What do you focus on when you're flying?

[Gary Anderson]

Hi guys,

I was just wondering what the expert fliers focus on?  I use both methods and they work, I'm like a Little kid, I like the first image but try to fly by the second. Just another dumb question and would appreciate your input. Thank you Gary. (I've got way to much time on hand!)

[Clint Ormosen]

I focus on not crashing!

Actually, In level and inverted flight I focus on the model. In maneuvers, I focus on the background.

[Steve Kocher]

I fly the same as Clint -- focus on the airplane while flying level to avoid getting dizzy and focus on the background to pick up the ground and vertical reference points during the maneuvers.

Steve.

[ash]

I have wondered this myself because I have trouble observing what the model is doing when trimming. I read of experts noting the yaws and twitches they see and trim out, but I have to really concentrate to see that stuff and fly at the same time.

I'm not really focussing on the background though, more of a relaxed gaze where I can see the the model drawing shapes on the backdrop.

[Randy Powell]

>>What do you focus on when you're flying?<<

The Airplane.

[Leo Mehl]

I focus on the front part of the airplane. It makes it eisier to see the ground at same time as you make the turns.

[Joe Messinger]

Well, I'm far from being an expert flier but thought I would offer my experiences on the "focus" subject.

I got back to c/l flying about four years ago.  Big problem with dizziness.  I have some blood pressure issues and take medication for that so perhaps that contributed to getting dizzy easily.  Gradually, it became less of a problem.  I discovered that if I would look away from the plane and focus on a stationary object (tree, car, flag, etc.) for just a second then return to the plane, it helped greatly.  I don't have much dizziness now. I think, obviously, it wouldn't be so good to direct your attention -from- the plane while doing maneuvers so I only looked away during level flight.  That's contrary to the afore mentioned posts and I understand the need to know where the plane is in relation to the ground especially during maneuvers.  Apparently, I do check the background while doing loops and such otherwise I would be buying a new plane weekly.  I'm just not aware of doing that (checking the background) when I'm flying.

Again, I'm only offering my experience with what has helped me and not at all suggesting my technique is best.  I'm sure with more experience, other methods of viewing the plane during flight will become apparent.

Joe

[Mike Spiess]

What do you focus on when you're flying
I focus on not crashing-then I focus on getting all the pieces picked up

[Peter Ferguson]

My feet! I've already been wrapped up in the stooge line once, that was enough.

[John deLafosse]

I always focus on how much I will get paid for flying.  LOL.