Introduction

First Person View (FPV) drone piloting offers an unparalleled immersive experience, placing the operator directly into the cockpit of their drone through a live video feed. Beyond recreational flight, advanced FPV skills are now critical for a rapidly expanding range of professional applications, including cinematic videography (drones), industrial inspection in confined spaces, competitive drone racing, and dynamic aerial maneuvers for specialized tasks. Unlike traditional line-of-sight operations, FPV piloting demands exceptional spatial awareness, lightning-fast reflexes, precise control inputs, and a deep understanding of flight dynamics to navigate complex three-dimensional environments with high speed and agility. Mastering these intricate skills is essential for pushing the boundaries of aerial performance and achieving fluid, dynamic drone control. This essential training course focuses on Advanced FPV (First Person View) Piloting & Racing, equipping enthusiasts and professionals with the expertise to excel in the exhilarating world of high-performance FPV drone flight.

This intensive training course provides a comprehensive and hands-on journey into the art and science of advanced FPV drone piloting. Participants will gain in-depth knowledge of FPV drone components, build techniques, and essential tuning parameters for optimal performance. We will delve into sophisticated flight maneuvers, advanced racing lines, and techniques for navigating complex obstacles with precision. The course emphasizes practical flight sessions, utilizing FPV simulators for skill development and progressing to real-world drone operations, including racing drills and freestyle techniques. By mastering the intricate control inputs, system optimization, and spatial reasoning required for advanced FPV flying, you will be prepared to dominate the race track, capture breathtaking cinematic shots, or execute highly agile maneuvers for demanding professional applications, experiencing the ultimate freedom of flight.

Target Audience

• Experienced Drone Pilots seeking FPV Skills
• Aspiring FPV Drone Racers
• Cinematic FPV Drone Operators
• Hobbyists looking to advance their FPV skills
• Custom Drone Builders
• Robotics Enthusiasts interested in Agile Flight
• UAS Developers for Performance Applications
• Content Creators wanting Dynamic Aerial Shots

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamental components and differences of FPV drone systems.
• Learn the basics of building and maintaining custom FPV drones.
• Master advanced FPV flight controls and maneuvers (e.g., rolls, flips, power loops).
• Develop effective FPV racing lines and strategies for competitive advantage.
• Optimize FPV drone tuning parameters for specific flight characteristics.
• Understand the principles of FPV video transmission and antenna optimization.
• Utilize FPV flight simulators for rapid skill development and practice.
• Implement troubleshooting techniques for FPV drone issues (builds, components, flight).
• Explore applications of advanced FPV piloting beyond racing (e.g., cinematic, industrial).
• Understand safety protocols and best practices for high-performance FPV flight.
• Develop a personalized FPV flight progression plan for continuous skill improvement.

DURATION

10 Days

COURSE CONTENT

Module 1: Introduction to FPV Drones and Ecosystem

• What is FPV and how it differs from line-of-sight flight.
• Overview of FPV drone components: frame, motors, ESCs, flight controller, VTX, camera, receiver.
• Types of FPV drones: racing, freestyle, cinematic, long-range.
• Essential FPV gear: goggles, radio transmitter, batteries, chargers.
• The FPV community and culture.

Module 2: FPV Drone Build & Setup Essentials

• Step-by-step guide to assembling a basic FPV drone frame.
• Soldering techniques for FPV drone components.
• Flight controller wiring and configuration (e.g., Betaflight, Kiss, ArduCopter for FPV).
• Motor mounting and propeller selection.
• Basic pre-flight checks and safety measures for self-built drones.

Module 3: FPV Flight Controller Tuning

• Understanding PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) control for FPV drones.
• Basic PID tuning concepts and their impact on flight feel.
• Filter settings and gyro noise reduction.
• Rates and expo adjustments for responsive control.
• Using Blackbox logs for advanced tuning analysis.

Module 4: FPV Video Systems and Antennas

• FPV camera types (CMOS vs. CCD, latency, FOV) and settings.
• Video Transmitter (VTX) power, channels, and smart audio/Tramp.
• FPV Goggle technologies (analog vs. digital - e.g., DJI O3 Air Unit, HDZero).
• Antenna types (linear vs. circular polarized) and placement.
• Optimizing video signal quality and range for FPV.

Module 5: Radio Control Systems and Protocols

• Understanding RC protocols (e.g., ExpressLRS, Crossfire, ELRS, FrSky).
• Binding receivers to radio transmitters.
• Radio link quality and telemetry monitoring.
• Failsafe configuration for FPV drones.
• Setting up switches and modes on your radio.

Module 6: Essential FPV Flight Fundamentals

• Mastering throttle management and altitude control.
• Smooth yaw, pitch, and roll inputs.
• Understanding throttle response in acro mode.
• Basic forward flight and turns.
• Developing muscle memory through consistent practice.

Module 7: Advanced FPV Maneuvers & Freestyle

• Executing rolls, flips, and power loops.
• Performing split-S and dives.
• Mastering inverted flight and advanced rolls.
• Gap flying and precision maneuvers through obstacles.
• Developing a personal freestyle flow and trick repertoire.

Module 8: FPV Drone Racing Strategies

• Analyzing racing gates and course layouts.
• Identifying optimal racing lines and cutting corners efficiently.
• Gate entry and exit techniques.
• Throttle management for maximizing speed and control.
• Race day preparation, etiquette, and competition rules.

Module 9: FPV Simulators for Skill Development

• Importance of FPV simulators for rapid skill acquisition without risk.
• Popular FPV simulators (e.g., Velocidrone, Liftoff, DRL Simulator).
• Simulator settings and calibration for realistic feel.
• Structured training drills and race tracks in simulators.
• Integrating simulator practice into a regular training routine.

Module 10: Troubleshooting and Maintenance

• Diagnosing common FPV drone issues: no power, no video, bad signal, motor desyncs.
• Using Betaflight configurator and Blackbox Explorer for diagnostics.
• Soldering repairs and component replacement.
• Regular maintenance checks and part inspection.
• Identifying and resolving intermittent problems.

Module 11: Battery Management and Charging Safety

• Understanding LiPo battery chemistry and characteristics.
• Safe charging practices for FPV LiPo batteries.
• Proper storage and disposal of LiPo batteries.
• Battery care for maximizing lifespan and performance.
• Calculating flight time and understanding voltage sag.

Module 12: Cinematic FPV & Professional Applications

• Using FPV drones for smooth, dynamic cinematic shots.
• Integrating GoPro and other action cameras for high-quality footage.
• Propeller choice for cinematic FPV (e.g., 7-inch, cinewhoops).
• Post-production considerations for FPV footage.
• Applications in inspection of confined spaces, asset capture, and specialized data collection.

Module 13: Safety, Regulations, and Community

• Safety best practices for FPV flight: spotters, clear areas, battery safety.
• Local drone regulations and airspace restrictions for FPV operations.
• Understanding frequency usage laws.
• Engaging with the FPV community: forums, clubs, meetups.
• Ethical considerations for FPV flight.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.