Before You Fly the E-Flite SR-71 Blackbird

Lockheed sr-71 blackbird

The Lockheed SR-71 Black Bird is a marvel of aviation history, known for its unofficial top speed of Mach 3.3 and its ability to soar at over 85,000 feet while outrunning missiles. Now, E-Flite brings this iconic aircraft to the world of radio control. I’m Alex from Hangar14, and here's everything you need to know before you fly the E-Flite SR-71 Blackbird.

E-Flite SR-71 Blackbird BNF - Hangar14RC

Specifications and Features

E-Flite unveiled their compact SR-71 model in late Summer 2023. With a length of 37.6 inches and a wingspan of 19.9 inches, it matches the size of typical 64mm EDF jets. Instead of a single 64mm ducted fan, it boasts dual 40mm ducted fans driven by 6800kv brushless motors. The recommended battery is a 4-cell 2200mAh LiPo, leading to a takeoff weight of about 29.4 ounces.

This Bind and Fly Basic model comes equipped with AS3X and SAFE technologies, ensuring stability in the air—a necessity given the SR-71’s design. The plane's EPO foam construction provides detailed panel lines and a sleek look. The landing gear mirrors the real SR-71’s triple-wheel setup, though they are non-retractable and snap into place.

The SR-71 includes two sets of vertical stabilizers: standard black and a red pair for better visibility. Control surfaces are limited to elevons, with no rudder, but the steerable nose wheel is a practical addition. Four linear Spektrum servos come pre-installed, keeping the model lightweight and compact.

The Highlights

Out of the box, the EFlite SR-71 requires minimal assembly. Just attach your preferred tail set and landing gear. The ball link connectors for control surfaces are user-friendly and effective. The plane’s compatibility with the 4S 2200mAh LiPo battery used in other Horizon and EFlite models is a bonus, as you can reuse your existing batteries.

Transporting the SR-71 is a breeze due to its compact wingspan. The removable rubber nose cone prevents damage during transport, but just know you will never be able to get it perfectly straight. Priced at $250, it’s a reasonable deal, especially given its dual motors. Despite some quirks, it’s one of my favorite planes to fly right now and it looks stunning in the sky.

The Drawbacks

Despite its small size, the SR-71 feels heavy in the air. Its design demands high speed for lift, relying on the power of its 6800KV brushless motors and 40mm fans. This means you’ll be flying at full throttle most of the time, with limited authority for climbs and maneuvers.

The iconic engine nacelle intake cones, while visually accurate, reduce the efficiency of the EDFs. The additional intakes at the back help, but performance is still impacted. AS3X and SAFE are crucial for maintaining stability, especially during tight turns and low-speed flight.

Flying Tips

Before your first flight, here are some key points:

Paved Surface Required: The tiny wheels can’t handle grass, you will need a paved runway for takeoff and it will take a bit to get into the air.
Low Ground Clearance: Be cautious during takeoff and landing to avoid scraping the rear end. Fortunately, the rear is made of plastic, which handles scrapes better than foam.
Secure Landing Gear: Ensure the landing gear is properly snapped in place. A loose gear can detach upon landing, causing damage.
Visibility Matters: The red tails enhance visibility, crucial for maintaining orientation during flight. Even experienced pilots might struggle with the all-black look.
Space Needed: Fly in a large area. The SR-71’s flight characteristics require gentle stick movements and wide turns, needing more room than you might expect.

Conclusion

The EFlite SR-71 is labeled as a skill level 3 “Experience Required” airplane for a reason. Even seasoned pilots might find it challenging due to its unique flying dynamics. However, transforming the legendary SR-71 into a flyable RC model is no small feat. While not perfect, it’s far from a bad model. I’m excited to continue exploring its capabilities, including hand launches without landing gear.

Before you fly the eflite sr-71 blackbird