How to Fly RC Helicopters

Those looking to learn to fly RC (radio-controlled) helicopters should be prepared to undergo a learning curve. While the techniques involved can be mastered with a little practice, novice RC helicopter users should be aware of the fact that helicopters are considered by many enthusiasts to be the most difficult RC vehicle to gain command over.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Control kit
• Assembled RC helicopter

Learn to Fly a Radio-Controlled Helicopter

1. Read the instruction booklet that comes with your RC helicopter. Make sure you have at least a basic working understanding of the constituent parts and mechanisms that drive your RC helicopter. This will only help make learning to fly one easier.

2. Make sure that there are no loose screws on your RC helicopter before you try to fly it. Loose screws can result in important parts flying off as you attempt to make the helicopter airborne, and can lead to significant damage to your RC helicopter.

3. Have your RC helicopter unit checked over by someone with advanced expertise before you fly it. He or she will be able to spot any assembly flaws that might prevent proper flight or cause damage to your helicopter.

4. Familiarize yourself with the different functions of the control panel before you attempt to fly. Most RC helicopters' control units have the same controls that are found in real helicopters, and can be quite complex in nature. The instruction manual included with your unit will walk you through the details.

5. Master the skill of hovering before you attempt any other moves with your RC helicopter. This skill alone can take many attempts to master, and it is the most basic and necessary function you will need control of as you develop in skill.

6. Move on to more advanced techniques, such as turns and dips, when you are comfortable with your ability to hover. Expect that you will crash your RC helicopter frequently as you learn to fly it. It is best to learn to fly it over a grassy area that can absorb the shock of a crash and may minimize and prevent damage to your helicopter.

7. Practice, practice, practice. Eventually, the skills you need to successfully fly an RC helicopter will become a matter of course.

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared to cover the repair costs of the crashes that are very likely to result as you learn to fly RC helicopters.

• Never fly an RC helicopter indoors. This not only prevents potential damage to the RC helicopter as well as the house, but also stops the collection of dangerous fumes that can collect in unventilated indoor spaces.

• Avoid contact with spinning blades at all times. The blades rotate quickly enough to cause serious injury.