The latest radio controlled helicopters

Flying High

With modern hobbies increasingly related to staying indoors, flying remote controlled helicopters offers a fun way to get out of the house whilst satisfying a need for modern gadgetry. The bonus is that with recent developments in technology, many of the helicopters are also suitable for indoor use - ideal for British weather.

There is a wide range of helicopters in the market, with easy to fly versions for beginners right through to more complex multi-channel models for seasoned flyers. Whilst there are many variants available (including miniature helicopters), the three most common types are 3 Channel (beginner), 4 Channel (intermediate) and 6 Channel (expert).

3 Channel helicopters are perfect for novices, with simple to learn controls but without compromising on manoeuvrability. It is possible to buy 2 Channel helicopters but these often have fewer features and can be more volatile in the air. One of the latest 3 Channel models is the Syma S-001, the first indoor helicopter that Syma have produced. The S-001 is a ready to fly (RTF) model with all necessary accessories included in the pack. Very stable in the air, the 3 channel controls allow up, down, left, right, backwards and forwards movement and has gained good marks from reviewers.

The latest 4 Channel model from Flight Club is the Metal Series infra-red, co-axial helicopter. This model is particularly durable with known stress points made from metal. With LED lights, built in Gyro and electronic speed controller and the option of recharging via USB, this model will satisfy intermediate enthusiasts whilst also suiting those on a budget. For those with a bit more money to spend, the E-Sky Tandem 2.4G is now available in the market. Small and light but with two sets of co-axial motors, very stable with sensitive controls, it is also RTF with no assembly or installation required.

6 Channel models are much more challenging to fly and would undoubtedly prove very difficult for a beginner to control, without any prior experience. It is recommended that any novice first masters the basics on a 2, 3 or possibly 4 channel helicopter before attempting a 6 channel. A new model from a manufacturer with good credentials is the E-Sky Honeybee CP3. This model comes with a Li-Po battery which allows the flyer longer times (up to 10 minutes). The collective pitch rotor head and stiff blades permit outdoors flying, even in moderate conditions. This model can even be flown upside down - should you wish! Coming complete with 3-in-1 controller, transmitter, battery and charger, no additional accessories are necessary to start flying.

There are a number of accessories that can be purchased for the helicopters, ranging from cosmetic additions to upgrade on factory-fitted parts. Many flyers agree that, with the increasingly diverse manoeuvring possibilities now possible, it would be useful if universal radio controls were available, such as is currently the case with home appliances. If this were the case guide to buying universal remote controls could be made available for flyers which would undoubtedly help those who are new to the hobby.