Graupner Hydro 3D

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Graupner Hydroplane 3D

Nov 14, 2007

Land or sea, this one does it all

Modeled after modern hydroplane race boats, the new Graupner Hydro Plane3D certainly looks like a boat at first glance. It has sponsons and a hull like a boat. The Hydro Plane is modeled after modern turbine-powered hydroplane race boats capable of extremely high speeds. In reality, they spend most of each race barely touching the water, flying in ground effect. This one is different, though, as it actually flies higher, and very nicely, too. The Hydro Plane 3D is one of the most unique park flyers I have ever flown. It is a semi-scale hydrofoil boat that operates in all three dimensionsthis one flies! Through the use of laser-cut and molded foam parts, the Hydro Plane builds quickly and is relatively durable. Loops, rolls, inverted, and harrier flight are all possible with this flying boat. The stunned look of amazement from onlookers is priceless as the Hydro Plane cruises the lake as a boat, then jumps effortlessly into the air!

First flights for the Hydro should be done over soft ground with a hand launch from a helper. I chose a ball field with soft grass and no obstructions. That the Hydro looked more like a boat than an airplane didnt inspire the confidence I am used to with a new model, but I couldnt have been more wrong. From the first toss, the Hydro has been very stable! With 1/2 throttle and a gentle toss, the Hydro was off under its own power. I found it to be very responsive in roll and pitch with the stock control throw