Horizon Hobby ParkZone VisionAire

Written by Jay Smith Full review on page 50 in the April 2013 issue of Model Aviation magazine and tablet app. Our exclusive look at Horizon Hobby's first park flyer with AS3X technology, designed to help you become a better pilot.

Quique Somenzini talks with Jay Smith about the VisionAire. SPECIFICATIONS Model type: Park flyer Skill level: Beginner builder; intermediate pilot Wingspan: 45 inches Wing area: 539 square inches Airfoil: Symmetrical Length: 42.5 inches Weight: 43.7 ounces Power system: 10-size BL10 brushless motor (included); 40-amp brushless ESC (included); 2200 mAh 3S 25C LiPo battery (included); 12x4 electric propeller (included) Radio: Four-channel DSM2 or DSMX compatible transmitter. Construction/finish: Z-Foam with decals Street price: $ 299.99 TEST-MODEL DETAILS Motor: E-flite BL10 Brushless Outrunner (included) ESC: E-flite 40-Amp Lite Pro Switch-Mode BEC Brushless ESC (included) Battery: ParkZone 2200mAh 3S 25C Li-Po (included) Propeller: 12x4 electric propeller (included) Radio system: Spektrum DX18 Ready-to-fly weight: 43.7 ounces Flight duration: 5-6 minutes PLUSES • Extremely easy to assemble • AS3X supports computer and non-computer radios • Rigid, lightweight airframe • Double-beveled hinges for large control surface throws • Stabilization instills confidence when trying new maneuvers MINUSES • AR635 receiver manual not included (available online) • Trim or sub-trim cannot be used with 3D Mode Quique Somenzini demonstrates the 3-D capability of the VisionAire at the AMA Expo in Ontario, California. The low parts count means less time building, but be sure to read the manual thoroughly. The VisionAire uses digital servos to take full advantage of the AS3X stabilization system. Sub-trim should not be used when setting up the airplane. The horizontal stabilizer uses a carbon fiber tube for support and the two halves simply slide onto the tube, much like the wing. A small plastic joiner and eight pieces of tape hold the horizontal stabilizer in place. The wing fences are marked for each wing and the bottom set has integrated plastic skids to protect them. They fit snugly in the wings slots and are held in place using the included double sided tape seen in the picture. The battery hatch is very easy to remove thanks to its push button battery latch. The battery bay provides extra room to shift the battery forward or back The clear receiver cover provides access to the receiver and rudder and elevator servos. It also allows line of sight of the LEDs on the AR635 receiver for use in programming as well as determining the number of holds that have occurred since the receiver was last powered on. Zach Miller hovers the VisonAire with ease. He has found it to be an excellent 3-D trainer. Read the entire review on page 50 in the April 2013 issue of Model Aviation magazine.

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