Chapter 16 · Flying
Crash for free
In the simulator, a crash is fixed by pressing a button. It’s the cheapest, fastest way to build the muscle memory for flying acro.
The main ones
| Simulator | Strong point | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Liftoff | Step-by-step tutorials, lots of content and a big community | Getting started |
| Velocidrone | Very realistic racing physics and runs on a modest computer | Racing and modest computers |
| Uncrashed | Stunning graphics and maps designed for freestyle | Creative freestyle |
| Tryp FPV | Huge open maps; needs a powerful computer | Cinematic flying |
| FPV SkyDive | Free and with multiplayer mode | Trying it without spending |
| Liftoff: Micro Drones | Simulates how tiny whoops behave | Indoor practice |
Most cost less than €20 and are often on sale. Check the current price in the store.
Want to try it right now? The fpv.cat browser simulator lets you do the first exercises without installing anything, using your radio over USB, the keyboard or your phone. It’s a field to get started; for the real hours, use one of the simulators on this page.
Set it up properly
Radio
Connect it over USB as a joystick. Create a new model with the radio module turned off and calibrate the sticks in the simulator.
Graphics
Lower the quality until you get a high frame rate. Smoothness matters much more than looks.
Rates
The same ones you’ll use on the real drone, so what you learn carries over directly.
Camera
Field of view of 90° or more, similar to an FPV camera. Pick an angle and stick with it.
Training plan
Open map
Arm, disarm, take off and land smoothly.
Forward flight
At a constant height. Big, slow circles.
Precision
Figure eights, tight turns and flying under objects.
First tricks
Rolls, flips and split-S, always nice and high.
Gates
Tracks, slowly at first and then faster.
Freestyle lines
Chain tricks together using the terrain.
At least 10 hours before your first real flight. If the simulator still makes you sweat, the real drone will too.