Basic Flying Skills
- Remote Controller Functions
The remote controller (RC) is the main device used to operate the drone. It includes:
- Left joystick: Controls altitude (up/down) and rotation (yaw).
- Right joystick: Controls forward/backward and left/right movement.
- Mode switches: For changing between manual and GPS/auto modes.
- RTH (Return-to-Home) button: Automatically brings the drone back.
- Display/mobile screen: Shows battery levels, GPS strength, flight mode, and camera view.
Understanding these controls is essential for safe and accurate flying.
- Manual Flying: Take-off, Landing, Hovering
Manual flying builds basic pilot skills.
- Take-off:
Smoothly raise the drone to a safe height while maintaining balance. - Hovering:
Keeping the drone steady in one position without drifting. This helps improve control. - Landing:
Slowly bring the drone down while ensuring the landing area is clear and stable.
These skills ensure the operator can control the drone even without automation.
- Autonomous Flying: GPS & Waypoint Navigation
Agricultural drones often fly autonomously:
- GPS Mode:
The drone uses satellite signals for stable position holding. - Waypoint Navigation:
The operator sets points on a map in the flight app.
The drone then follows the path automatically for spraying or mapping.
Autonomous flying helps achieve uniform coverage and saves time in large fields.
- Return-to-Home (RTH) Mode
RTH is a built-in safety function.
- When activated, the drone automatically returns to its take-off point.
- Triggers include:
- Low battery
- Signal loss
- Manual RTH button press
- The drone climbs to a safe altitude and flies back avoiding obstacles.
RTH protects the drone from crashes or getting lost.
- Emergency Flight Handling
In emergency situations, the operator must respond quickly:
- Loss of GPS: Switch to manual mode and stabilize the drone.
- Low battery warning: Immediately land the drone in a safe location.
- Strong wind or drift: Reduce altitude and regain control.
- Obstacle detection alerts: Slow down or change direction immediately.
- Propeller or motor issue: Perform controlled emergency landing.
Good emergency skills prevent accidents and equipment damage.
