RC Helicopter Flying Tips For Beginners

RC helicopters are often seen as a great gateway to more complicated drones because they tend to have simpler shapes, fewer channels on the transmitter to deal wth and a more robust body that can handle all the bumps and crashes that may happen.

This does not mean that flying these helicopters is a piece of cake, however, because there is still a lot to learn and some of the controls can be pretty difficult to master.

There are quite a few steps that new owners need to consider when learning how to fly these models and some crucial considerations about safety, attitude and the capabilities of the helicopter.

🚁Find A Safe Place To Practice

The first tip to consider does not concern the helicopter itself but rather your location that you use to practice flying. It pays to be responsible and conscientious from the very first flight and taking safety into account each and every time you fly.

To begin with, find somewhere where you can practice flying in a safe, controlled manner. If you have an indoor helicopter, then this means finding a room with enough open space and no ceiling fans or children to collide with.

If you are outdoors, beware of other people, power lines, and other obstacles. Always be aware of where the helicopter is, where it is going and the surroundings.

🚁Don’t Run Before You Can Walk

It can be easy to get a little carried away when first unboxing a new helicopter, especially one that is in ready-to-fly condition. Think of learning to fly a helicopter or helicopter in much the same way as you would learning to ride a bike.

It is all about small goals and small steps to see gradual progress. You don’t want to take the stabilizers off a bike to early while you are still figuring out your balance, and you don’t want to take off too much and fly too far before you have mastered the controls to return the UAV safely. Be patient with the machine and yourself and the rewards will come to you quicker.

🚁Hold Off On The “Tricks” For A Little While And Master The Basics

A smooth landing can be just as impressive as a loop or barrel roll. Aerial tricks may impress your friends, but real hobbyists will be more impressed if you show the skill and steady hand to control a smooth take-off and landing or a perfect, level turn.

These are the fundamentals of helicopter flying, and it is worth practicing these basics if you want to progress with flashier models and quadcopters with video cameras.

A simple three channel transmitter should be the ideal starting point, so there are not too many distractions or mistakes to make, and you can progress to 4 channels or more at a later date.

🚁Learn The Controls By Heart Before Flying

On thing to note that it is important that you fully understand all the controls and functions that the device is capable of before getting it up in the air. To start with, this means learning the basics of the joysticks and getting accustomed to their sensitivity.

As you progress, you can figure out the other features. Remember that each model has its controls, and some transmitters are more complicated than others. Some makers like to work with familiar touchscreen controls via a mobile device while others are more traditional and may have various channels.

Also, remember that less is more with these controls and that some models are quite sensitive. A jolt on the stick could send the chopper out of control. Again, it is all about patience and practice.

🚁Be Aware Of What Your Chosen Helicopter Flying Limits Are

You must be aware of the abilities and limitations of the model you have chosen. It pays to read the owners manual and other user reviews of the helicopter you are buying or have bought because you can get a much better understanding of what it can do before you get it up in the air.

You don’t want to misunderstand the range and the helicopter accidentally fly beyond its capabilities. You don’t want to end up trying out an epic flight across the park, only to have it descend out of view because the battery isn’t as strong as you expected.

Check the battery type, charging time and buyers’ experiences in different conditions. Don’t purchase an indoor model in the hope of taking it outside because you may see it blown sideways in a gust of wind.

🚁Be prepared for emergencies

Even the most experienced pilots can run into problems when flying a remote control aircraft. It's important to be prepared for emergencies, such as a loss of signal or a malfunctioning motor. Always keep a spare battery and spare parts on hand, and make sure you know how to safely land your aircraft in case of an emergency.

In conclusion, flying a remote control aircraft can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it's important to take the time to learn the basics and follow the rules. By choosing the right aircraft, practicing in a safe area, and being prepared for emergencies, you can enjoy the thrill of flying without putting yourself or others at risk.