So, you know that you want to learn to fly radio controlled helicopters - where should you start?  Well, here is my step-by-step guide to getting into this exciting sport...

1.  Research
You need to decide what model you want to buy and there are several ways to do this.  You could read the magazines (e.g. Model Helicopter World or Rotorworld) and see what advice they have to offer.  You could join a club and discuss your choice of model with existing experienced members.  Or you could rely on the advice of your local dealer who will be in a good position to know what will best suit your budget and ambitions.  For example, do you want a scale model of a full-size helicopter or a sport machine for 3D competition flying?  You will also need to decide on all the other bits of equipment (see 'Recommended Equipment').

2.  Join the British Model Flying Association (BMFA)
The BMFA does a great deal for its members (details) but top of the list is INSURANCE!  If your helicopter causes damage to a third party, you will almost certainly be liable and this could attract astronomical compensation claims.  This is why we will not give outdoor lessons to anyone who is not covered by BMFA insurance.  The BMFA insurance covers you for up to £5M worth of third party liability and £10K personal accident indemnity (including workshop accidents).  Joining only costs a few pounds and it is well worth it.  Click here to learn how to join the BMFA.

3.  Try Before You Buy
If you are going to learn to fly radio controlled helicopters, you will find it a lot easier if you buy some sort of training device, e.g. a computer simulator or an indoor model such as the Hirobo XRB.  If you wish, we can teach you to fly an indoor model in your own home.

4.  Buy & Build!
Once you have made your decision to go ahead you will need to buy all the equipment and assemble your helicopter.  If you decide to buy an ARTF (Almost Ready to Fly) machine this will be a relatively straightforward affair.  If you are building from a basic kit, make absolutely sure that you assemble it correctly and according the instructions.  If in doubt about any aspect of the assembly, just ask your dealer who should be happy to put you on the right track.  Above all, think SAFETY!  Some tips include:

• Since all R/C models are subject to in-flight vibration, landing knocks, transport damage etc. be sure that receivers and batteries are well protected, servos are fixed securely, control linkages (pushrods, snakes, etc.) are robust enough for their purpose, are properly supported where necessary, are as slop free as possible and that all control levers are fitted correctly.
  
  

• Make sure that all nuts and bolts are tightened correctly.  If a thread strips - or you suspect it might have stripped - replace it.  Nearly all parts for modern R/C helicopters are available as spares and it just isn't worth taking the risk of a failure.
  
  

• Make sure that the correct thread-locking compound is used where required.
  
  

• Check that the control movements are correct, e.g. that when you apply left rudder the tail is pushed to the right.

Remember - saving time at the assembly stage by taking shortcuts may mean spending much more time re-building your helicopter after a crash!

5.  Get it Checked
Once you feel that the model is complete and ready to go, ask an experienced pilot to check it over for you before starting it.  We can check your model for you if you wish (as part of a training session) or you could ask your local dealer to do this for you.  Some dealers, like Mick Charles Models in Surrey, offer this as a free service if you have bought the kit from them.

Getting the model checked is important because, for example, if the model is accidentally set with the throttle reversed, starting it could easily cause severe damage to the machine not to mention the possibility of personal injury.  Always think SAFETY!

6.  Tuition
When you are starting to learn to fly it is reassuring and advisable to have an experienced pilot with you who can put you on the right track and prevent you making any basic mistakes.  This is where we can help you and after an hour or two of tuition, and some practice on your own, you will gain the confidence to lift the machine into a hover with ease.  We can design our training to meet your needs and can help you to progress from one stage to another, usually in line with the IRCHA achievement levels (see Training Levels) and the BMFA Achievement Scheme.

7.  Practise, Practise, Practise!
Unfortunately, the only way to improve your flying skills is to practise.  The tremendous depth to this sport means that once you have managed to master a particular manoeuvre, you will be looking to master the next.  If you look at the IRCHA Proficiency Levels, you will see that only six pilots in the world (at the time of writing) are registered as having achieved the top rank at Level VII!  One thing is for certain, you won't run out of things to learn!

8. Backup
If you require further assistance, and your dealer is unable to help, we are only a phone call away.  For technical assistance, please refer to the section on Engineering Services.

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