that your extreme concern with keeping the wings level. But time will tell. Congratulations on a safe landing.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

I appreciate your .02 cents worth. Truly. Spot on for my performance. Definitely I see myself in debrief video all bad inputs that you pointed out and will correct those in the next flight. If you made it to the end of the video you should have heard that I contacted the manufacturer and he advised to check the cable on the offending side. It was not correct and needed to be re-oriented. Aileron's and flaps are re-rigged. I have yet to take flight two while waiting for additional camera equipment. Stay tuned for new flight video coming. Two vantage points of me (one from left strut & one from right strut), a chin mounted camera on front of plane, and a rear view. Stay tuned. And thank you for the "congrats" on my safe landing. Not the last "safe" one. ;)

[@WendelltheSongwriter]

I'm going to guess it doesn't take too much pressure on either one of those pedals to to keep a good deflection on your rudder, and that can toss your entire rigging into an uncoordinated situation period but let me say this, really nice looking landing, for your first one after a pretty exciting circuit. I've decided I'm getting an arrow light 103 myself, really thank you for this video.

[@dh-flies]

Screwing is less offensive than dicking? 12:25 LOL!! You did great. That 103 was the Ultralight I would have bought had I not decided on a Light Sport Plane. Congrats on your mistake...now keep it going. You landed like an old pro.

[@epretorious]

1. Plan your flight. Fly your plan. 2. When applying ailerons: Use the skip-skid indicator on your panel (I /believe/ that I've seen it on your panel) to determine the correct direction and amount of rudder to apply.

[@epretorious]

Have you read "Stick & Rudder" yet, Phil? (It's a must-read for pilots!)

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Yes. Thanks for the comments.

[@clouddancer7624]

It did look like your left foot was applying left rudder, and you were applying right aileron. Cross controlling seems to be the problem. Most learn to cross control after they get their "Private". You were ahead of the game. All joking aside, you did well. I'm sure you will be fine. Knowing what cross controlling is, you will be aware of it, next time. Cross controlling is very helpful when you are too high to land, and you really need to land. You can lose altitude quickly by lowering your speed a bit, applying say right rudder, and left aileron. You will be able to land quickly, and learn how to successfully use cross controlling to your benefit. If you fly RC, that would be a good first attempt to try cross controlling. I am curious why you chose the Aerolite 103, instead of the, Kolb, for an example? I am a Private from 1978, and have owned a Beech "Musketeer", and a Grumman American "Yankee". Loved the Yankee, but after 10 years, I did sell it. Now retired, and still in my Medical, I'm considering an ultralight aircraft.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Thank you for your observations. I appreciate it more than you know. You're right, next time I'll be hyper-aware of NOT doing it for normal flight operations. But I understand the use and need if coming over high trees on a short runway. As to my choice of Ultralight I chose the Aerolite 103 because she presented herself in Barnstormers one day at the right price and the seller was in my state, a few hours drive away. He needed to sell his home due to personal reasons and needed to get out from under the Ultralight sitting un-finished in his home garage. So, the rest is history. Kolb was my original desire due to the folding wings and being able to park it at home if need be. That was my primary reason for the desire to have a Kolb. As fate would have it I got the Aerolite and am NOT sorry I did. She has all the bells and whistles in as far as having all control axis (i.e. ailerons, flaps, rudder and elevator). That said my maiden flight made me appreciate it that much more. I ride a motorcycle and have over 42 years. The Aerolite is my motorcycle for the sky. I had to have the wind in my face and I am a fair weather rider, so, flying will be the same. I hope that answered all your questions and again, I really appreciate your input. Follow that Ultralight dream because the FAA rules go out the window and you'll become a true "Wright Brothers" pilot. There's nothing like that feeling. Trust me.

[@clouddancer7624]

@@aerolite103buildersvlog8 Thanks for your reply. It is a pleasure to receive such a positive reply. Thanks again, and please, never let anyone hear you say, upon landing, "Dead Stick"! Now one added little something you can play on any pilot, as most will not know the answer. Goes like this, "ask any pilot you know, what is the most useless altitude there is"? Think about it, the ONLY altitude you simply cannot use, especially if you are having a, say engine out situation. Try to answer it tonight. This Florida pilot will tell you the answer if you write back.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

@@clouddancer7624 Thanks for your reply. You're welcome, by the way. I enjoy the communication with anyone that is in love with aviation. As for your trick question I have never heard that question asked of anyone I know, nor in any of the circle of friends I associate with. What's the ONLY altitude you can't use? You got me. I'm at a loss. Please edify me. I apologize if that was the lazy answer but I am truly stumped. Waiting for your reply. ;)

[@clouddancer7624]

Answer: The Altitude above You!

[@clouddancer7624]

@@aerolite103buildersvlog8 Answer: "The Altitude Above you". With an engine out, or even anything less, the plane will be going down, hopefully under some control, so the only altitude you CAN use, is the altitude below you, thus the altitude you cannot use, is that altitude Above You! No one ever thinks of that. Now you can pull that on any of your friends. Coming from a Private Pilot from 1978, and an RC pilot from 1975. Still fly RC Pattern today, but I do not have a full size plane today, and I would love one. Sold my two planes, years ago. A Beech Musketeer, which I didn't like with that awful flying stab, and my Grumman Yankee. Loved that plane. Had it for about 15 years, then sold it. Now retired, I'm a Looking. Best of luck to you, sir. Even though I'm in my 70's, but still have my annual physical Class III medical. Good Luck!

[@audiecarter8886]

YOUR A PILOT NOW!!! yepee

[@rjmoreci]

Hey Phil I have an Aero Lite 103 and live in Jamestown up the hill about 20 miles. Haven’t flown it yet but have taxied like you. I would like to be hangered at Oakdale and start flying it. How would I get a hold of you.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Hey Richard. Sorry it took a month to reply. To my knowledge there are no hangers 'open' and available at the moment. I have heard of one that might be going to auction due to a pilot's recent passing away from natural causes. His hangar and immaculately restored Piper 'Cub' will be auctioned off at Modesto Airport (KMOD) but I am not sure of the date. It's possibly already happened. All that said you might just want to call the Oakdale city offices and speak to a gal name 'Debbie' about possible hangar openings at Oakdale Muni (027). Their telephone number is; [phone]. Good luck!

[@rjmoreci]

@@aerolite103buildersvlog8 thanks Phil for the reply. Would like to stop by sometime to talk about our 103s. You could probably give me some points of view. I have a good friend at that field who has an RV6 who I’ve flown with. You might know Dennis Bailey. I took a lesson with Bill in an ultra lite at Lodi a number of years ago.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

@@rjmoreci Dennis' RV6A is awesome. At the last 'Young Eagles' event I had an opportunity to go up with him and he let me fly it. It's an awesome plane. But all of VANS planes are awesome. :) He just got his new panel put in and he's 'glass' panel now. I'd love to meet up so when you feel like coming down for a visit hit me up and give me an ETA and we can do that. Bill Bardin is a great guy, too, by the way. "Blue Skies and Tail Winds" to ya. ;)

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

Richard. I have good news. There's a hangar FOR RENT. No price shown on the sign though. The contact number is [phone] and Ian is the person to talk to. Hope that helps. Good luck!

[@rjmoreci]

@@aerolite103buildersvlog8 I can’t believe it. We have more in common then I thought. I didn’t say but had an opportunity to fly his plane as well. He picked me up in Columbia and we flew around the area. I had the controls for about 20 min. Awesome plane to fly and just an awesome plane. Couldn’t land obviously but it flies like easy. I have probably 25 hours flying and navigating a 172 Cessna through a company I worked for. Would take the controls while the boss slept. I got to know Denny from my wife who had a relationship with him before me through school and we have done things together as couples. He’s a great guy. We’ll have to hook up.

[@jamiecaudill5915]

Cool

[@ikayak100]

It might be a good time to find a good CFI to at least get the basics down.

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

I don't need to find one. Already have one. Flew with him 10 hours. He's seen everything I have done, to date. Basics?? Imagine you were me, and had 10 hours hours of flight training in a 2 seat, ultralight aircraft. That 'training' isn't going to provide me the single seat environment ALL 'solo' pilots eventually have to deal with. Right? That said I appreciate your concerns. I would need way more space to relate all the things that I dealt with on that 'solo' flight in my own, single seat airplane. Bottom line. It was my 1st flight in my own single seat aircraft and what I considered a emergency situation having an aileron issue that I had to work through in order to get the plane and myself on the ground safely. Plus the cross-controlling. But I got her down strictly because of that training. Or I'd have been a sad statistic like many G.A. pilots are now. Lastly, any landing you walk away from is a good one. Have you gone thru what I did? Ever? If so, you know. If NOT, you don't know what I went through at all and sat at your computer comfortably watching me do what I had to - to make it - or break it. I think I did well and controlled the aircraft adequately under the circumstances. Thanks for the comment.

[@tylerrockwell6080]

Why not get more instruction until your comfortable? Glad you made it back

[@aerolite103buildersvlog8]

I appreciate the advice and comment, Tyler. Truly. My 'comfort level', though, was taken by surprise and I went into "fly the plane" mode. The plane was giving me signals something wasn't right and THAT is what you guys saw. My instructor saw this vid too and said "well done" except for the unintentional departure. But that was the ONLY choice at that moment - or crash off the end of the runway. So, you got to see some gonads whether it looked like I was scared - or not. I know my airplane and that motor has 30 hours on it without so much as a hicc-up. I knew she'd stay running and fly but was confused, over the aileron issue and battling my own cross-control. I "gut it out", because that was the ONLY course of action in that situation - and I got her down safely - and can do it again safely. Stay tuned.

[@buddyl962]

Read "Stick and Rudder" By Wolfgang Langeweishe. Excellent book, clearly explains, in laymans terms, how to properly fly an airplane.

[@johng3929]

Sometimes it's hard to only trot a horse that just wants to run.

[@straycatvideos1574]

the wind blew you off the centerline, you were in (ground effect ) and reversed the normal traffic pattern ...that was not your FIRST flight, youve been doing it all along, just at a really low altitude .... congratulations .!!! reminds me of a fledglings bird !!! LOL LOL !!!

[@roseanncloskey]

A good landing is a safe landing.