Copyright of RotorSport UK Ltd
Document number RSUK0060
Page 88 of 101 Page issue 3, dated 02.04.12
7. HANDLING, MAINTENANCE AND SERVICING
7.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter contains manufacturers’ recommendations for correct ground storage of the
autogyro, and also recommendations for maintenance and servicing required for
performance and reliability. Reference should also be made to the aircraft service manual.
The regular care and cleanliness of engine, propeller, rotor system and enclosure is the
first point for aircraft reliability. Do this on a regular basis, more often if weather demands.
Insect debris build up on the rotors and propeller reduce performance and increase
vibration. In order to avoid bird droppings or soiling of the Calidus, cover the aircraft with
the aircraft cover (available from RSUK), a light plastic tarpaulin or a cloth. Always protect
the canopy with a clean soft lint free cover!
Openings to the engine, service points and airspeed indicator and static ports should be
closed after the flight (beware of insects, birds etc.). Contamination of the autogyro can be
removed with clean water, with low strength cleaning additives.
The parking area of the aircraft should be protected from the sun, wind and humidity. If it
stands continuously outside, then it is exposed to strong UV ageing, corrosion by
humidity, sun and wind, and the manufacturers will take no responsibility for the safety
margins eroded by such actions. In strong sunlight the interior of the cabin will get very
hot. This is detrimental to the aircraft, so either leave the canopy slightly open (bearing in
mind wind direction and propeller wash) or cover with a reflective canopy to reflect the
sun’s rays
Dark-coloured aircraft are particularly susceptible to heat build-up from direct sunlight that
can cause surface imperfections or distortion to appear in the composite parts. Dark-
coloured composites should be protected from prolonged exposure to sunlight-induced
high temperatures whenever possible. All aircraft can be damaged by storage in
exceptionally humid conditions, as moisture will cause excessive corrosion and can
penetrate into the composite materials causing blisters to appear under the paint finish.
Whenever possible storage should be in dark, dry conditions.
7.2 REGULAR MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS
It is the owner and pilots responsibility to ensure the aircraft is properly maintained in
accordance with the Maintenance Manual, document no. RSUK0061. Failure to do so
may
invalidate your Permit to Fly. Maintenance and inspection tasks must be performed by
CAA (or LAA if an LAA permit) authorised persons or organisations. Repair processes
such as welding or composite layup, or others not documented in the maintenance
manual, require prior repair process approval from RSUK/CAA.
An annual aircraft inspection and flight test is currently required.
