Hi there, and starting of with a question regarding atmospheric flight

[Kamperfoelie]

Hi, just bought the game a few days ago after seeying amazing lets play video's. Am truly impressed with the scope and potential of this game.

One thing that bothers me is this: I have really much trouble handling atmospheric flight. Even if I copy really simple jet plane design (two tanks, a tailfin, delta wings, canards, and the control thingy, Sas? And of course landing gear and engine), after takeoff, I have really much trouble handling the plane. I mostly tried flying with keyboard, and even tried joystick, but even on fine controls, and when the plane is inherently pretty stable, controlling the plane is diabollicly hard. If I look at videos from other people, the seem to handle their planes pretty good, rolling with ease, landing smoothly.

Is it just me or is there something else to it?

I played more than a few flight sims in my days, and handling a plane in a game is normally not completely impossible for me, but this game is putting me really to the test. Does somebody has some thoughts or advice?

Thanks in advance.

[Vanamonde]

The game's current aerodynamics system is a placeholder with many flaws and weirdnesses, and while it is possible to build stable planes, it's rather difficult. One thing that helps enormously is including the "avionics" guidance piece. It's made especially for aircraft, and is a sort of fly by wire assist that helps smooth maneuvers and hold heading/altitude. It does need to be turned on with the T key to call upon SAS mode, though. If you would like some examples, these http://forum.kerbalspaceprogram.com/showthread.php/25413-Trainer-and-Example-Aircraft-for-Newbie-Pilots are my two best airplanes.

[sal_vager]

Welcome to the community Kamperfoelie

The only real tips for aircraft I have are these, keep the center of mass in front of the center of lift, and make sure the intakes are near the back so their drag stabilises you

[Capt'n Skunky]

Happy Launching!

Arrr!

Capt'n Skunky

KSP Community Manager

[Kamperfoelie]

Thanks for the tips! Intakes near the back, sounds like a good tip! Never would have thought of that, but sounds utterly logical the drag will be of use there.