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Helicopters have come a long way recently, thanks to:
- a relative reduction in prices
- an improvement in quality and reliability
- improved stability thanks to improved gyros (electronic devices on board the helicopter to maintain stability by providing input into the servos if the craft starts to move in a direction that the pilot has not told it to) and
- increased ease of flying, thanks to improved computer radios.
- increased ease of learning, thanks to computer flight simulation programs.
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Approximate cost of first Helicopter and gear - from around A$xxx for the basics plus club fees.
A full table of ITEMS REQUIRED and APPROXIMATE PRICES
are contained in the ADVANCED ARTICLES on this topic.
See link at the top or bottom of this page
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A FEW NOTES
Some helicopter pilots are very enthusiastic about this sort of flying, but remarkable number of others spend a large amount of money and then lose interest.
They require a multi-channel radio, almost always a computer radio with plenty of functionality.
They are expensive to buy, can be expensive when crashed and may not be easy to learn on.
First learning the basics of flight on a model described in the advanced article may be to your advantage.
Consider purchasing a helicopter simulator to help you up the long learning curve as it costs nothing if you crash in a simulator(!)
PROVIDING you have an experienced mentor to assist you, there can be some good second hand units to be purchased from others who no longer require them - (but there are also some duds).
SAFETY, FLYING LOCATIONS and INSURANCE
As with all flying, safety is paramount.
Spinning blades can be very dangerous.
Although it may be perceived that helicopters can be flown in confined spaces, they must still be flown away from onlookers, passers-by, cars and animals.
Your are not permitted to fly at some parks and most school grounds. Flying them at home may find you with unneighbours and the council on your back.
Join a club to get the all-important Insurance.
Remember that insurance claims will only be paid if you are flying where your insurance cover allows.
FURTHER INFO ON THIS TYPE OF FLYING:
Speak to other fliers on their experiences and recommendations
Visit your specialist helicopter supplier
Read the magazines and the web.
Advanced article on INTERNAL COMBUSTION POWERED HELICOPTERS
Advanced article on ELECTRIC POWERED HELICOPTERS |
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