Hobbies And Interests
Start Small
Getting into remote control helicopters can be an expensive hobby with a steep learning curve. As hobbyists learn how to fly their vehicles, every crash costs money. But a wide range of small, inexpensive, indoor electric RC helicopters are now available that provide a great way to learn how to fly. Beginning with one of these ready-to-fly toys can save a lot of money as you learn to fly without causing expensive repairs each time you crash.
Aligning
As you upgrade to larger models of RC helicopter, one of the first and most important jobs is ensuring it's aligned. This refers to a regular adjustment that is made between the controller and the helicopter's motors, to ensure it responds accurately. To align it, hover the helicopter around two feet off the ground inside, where the air is still. Adjust the "trim" controls on the joysticks, so the helicopter remains stationary when no controls are being pressed. Failure to properly align the vehicle can cause difficulties in taking off, landing, and controlling the helicopter during flight.
Sliding
Sliding is an established method of learning to accurately control an RC helicopter. It involves moving the vehicle around while still on the floor, thus gaining confidence with the controls without the danger of crashing. Spin the helicopter up so it becomes light on its skids, but don't fully lift it off the ground. Practice moving the helicopter left, right, forward and backward on the ground, while adjusting the throttle to increase or decrease its responsiveness.
Hovering
Hovering is an important skill when learning to fly an RC helicopter. It requires the pilot to make constant, small, controlled corrections to the vehicle to keep it steady and stable. Practice hovering by making the helicopter "hop" around from the ground. Bring the throttle up until the helicopter leaves the ground by a few inches, keep it steady for as long as possible, and then drop it carefully back down onto the floor. Gradually increase the height of the hops until you can confidently hover the helicopter.
Stopping
Stopping an RC helicopter isn't the same as stopping an RC car. When an RC helicopter is moved forward, it keeps going in that direction until told otherwise. Pulling back quickly on the throttle won't cause the helicopter to stop and hover, but will bring it crashing down onto its skids. Essentially, the helicopter has no brakes, so learning to throttle back carefully and in a controlled manner can save a lot of money from heavy landing damage.