How to Fly RC Helis
Flying a remote control helicopter isn't kids' play--many teenagers and adults find it challenging to keep one in the air. There are five keys to success for beginners: Ask for advice from people with experience; get really comfortable with one skill before you advance to another; and practice, practice, practice. At times, you'll still get frustrated--especially when you crash--but that will make your eventual success all the sweeter.
Instructions
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Buy a helicopter with four channels. One channel controls up and down movement, one controls turns, one is for right and left movement and the last one is for forward and back movement. You can find helis that are simpler and cheaper--or fancier and pricier--but starting with four channels is usually recommended to build a good foundation.
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2
Find someone with experience who can serve as your guide. Ask the staff at your local hobby shop to recommend people who might be willing to go out with you and share basic tips. Nothing beats hands-on learning with a pro. You also can go online to ask questions and get tips from more experienced folks. Join a forum, or email your questions to a virtual mentor. See Resources below.
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3
Spend time learning each step. If you rush through one skill to tackle the next, you won't get good at either one. Master the throttle first--that's the channel that moves the helicopter up and down. Go on to the cyclic channels for moving in different directions, and then get to work on the yaw for making flat turns.
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Read all the instructions carefully. Switch on your radio, and plug in your battery in that order. Wait 10 to 15 seconds before starting to fly.
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5
Using the throttle, raise the helicopter at least 3 feet off the ground to hover. If you hover lower, you'll experience more turbulence and instability. Practice hovering until you're good at it and then proceed to moving the helicopter around with the other channels.
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Tips & Warnings
Practice flying your helicopter in a wide-open area. You won't hit a passerby, and you run less chance of crashing into a tree or other stationary object.
