Pre-Flight & Ops
FPV Pre-Flight Checklist
A consistent pre-flight routine catches the problems that post-crash teardowns confirm were preventable. Run this checklist before every session, not just on unfamiliar sites.
Flying in Wind: Limits, Techniques, and Footage Recovery
Wind & Weather
Wind is the most common environmental variable that ruins FPV shoots. Understanding Beaufort scale limits for FPV, flying into wind on approach, and post-processing stabilisation can save a windy-day job.
jerky footage in windquad drifting on hoveryaw oscillations outdoors
Wind Limits for Cinematic FPV
As a practical guide:
- Under 15 mph (13 kt, Beaufort 3): No meaningful impact on a 5" build. Fly normally.
- 15–25 mph (Beaufort 4): Visible buffeting. Tighten your I-term and fly more deliberate lines. Footage usually usable.
- 25–35 mph (Beaufort 5–6): Difficult. High chance of jerky footage. Only fly if essential and expect significant post work.
- Over 35 mph: Do not fly a standard 5" cinematic rig. Risk of flyaway or loss of control.
Techniques for Windy Conditions
- Plan routes so the wind is at your back on fast passes and in your face on slow approaches — you'll have more control authority going into wind.
- Increase throttle authority by arming slightly higher idle.
- Avoid flying parallel to strong gusts — crosswind is harder to compensate for than headwind.
Post-Processing Stabilisation
Gyroflow and Reelsteady GO can recover a lot of wind-affected footage if the underlying motion is not too jerky. Shoot at a slightly wider FOV than you need to give the stabiliser room to crop.
#wind#weather#environment#stabilisation#gyroflow#cinematic