MIA Phantom (2008)

Considered 'last' of the MIA range of helicopters though in many respects only a fuselage replacement as most of the mechanics were still utilised from the donor helicopter.

The Walkera 52# was considered a smooth running helicopter with good control (a little too good for learners) but like most Walkera models was functional but not really 'good' looking; after all the were mass produced and at a low price.  Because of this last requirement they had a number of weaknesses, the aluminium frame was very thin and bent easily allowing the gear mesh to go out of alignment and 'chew' the teeth. The landing gear was fragile and would break easily on an 'arrival', similarly for the low mounted tail boom.

Frame assembly   Optional canopies

MIA designed a completely new frame with a more solid interlocking structure thereby ensuring minimal flexing so that gear mesh was retained.  The motor fitment was also improved so that a variety of motors could be fitted including the larger 180 brushed motor (130 standard size).  The landing gear was the standard MIA TUFF bolt on and the tail boom was raised and improved so as to provide a very high level of crash 'resistance'. The battery was also repositioned to give a tidier layout as the original Walkera position hung out 'in the breeze' and gave the appearance of an afterthought rather than an integral part of the design.

Original Walkera 52#   Phantom upgrade (with MIA canopy)

As can be seen , after conversion it no longer looks like a collection of 'odd' parts glued together, but something fully design integrated.