Horizon Hobby AerBird3 Instruction Manual

Instruction Manual

The Place to Start

™

Your Aerobird 3™ adventures are about to begin. In order to have a
safe and successful experience, please read and follow this instructional
manual carefully. To enhance your flying experience, we have also
included an instructional DVD that will provide you with flying tips and
help you learn how to perform advanced aerial maneuvers.

While easy to fly, the Aerobird 3 is not intended for beginner pilots.
If you have never flown one of HobbyZone’s Zone 1 or 2 airplanes or
any other radio controlled aircraft, we recommend you seek the help
of an experienced radio control pilot during your beginning flights.
Crash damage is not covered under the warranty. Your Aerobird 3 is
equipped with the ZX10 radio system, which utilizes 10-bit, 1024-step
processing for high fidelity control. It uses a 6-channel FM receiver
with industry standard 3-wire servos, along with X-Port capability for
maximum expandability and reusability.

The Aerobird 3 is equipped with some exciting features, including a
Multi-Mode™ Flight Control system. The controller onboard the plane
is programmed with two flight modes, Sport Mode (Low Rate) and

The Place to Start

™

3

Crash damage is not covered
under the warranty.

Be sure to read the warranty
on page 36 and "Warnings and
Safety" on page 33 before you
proceed to Step 1.

Pro Mode (High Rate). The default Sport Mode is great for pilots
transitioning from 2-channel planes and for those who want a more
relaxed flying experience.

The Pro Mode changes the Aerobird 3’s characteristics, and allows more
aggressive maneuvers for those who want it!

The Aerobird 3 is also equipped with HobbyZone’s exclusive X-Port™
feature. This allows the attachment of exciting accessories, including
the Sonic Combat Module™ (HBZ4020) for air-to-air combat, and the
Aerial Drop Module™ (HBZ6023), which allows items such as the
parachute jumper and streamer bombs to be dropped. See page 28
for more on the X-Port.

Be sure to read the warranty on page 36 and "Success Tips" on page
33 before you proceed to Step 1.

Step 1



1. Remove the transmitter back cover by
pushing down with your thumbs, as
indicated.

2. Install batteries. Use fresh 1.5V "AA"
and watch the polarity.

3. Replace the cover.

4. To test, switch on the transmitter—
the LED should glow brightly.

5. Replace the batteries when you hear
the low-battery alarm (beeping sound).

Needed for Step 1

8 "AA" Batteries (included)

Transmitter

2. Once you're satisfied that the wing is
centered, attach the wing using the 6
rubber bands provided. Stretch two of
the rubber bands from the front to the
rear attach points. Stretch the next two
diagonally across the middle. Stretch the
last two rubber bands from the front to
rear attach points as you did with the first
two. Once the rubber bands are in place,
confirm the wing is securely attached.

3. Before each flight, make sure the front
and trailing edges of the wing are exactly

centered on the fuselage.Rc

Step 2

5

Mounting the Landing Gear

1. Insert the landing gear into the slot on
bottom of the fuselage.

Note: When flying without X-Port™
modules and landing on grass, it is not
necessary to have the landing gear installed.

Attaching the Wing

1. Center the wing on the fuselage by
aligning the center dot on the wing with
the fuselage top seam and by centering
the half circle on the wing’s trailing edge
over the fuselage center.

Needed for Step 2

Rubber Bands (x6)
Main Landing Gear

Wing and Landing Gear Attachment

Step 2

6

Wing and Landing Gear Attachment continued

Attaching the Tail Wheel

• Installation of the included tail wheel is
optional. If added, be extremely careful
to adjust the tail screws and tail to their
original positions.

Step 3

7

Motor Test

1. Be sure the throttle slider is in the Off
position.

2. Turn the transmitter on.

3. Install the battery in the fuselage slot and
plug in the connector.

4. The Aerobird 3™ has a built-in throttle
arming feature, which needs to “see” the
throttle slider in the Off position before it
will spin the propeller. First, keep all
objects clear of the propeller at all times.
Ensure the throttle is in the Off position,
then advance the throttle forward and the
propeller will start to turn. Since most
batteries come partially charged, the
propeller should spin at high speed. The
throttle arming feature will need to be
activated each time the battery is
plugged into the airplane (If the motor
does not run, proceed to Step 4:
“Charging the Aircraft Battery”).

5. When finished with the motor test, be
sure to disconnect the battery first then
turn off the transmitter.

Adult Supervision Required

WARNING: Keep everything clear of the

propeller and hold the plane securely. A
moving propeller can cause severe injury.

Step 

8

Charging the Aircraft Battery

This charger uses a unique peak detection
circuitry that ensures an accurate charge
every time and protects your Ni-Cd and
Ni-MH batteries from the dangers of over­charging. This charger continually monitors
the battery’s charge curve and automatically
stops charging when the peak charge is
detected. The peak detection charger will
help avoid damaging Ni-Cd and Ni-MH cells.

Important:

The Aerobird 3™ battery should be charged
shortly before flying. If you charge the
battery 12 to 24 hours prior to flying, you
will need to “re-peak” the battery before
you fly by repeating the steps on page 9.

DC Peak Detect Charger Features:

• Variable charge rate from 0.3- to 1.2-amp.
charge rate

• Trickle charge

• Automobile 12V power outlet DC adapter

• HobbyZone® large battery pack connector

• Charges Ni-Cd and Ni-MH battery packs

• LED charge indicator

Step 

9

Charging the Aircraft Battery (continued)

Charging HobbyZone Ni-MH Battery
Packs

1. Using the dial indicator on the side of the
charger, set the charge rate as indicated
in the chart below.

2. Connect the battery pack to the charger.

3. Connect the charger to the 12V power
outlet in your automobile. The LED will
continually blink slowly while the battery
charges.

4. Charging is finished when the LED
indicator glows steadily

Note: If you purchase the connector adapter
(HBZ1027), you can use your peak charger
to charge other HobbyZone airplane and
boat batteries. Use the charge rates from
the chart at the left.

Note: Damage to the charger and battery
pack will occur if you exceed the maximum
charge rates recommended in the chart.

Safety Precautions

Do not leave the battery and charger
unattended while in use. While charging,
place the battery on a heat resistant surface
and constantly monitor the temperature of
the battery pack. Do not allow children to
charge batteries unless they are supervised
by a responsible adult.

Battery Capacity Maximum Typical
Charge Rate Charge Time

Aerobird3

1000mAh 7.2 and 8.4V Ni-MH 1.2 amps 40 minutes*

Other HobbyZone Batteries

600mAh 4.8 and 6.0V Ni-MH 0.8 amps 40 minutes*

Requires connector adapter (sold separately)

300mAh 6.0V Ni-MH 0.4 amps 40 minutes*

Requires connector adapter (sold separately)

* Above charge times are only estimates. Actual charge times may vary.

Step 5

10

Tail Control Test

1. Be sure the throttle slider is in the
Off position.

2. Switch on the transmitter—check to make
sure the LED is lit, indicating the trans­ mitter has power.

3. Install battery in fuselage and plug in
connector.

4. Move the stick side to side. The tail
control surfaces should move as shown
on the following page.

5. Move the stick up and down. The tail
control surfaces should move as shown
on the following page.

6. The small levers under and to the side
of the control stick are the trim levers
and are used to adjust the “neutral”
point of your control stick. It’s very
important that this lever is centered
when performing these control tests.

7. If each control surface is not level with the
rest of the tail surface when the trim levers
are centered, adjust the control surfaces
so they are level (see page 12).

Warning: Keep everything clear of the
propeller before starting the control test
in the event that you accidentally turn on
the motor.

Elevator

Trim Lever

Rudder

Trim Lever

Step 5

11

Tail Control Test (continued)

View from Rear

Rudder Controls

(Sport Mode)

Elevator Controls

Rudder Controls

(Pro Mode)

Moves

Up

Moves

Down

Down Elevator

Up Elevator

Moves

Up

Moves

Up

Right Rudder

Left Rudder

Moves

Up

Moves

Down

Step 6

12

Making Adjustments—Leveling the Tail Control
Surfaces

Before making your first flight, if tail
control surfaces are not level with rest of tail
surface, adjust them so they are level
by doing the following:

1. Be sure the throttle slider is in the Off
position.

2. Turn the transmitter on, plug in the
aircraft battery and center the right
control stick and trim levers.

3. Loosen the round spool on the control
surface. Move the control surface back
to neutral and re-tighten the spool.

Step 7

13

Choose a Large, Open Grassy Field

• A large, open grass field is required. The
Aerobird 3™ flies approximately 20 mph,
so it covers ground fast. The bigger the
field, the better!

• It is absolutely essential to have a
minimum of 300 feet of clear space in
all directions from the pilot. If you ignore
this direction, you will regret it.

Important: Do not fly over or near people,
buildings, power lines, highways, train
tracks, vehicles, trees, water, pavement,
gravel, any hard surface or any object you
don't want to crash into. Please take this
warning seriously to keep people, property
and your Aerobird 3 safe. Crash damage is

not covered by the warranty.

Step 8

14

• If the flag hangs down,
it’s good to fly.

• If the angle between the antenna
and the flag is less than 20˚, it’s
too windy for your first flights.

Choose a Calm Day

You want to fly! If you wait until the day is
right, you will have a successful flight. On
your first flights, do not fly if the wind is
more than 7 mph!

To check wind conditions:

1. Tie the included red flag to the end of
the transmitter antenna.

2. Hold the transmitter flat so the antenna
is parallel to the ground and note how
much the flag moves in the wind.

SUCCESS TIP: Flying in too much wind is by
far the #1 reason for crashes and/or lost
planes. Follow these guidelines to protect the
Aerobird 3™—you’ll be glad you did.

Step 9

15

Range Test

1. One person holds the transmitter; the
other person walks 100 paces away with
the airplane.

2. Be sure the throttle slider is in the off
position.

3. Extend transmitter antenna completely
and turn transmitter on.

4. Plug in airplane battery and close hatch
cover.

5. As soon as you move the throttle slider
forward the propeller should spin quickly.

6. As the first person moves the transmitter
controls at the same time, the other
person watches to be sure the airplane’s
motor and tail controls operate smoothly.

Warning: The person holding the airplane
should hold it so that the propeller does not
come in contact with any part of their body.

You will need two people to do the range
test: one to hold the transmitter and one to
hold the airplane.

If model does not range test correctly, do not
fly. Call Horizon Hobby Product Support staff
toll-free at 1-877-504-0233 for directions on
how to proceed.

Step 10

16

Seek Assistance from an Experienced
Radio Control Pilot

VERY IMPORTANT

The 3-channel control system is designed
for the experienced radio control pilot and
is not intended for the first-time flyer. If
you can successfully fly the HobbyZone®
Firebird Phantom™, Firebird Commander 2®
or Super Cub, then you should be ready for
the Aerobird 3™. The Aerobird Challenger
can be controlled in a similar manner as a
2-channel plane, such as the Firebird

Commander 2, by simply limiting control
stick movements to the left or the right and
using the throttle to ascend or descend.
However, first-time pilots of the Aerobird 3
should seek the assistance of an experienced
RC flyer until the additional third channel,
pitch control, has been competently
mastered. Crash damage is not covered
under the warranty.

The flying characteristics of the Aerobird 3
should not be altered for your first flights.
Once you are comfortable flying the plane
in the standard configuration, i.e. the out-of­the-box configuration, only then should you
attempt to change the flying characteristics of
the Aerobird 3 by changing hole positions in
the control horns and adding wing streamers.

Hand Launch

1. On first flights, have a second person
(adult recommended) launch the
Aerobird 3™ while the pilot controls with
the transmitter. Adult assistance is always
recommended with pilots 12 years of age
or younger.

2. Make sure the battery is fully charged.

3. While holding the transmitter in one
hand, push throttle slider to full on (up)
with thumb.

4. Take a couple of steps and launch the
model directly into the wind. Keep the
wings level. Use medium force. Do not
throw it up or down. Point it level
(parallel) with the ground when releasing.
Think of it as a javelin that you are
throwing 20 feet away.

Step 11

17

Watch out! Keep the spinning propeller
away from your hair, head and hands or
injury may occur.

Important: Before launching, determine
the wind direction by watching which way
the red transmitter ribbon is blowing.

Step 12

18

Runway Takeoff

(Not recommended for inexperienced pilots)

1. Stand behind the Aerobird 3™ and point
it directly into the wind on smooth
asphalt or concrete.

2. Apply full power and adjust the right
control stick as necessary to keep the
Aerobird 3 headed directly into the wind.

3. If battery is fully charged, your Aerobird 3
should lift off the ground in approximately
35 feet. Apply some UP elevator by pull­ ing the stick back slightly, and the plane
should lift off the ground in a shorter
distance.

Step 13

19

Flying

1. After launching, the Aerobird 3™ will
begin climbing at full throttle. Keep the
throttle full on.

2. Make right and left adjustments of the
control stick to keep it flying straight into
the wind. Don’t attempt a turn until the
Aerobird 3 reaches 50 feet of altitude.

3. Control range is 2500 feet. Don’t let
the plane fly too far away. Keep upwind,
especially if wind is over 10 mph, or the
wind may carry it out of sight and/or
control range. Your first flights on the
Aerobird 3 should be on Low Rate (which
will limit the travel of the control surfaces).
After you have gained more experience,
you can switch to High Rate.

Important: Don’t hold the stick to the right
or left full over for more than 2 seconds.
This can cause the model to spiral dive and
crash. Do not try to climb too steeply, as
very little UP elevator (pull back on stick)
should be required.

Throttle

Step 13

20

Flying (continued)

Turning

Move the stick in the direction you want the
model to turn. Avoid holding full right or full
left for more than 2 seconds, as this will cause
the plane to spiral dive and it could crash.

Sharp Turns

Move the stick in the direction you want to
turn and add some UP elevator at the same
time, i.e. pull the stick back. The plane will
make a sharper banking turn.

Rudder Trim

If the model always turns one direction, use
the trim control lever below the control stick
to correct. The model should fly straight with
the control stick at neutral. See page 24 if
additional adjustments are needed.

Elevator Trim

If the model always goes up or down, use the
trim control lever to the side of the control
stick to correct. The model should fly straight
with the control stick at neutral. See page 25
if additional adjustments are needed. The
Aerobird Challenger® should have a steady
shallow climb at full throttle.

Elevator Trim

Lever

Rudder Trim

Lever

Note: With the throttle stick set at low or
off (gliding), the plane will not turn as fast
as when the throttle is set on high.

Step 1

21

Throttle Adjustment

Full Throttle

Full Throttle

Approx. 50% Throttle

Reduced Throttle

1. Climb to an altitude of 100 feet or more
with full throttle.

2. To achieve a level "cruising" altitude,
reduce power by moving the throttle stick
down to approximately 50% of full on.

3. To reduce altitude, reduce throttle.

4. To increase altitude, increase throttle.

WATCH OUT! If you're flying with the
motor off or at a low speed, allow the
Aerobird 3™ a bit more area for turns.

Off Full

On

Throttle

Lever

Step 15

Using Elevator

The Aerobird 3™ is equipped with a third
channel for elevator (pitch) control. Pulling
back on the stick provides UP elevator that
allows for shorter takeoffs, better flares
for landing, a better climb rate and more
effective turns (see “Turning” on pages
19–20, Step 13). Trying to climb too quickly

will cause the airspeed to slow down and stall
the airplane. To avoid crashing from a stall,
always maintain enough altitude to recover
from it.

Just after a stall happens, the nose of the
plane will go down (looks like the plane is
diving). To recover from the stall, pull the stick
back slowly (UP elevator) once the nose of
the plane goes down and plane has built up
airspeed. Exit the stall to straight and level
flight. Be careful, since pulling the stick back
too abruptly or for too long will cause the
Aerobird 3 to enter another stall. Effectively
avoiding and recovering from stalls requires
experience. Always seek the help of an expe­rienced radio control pilot if you are not famil­iar or inexperienced with pitch control.

When using DOWN elevator (pushing stick
forward), make sure to always have enough
altitude to avoid crashing into the ground.
DOWN elevator is especially effective when
landing in small areas or over obstacles.

22

Landing

When you notice that the Aerobird 3™ no
longer climbs well under full power (normal­ly after approximately 10 to 15 minutes), the
battery is getting low, and it's time to land.
Line the model up, heading directly into the
wind toward the desired landing spot. At 10
feet of altitude, gradually reduce the throttle
stick to turn off the motor. The Aerobird 3
will glide in for a landing.

Auto Cut-Off Feature: When the flight
battery gets low enough, this feature will
automatically shut off the motor and save
enough battery power for the radio and tail
control so you can land safely. If the motor
cuts off, prepare to land imediately. If you
are gliding down and have some time to
rest the battery, you may re-arm the motor
by moving the throttle slider back to Off.
This may give you a little extra bit of power
to adjust your landing. Do not re-arm more
than once or twice, or you may lose your
control power.

Warning: Do not attempt to catch the
airplane or injury may result. Also, be sure
to turn motor off before you touch down
or damage can occur to your wing and
propeller. Remember to always land directly
into the wind.

Expert Tip: As you get more experienced
at flying, try adding a bit of UP elevator (pull
stick back) just before touchdown to ”flare”
the plane. With some practice, your land­ings will be expertly smooth and on target.

Reduce power at 10–20 feet

Step 16

23

Step 17

24

A. If the Aerobird 3™ keeps turning to the
left and adjusting the trim control lever
(page 20) does not correct enough to fly
straight with the stick at neutral:

1. Adjust the control linkage so that the left
tail flap is 1/16" above the rest of the tail
surface.

2. Test fly.

3. If it still flies to the left, repeat the above
procedure, adding 1/16" each time until
it flies straight.

B. If the Aerobird 3 keeps turning to the
right and adjusting the trim control lever
(page 20) does not correct enough to fly
straight with the stick at neutral:

1. Adjust the control linkage so that the
right tail flap is 1/16" above the rest of
the tail surface.

2. Test fly.

3. If it still flies to the right, repeat the
above procedure, adding 1/16" each
time until it flies straight.

IMPORTANT: If there is a bend (even a small one) in the tail or wing or a tear near the flap
areas, it is impossible to have correct flight control. Replace the damaged part immediately!

Making Adjustments—Plane Turns to the Left or Right

Step 18

25

Making Adjustments to the Climb Rate

A. If the Aerobird 3™ (with a fully charged

battery) does not climb fast enough
with full throttle, you can adjust the climb
rate by:

1. Tightening the front tail screw in one full
turn and loosening the rear tail screw one
full turn.

2. Test fly.

3. Repeat the above procedure if
necessary until the Aerobird 3 climbs
adequately under full power.

B. If the Aerobird 3 climbs too fast with full
throttle by climbing at a steep angle, stall­ing and keeps repeating climbing sharply
and stalling, do the following:

1. Loosen the front tail screw one full turn
and tighten the rear screw one full turn.

2. Test fly.

3. Repeat the above procedure if necessary
until your Aerobird 3 climbs at a steady
rate.

Screw In Screw Out

Note: Only use this option if you do not
have enough travel with the trim lever to
the left of the control stick or if you would
like to fine-tune the flight characteristics
with the trim levers and controls in the
neutral position.

Screw In

Screw Out

26

Aerobatic Flight

The Aerobird 3™ comes out of the box
with the controls set for beginning pilots.
Keeping the control lines further from the
control surfaces softens the Aerobird 3's
responsiveness and makes it easier to fly.
By adjusting the control linkages to holes
on the control horns that are closer to the
control surfaces, you will give the Aerobird
3 more control response for aerobatic
maneuvers like loops and tail slides (good
for experienced pilots).

After making any adjustments, always turn
on the transmitter and center the transmitter
trim levers, making sure the control surfaces
are adjusted evenly, and the surfaces move
in the proper directions before you fly (see
pages 10–11).

Note: By making the controls more respon­sive, the Aerobird 3 will also become less
forgiving, increasing your chances of
a crash. If you do not have prior experience
with a 3-channel or higher airplane, you
should seek the assistance of an experi­enced radio control pilot before you fly,
as crash damage is not covered by the
warranty.

Step 19

27

Aerobatic Flight (continued)

The Aerobird 3™ is capable of the following
aerobatics:

Loop: From a high altitude, push forward
on the stick to build up speed in a medium
dive (about 30˚ angle to ground), then
steadily pull back on the stick and hold it
until the aircraft goes over the top of the
loop. Exit the maneuver straight and level
by returning the stick to the neutral position
as the plane nears the bottom of the loop.

Tail Slide: Push forward on stick to build
up speed in a dive (about 30˚ angle with
ground), then pull back on stick and hold
until plane is heading up vertically. Using
slight inputs of elevator and rudder, keep
plane in vertical position until airspeed
bleeds off. Slide the throttle to the Off posi­tion. The plane will halt forward momentum
and then swivel to head nose first down.
This is the completion of the move.
Move the throttle slider to full-on and pull

Step 19

out to straight and level flight by adding
some UP elevator (pull back on stick).

Chandelle: Gradually add UP elevator (pull
stick back) until the plane is going vertical.
Once on a vertical heading, add right or
left rudder. Once the nose of the plane is
heading toward the ground, gradually
add UP elevator (pull stick back) to exit
the maneuver in straight and level flight.

28

Aerobatic Flight

For added visual effects in flight, the
Aerobird 3™ has chrome-colored wingtip
streamers that can be applied using the
included two sided sticky tape.

To learn about more aerobatic

maneuvers with the Aerobird 3 visit,

www.hobbyzonerc.com

The Aerobird 3 is equipped
with the exclusive X-Port™
feature, which will allow you
to add to the fun.

With the purchase of the Sonic Combat
Module™ (SCM) (HBZ4020), you can envi­sion yourself as a WWII pilot flying combat
missions in the South Pacific. The SCM
allows you to engage in aerial combat with
other X-port-equipped HobbyZone® air­craft. When you successfully "hit" the other
X-port equipped aircraft, you will disable
their motor for approximately 10 seconds,
allowing them use of tail controls only at
this time.

Air-to-air combat not yet your expertise?
You can still take part in air-to-ground
combat with the purchase of the Sonic
Combat Module and a Stealth Target
(HBZ4025). The SCM attached to your
aircraft allows you to fly in low and hit the
Stealth, causing a loud pitch tone to ensure
you of your "kill."

Step 19

29

Note: X-Port accessories are activated by
pressing the button on the top-left of the
transmitter.

The Aerial Drop Module™ (HBZ6023-sold
separately) will allow you to fly sorties,
scanning the necessary targets to drop the
included streamer bombs on. The ADM
attaches to your fuselage and allows you,
with the proper transmitter input, to drop
your bomb at precisely the correct moment.
A parachute jumper is also included, offer­ing the opportunity to practice dropping
your man "behind enemy lines." Create
your own games and challenges as well as
prove your skills to all!

For more information regarding these

HobbyZone accessories, as well as all

Hobby Zone products, please visit

www.hobbyzonerc.com.

30

HBZ6023 Aerial Drop Module (ADM)

Plug in the Aerial Drop Module and you
can drop streamer bombs or a parachute
jumper, which are included.

HBZ3520 White Wing, HBZ3530 White
Tail and HBZ3510 Night Flight Module

White wing (HBZ3520) and white tail
(HBZ3530) recommended for use with
Night Flight Module (HBZ3510). Each sold
separately.

HobbyZone® Accessories

HBZ1013 8.4V 1000mAh Ni-MH Battery

Purchase an extra battery pack so you can
stay in the air!

HBZ4020 Sonic Combat Module (SCM)

Plug in the Sonic Combat Module and take
on similarly equipped HobbyZone planes
in aerial combat. When “hit”, the SCM
temporarily disables your motor while
allowing you to steer.

31

Let the Dogfighting Begin

Have from 2–6 Aerobird 3 (or other X-Port™
equipped HobbyZone aircraft) flying on
different frequencies and engage in air
combat with the Sonic Combat Module

(SCM).

Aerobird 3™ Combat Options

32

1. If you happen to crash and part of the
foam wing or tail breaks, it can be
repaired using packing tape to cover
missing pieces.

2. If damage is severe or if wing or tail is
bent, replace damaged parts immediate­ ly. See page 39 for a complete replace­ ment parts list.

IMPORTANT: Control Alignment Tail flaps
must be level or nearly level with no slack
in the control lines or the plane will not fly
well. See pages 10–12 if adjustment is
necessary.

If a Crash Occurs

33

1. Read and follow this manual and included
video CD completely, observing all
instructions and safety directions.
Otherwise, serious injury and damage
can occur. Think safety first.

2. Keep propeller away from all body parts
at all times! Beware of loose clothing or
hair becoming entangled in the propeller.

3. Never fly when it is too windy or you may
lose control of the airplane. Never fly
near people, vehicles, train tracks, build­ings, power lines, water, hard surfaces
or trees, and never attempt to catch the
Aerobird 3

™

.

4. Adult supervision is recommended for
ages 12 and under.

5. Only use a battery charger intended for
use with the Aerobird 3 battery. We
recommend using the charger that comes
with your airplane. Never leave the char­ger unattended while charging! During
charging, place the battery and charger
on a heat-resistant surface. Do not place
them on carpet or upholstery.

6. Never cut into the battery charger or
airplane wires as serious injury can occur.
Causing the battery to short out (cross­ing negative and positive bare wires) can
cause a fire, serious injury and damage.

7. Hold the plane securely and keep all
body parts away from the propeller at all
times.

8. After you have finished flying, or at any
time you have the radio system on,
ALWAYS unplug the battery prior to turn­ing the transmitter off. ALWAYS turn on
the transmitter prior to plugging flight
battery in.

9. Never fly on the same frequency as
another RC vehicle in your area. Doing
so will cause you, or the other person, to
lose control of the plane.

Warnings and Safety Checklist

34

1. Don’t fly in winds over 7 mph! First-time
pilots should get help from an experienced
radio control pilot during first flights.

2. Choose your flying field carefully—grass
and soft ground with 600-foot diameter
is optimal to fly and will lengthen the life
of the Aerobird 3

™

.

3. Remember that holding the right stick
full over for too long can cause the
Aerobird 3 to spiral dive and crash. At
the very first sign of the Aerobird 3
beginning to spiral down, immediately
release the stick and give the opposite
turn control to the spiral, then pull back
on the elevator to level flight and level
the wings.

4. Don’t attempt to fly or do maneuvers
beyond your flying abilities without
seeking the assistance of an experienced
pilot.

Success Tips

5. If you’re gliding with the motor off, allow
the Aerobird 3 more area for turns.

6. Position yourself at your flying field to
keep the sun at your back and out of your
eyes. Wear sunglasses on bright days.

7. Keep the Aerobird 3 upwind, especially
on windy days, to prevent it from
“flying away”. The wind is normally
stronger at higher altitudes than it is on
the ground.

8. Keep your plane in front of you so you
don’t have to turn in circles as you fly.
Try to avoid flying directly overhead.

35

Unit does not operate 1. Transmitter "AA" batteries are depleted

or installed incorrectly indicated by a dim
or unlit LED on transmitter or the low
battery alarm

2. No electrical connection

3. Aerobird 3™ battery not charged

4. Crash has damaged the radio inside the
Aerobird 3

1. Check polarity installation or replace with
fresh "AA" batteries

2. Push connectors together until they "click"

3. Charge battery fully

4. Replace the fuselage

Aircraft keeps turning in

one direction

1. Tail flaps need adjustment

2. Wing is not centered over the fuselage

3. Stickers (decals) not stuck down.

1. Adjust stick trim lever (see page 20) or adjust
tail flap position (see page 24)

2. Center the wing before each flight

3. Properly rub down stickers or tape down

Aircraft is difficult to

control

1. Tail flaps aren't adjusted properly

2. Wing or tail is damaged

1. Adjust tail flaps (see pages 20, 24)

2. Repair or replace

Aircraft keeps pitching up

steeply

1. Tail incidence needs adjustment

2. Wind is too gusty or strong

1. Adjust tail screws (see page 25)

2. Postpone flying until wind is more calm

Aircraft won't climb 1. Battery isn't fully charged

2. Tail needs adjustment

1. Charge battery shortly before flying

2. Adjust tail screws (see page 25)
or trim lever (page 20)

Troubleshooting

PROBLEM

POSSIBLE CAUSE

SOLUTION

36

Warranty and Follow-Up Procedures

ranty and Follow-Up Procedures

Warranty Period:

Exclusive Warranty- Horizon Hobby, Inc.,
(Horizon) warranties that the Products
purchased (the "Product") will be free from
defects in materials and workmanship at the
date of purchase by the Purchaser.

Limited Warranty

(a) This warranty is limited to the original
Purchaser ("Purchaser") and is not
transferable. REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT
AS PROVIDED UNDER THIS WARRANTY
IS THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE
PURCHASER. This warranty covers only
those Products purchased from an autho­rized Horizon dealer. Third party transactions
are not covered by this warranty. Proof of
purchase is required for warranty claims.
Further, Horizon reserves the right to change
or modify this warranty without notice and
disclaims all other warranties, express or
implied.

(b) Limitations- HORIZON MAKES NO
WARRANTY OR REPRESENTATION,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, ABOUT NON­INFRINGEMENT, MERCHANTABILITY OR
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE
OF THE PRODUCT. THE PURCHASER
ACKNOWLEDGES THAT THEY ALONE
HAVE DETERMINED THAT THE PRODUCT
WILL SUITABLY MEET THE

REQUIREMENTS OF THE PURCHASER’S
INTENDED USE.

(c) Purchaser Remedy- Horizon's sole
obligation hereunder shall be that Horizon
will, at its option, (i) repair or (ii) replace,
any Product determined by Horizon to be
defective. In the event of a defect, these are
the Purchaser's exclusive remedies. Horizon
reserves the right to inspect any and all
equipment involved in a warranty claim.
Repair or replacement decisions are at the

37

sole discretion of Horizon. This warranty
does not cover cosmetic damage or damage
due to acts of God, accident, misuse, abuse,
negligence, commercial use, or modification
of or to any part of the Product. This warranty
does not cover damage due to improper
installation, operation, maintenance, or
attempted repair by anyone other than
Horizon. Return of any goods by Purchaser
must be approved in writing by Horizon
before shipment.

Damage Limits:

HORIZON SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR
SPECIAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES, LOSS OF PROFITS OR
PRODUCTION OR COMMERCIAL LOSS
IN ANY WAY CONNECTED WITH THE
PRODUCT, WHETHER SUCH CLAIM IS
BASED IN CONTRACT, WARRANTY,
NEGLIGENCE, OR STRICT LIABILITY. Further,
in no event shall the liability of Horizon
exceed the individual price of the Product
on which liability is asserted. As Horizon has
no control over use, setup, final assembly,
modification or misuse, no liability shall be

assumed nor accepted for any resulting
damage or injury. By the act of use, setup
or assembly, the user accepts all resulting
liability.

If you as the Purchaser or user are not
prepared to accept the liability associated
with the use of this Product, you are advised
to return this Product immediately in new and
unused condition to the place of purchase.

Law: These Terms are governed by Illinois
law (without regard to conflict of law
principals).

Safety Precautions:

This is a sophisticated hobby Product
and not a toy. It must be operated with
caution and common sense and requires
some basic mechanical ability. Failure to
operate this Product in a safe and respon­sible manner could result in injury or damage
to the Product or other property. This Product
is not intended for use by children without
direct adult supervision. The Product manual
contains instructions for safety, operation

38

and maintenance. It is essential to read and
follow all the instructions and warnings in the
manual, prior to assembly, setup or use, in
order to operate correctly and avoid damage
or injury.

Questions, Assistance, and Repairs:

Your local hobby store and/or place of
purchase cannot provide warranty support
or repair. Once assembly, setup or use of the
Product has been started, you must contact
Horizon directly. This will enable Horizon to
better answer your questions and service
you in the event that you may need any
assistance. For questions or assistance,
please direct your email to productsupport@
horizonhobby.com, or call 877.504.0233 toll
free to speak to a service technician.

Inspection or Repairs

If this Product needs to be inspected
or repaired, please call for a Return
Merchandise Authorization (RMA). Pack the

Product securely using a shipping carton.
Please note that original boxes may be
included, but are not designed to withstand
the rigors of shipping without additional
protection. Ship via a carrier that provides
tracking and insurance for lost or damaged
parcels, as Horizon is not responsible for
merchandise until it arrives and is accepted
at our facility. A Service Repair Request is
available at www.horizonhobby.com on the
"Support" tab. If you do not have internet
access, please include a letter with your
complete name, street address, email
address and phone number where you can
be reached during business days, your RMA
number, a list of the included items, method
of payment for any non-warranty expenses
and a brief summary of the problem. Your
original sales receipt must also be included
for warranty consideration. Be sure your
name, address, and RMA number are clearly
written on the outside of the shipping carton.

Warranty and Follow-Up Procedures (continued)

39

Warranty Inspection and Repairs

To receive warranty service, you must
include your original sales receipt verifying
the proof-of-purchase date. Provided
warranty conditions have been met, your
Product will be repaired or replaced free
of charge. Repair or replacement decisions
are at the sole discretion of Horizon Hobby.

Non-Warranty Repairs

Should your repair not be covered by war­ranty the repair will be completed and pay­ment will be required without notification or
estimate of the expense unless the expense
exceeds 50% of the retail purchase cost. By
submitting the item for repair you are agree­ing to payment of the repair without notifi­cation. Repair estimates are available upon
request. You must include this request with
your repair. Non-warranty repair estimates will
be billed a minimum of ½ hour of labor. In
addition you will be billed for return freight.
Please advise us of your preferred method of
payment. Horizon accepts money orders and
cashiers checks, as well as Visa, MasterCard,
American Express, and Discover cards. If you

choose to pay by credit card, please include
your credit card number and expiration date.
Any repair left unpaid or unclaimed after
90 days will be considered abandoned and
will be disposed of accordingly. Please note:
non-warranty repair is only available on
electronics and model engines.

Electronics and engines requiring inspection
or repair should be shipped to the following
address:

Horizon Service Center

4105 Fieldstone Road

Champaign, Illinois 61822

All other Products requiring warranty
inspection or repair should be shipped to
the following address:

Horizon Product Support

4105 Fieldstone Road

Champaign, Illinois 61822

Please call 877-504-0233 with any questions
or concerns regarding this product or
warranty.

0

PART# DESCRIPTION MSRP

HBZ1013 8.4V 1000mAh NiMH Battery $29.99
HBZ1026 DC Peak Charger $19.99
HBZ3602 Standard Decal Sheet: AB3 $3.99
HBZ3615 Instruction Manual: AB3 $0.99
HBZ3616 Instruction Video CD: AB3 $3.99
HBZ3617 Canopy Cover w/Latch $2.49
HBZ3641 AB3 Fuselage: CH 1, 26.995 $49.99
HBZ3642 AB3 Fuselage: CH 2, 27.045 $49.99
HBZ3643 AB3 Fuselage: CH 3, 27.095 $49.99
HBZ3644 AB3 Fuselage: CH 4, 27.145 $49.99
HBZ3645 AB3 Fuselage: CH 5, 27.195 $49.99
HBZ3646 AB3 Fuselage: CH 6, 27.255 $49.99
HBZ7271 AB3 TX: CH 1, 26.995 $32.99
HBZ7272 AB3 TX: CH 2, 27.045 $32.99
HBZ7273 AB3 TX: CH 3, 27.095 $32.99
HBZ7274 AB3 TX: CH 4, 27.145 $32.99
HBZ7275 AB3 TX: CH 5, 27.195 $32.99
HBZ7276 AB3 TX: CH 6, 27.255 $32.99
HBZ1047 1.5" Tailboom Repair Section $0.49
HBZ1058 TX Antenna $4.99
HBZ2004 Propeller $2.99
HBZ2014 Canopy Cover w/Latch $2.49
HBZ2016 Landing Gear w/Wheels $3.99
HBZ2017 Tail Gear w/Wheel $1.49

Keep the Aerobird 3

™

in the air! Spare parts are available from your local dealer or from
Horizon Hobby. (www.horizonhobby.com) Please check with your dealer first—by supporting
your local dealer, they’ll be there when you need them.

PART# DESCRIPTION MSRP

HBZ4629 Tail Horn and Keeper (2) $0.89
HBZ2037 Main Wheel Axle Caps (4) $0.99
HBZ6022 Orange Standard Wing AB, ABC $14.99
HBZ6034 Orange Tail w/Accessories: ABC, AB3 $9.99
HBZ6024 2 Wing Hold Down Rods w/Caps $1.49
HBZ6026 Orange Rubber Bands (7) $0.99
HBZ7239 Tail V-Brace: Swift, ABS $1.49
HBZ6033 Orange Tail Screws (2) $0.99
HBZ6057 TX Battery Cover $2.49

Optional Accessories

HBZ3510 Night Flight Module $19.99
HBZ3520 White Wing ABC, AB3 $14.99
HBZ3530 White Tail: ABC, AB3 $9.99
HBZ4020 Sonic Combat Module $23.99
HBZ6023 Aerial Drop Module $19.99

Replacement Parts and Optional Parts

HobbyZone® products are distributed exclusively by
Horizon Hobby, Inc.
4105 Fieldstone Road
Champaign, IL 61822
©2007 Horizon Hobby, Inc.

www.hobbyzonerc.com

10056

HBZ3615

The Place to Start

™