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Flight Training
Flight Simulators
A model helicopter simulator is highly recommended and is an excellent training aid. Simulators like the CSM V10 will help you learn the orientation and
inputs needed to fly a model helicopter, without the risk of damaging your model to learn these same reactions. In general, most beginning pilots find that using
an RC simulator prior to their first actual flights with their model increase the speed in which they learn, and also decrease the number of crashes associated
with learning to fly. Even the most experienced Heli pilots continue to practice with a flight simulator to learn new maneuvers and stick inputs prior to trying
these maneuvers with their actual models.
Training Gear
Before you commence, it is also highly recommended that you first purchase and install helicopter flight training gear to your Venture to prevent accidental
prior to tracking the blades, or attempting to fly the model.
Experienced Help
It is also highly recommended if possible that you seek help from an experienced RC helicopter pilot prior to your first flights. Contact your local hobby shop
for more information on clubs and pilots in your area.
Where to Fly
It is recommended that for your first flights, you locate a large smooth parking lot or paved surface that is in a private setting. The training gear will allow the
model to slide smoothly on a flat hard surface, which will reduce the risk of tipovers while learning. A smooth grass surface will also work if it is not possible to
locate a large parking lot, however the training gear will have a tendency to catch in the grass which increases the possibility of a tip over.
When to Fly
For your first flights, it is recommended that you chose a day with calm or no wind as the model will be much easier to control without the additional wind
factor. Generally, you will want to pick a day where the wind is below
5 mph if possible for the best results. Please also note that the model should always be positioned nose into the wind for the best results.
Basic Hover Training Practices
Once you have properly tracked the main rotor blades and have tuned the engine as needed, it is now time to move on to the initial flight training practices
listed below.
Ground Skating
The first step towards learning to fly is ground skating. The model should be positioned nose into the wind, and the pilots should be located approx-imately
15-20 feet behind the model, and slightly to the left or right. The tail of the model should always face towards the pilot during these initial flight practices. To start
ground skating, simply increase the throttle slowly until the model starts to become light in the training skids. Next, move the cyclic stick forward slightly; the
model should slide forward. Begin to skate the model slowly to the left, right, forward and backwards gently until you become familiar with the stick inputs.
Once you have become comfortable with this, you can also practice rotating the model to the left and right using the rudder stick. Be careful when doing this; if
the model rotates the nose towards you, the cyclic controls will be reversed.
Short Stationary Hovering
Once you have become comfortable with grounds skating, your next step is to try to perform a short stationary hover. To do this, increase the throttle slowly
until the model starts to lift from the ground. When the model is 1 foot from the ground, gently reduce the throttle so that the model will settle back down gently.
Continue this procedure, and try to increase the time that the model remains airborne.It is important that you keep the model within 3 feet of the ground while
performing this exercise, as this will prevent an accidental tip over.
Long Stationary Hovering
Once you have become comfortable with the short stationary hover, the next step is to try to increase the length of time that you are able to keep the model in
stationary hover. Continue to practice this exercise until you are able to keep the model in a stationary hover for a full tank of fuel.
Traveling Hover
Once you have become comfortable with the long stationary hover, the next step is to try to perform a traveling hover. To do this, lift the model into a
stationary hover approximately 1 foot from the ground. Next, move the cyclic stick forward gently, the model will start moving forward. Once the model has
traveled 10–15 feet, gently pull back on the cyclic stick until the model returns to stationary hover. Next, gently move the cyclic stick backwards until the model
returns to its original position in stationary hover. Repeat this exercise for left and right cyclic as well.
Once you have completed these exercises, you are well on your way to learning to Hover. Please seek advise from an experienced heli pilot in your area on
flight progression from this stage forward.
ADVICE AND BASIC HOVER TRAINING PRACTICES
