
Hey everyone, it’s Rick from Rick’s Jets Garage! Today I’m going to show you exactly how to set up and fly the F11S Apache RC helicopter—from stick calibration to GPS mode and even return-to-home. Whether you're a beginner or just picked this model up, this guide will help you fly with confidence.
🔧 1. Switching Transmitter Modes (Mode 1 & Mode 2)
The F11S controller comes preset to Mode 2 (throttle on the left), but it supports quick switching to Mode 1 (throttle on the right).
✅ How to switch:
Hold down the “MOD” button on the transmitter
Power on the transmitter while holding the button
Release the button – you’ve successfully changed the mode!
📌 Example:
I personally fly in Mode 1, so I always press the MOD button while powering on the transmitter.
🛰️ 2. Pre-Flight Calibration
There are two calibrations to consider before flying the F11S:
✳️ 1. Gyroscope Calibration
This is not necessary every time – it’s usually pre-calibrated from the factory.
Only do it on a flat surface if you notice unstable hovering.
✳️ 2. GPS Compass Calibration (Highly Recommended)
This is an important step for stable GPS flight.
Steps (Mode 1 Example):
Connect the battery and power on the helicopter
Turn on the transmitter and let it connect
Move both sticks in a specific direction to trigger GPS calibration
The LED will blink → start rotating the aircraft
✅ Rotation order:
Rotate horizontally first → lights turn green
Then rotate vertically (nose down) → lights stop flashing
Now GPS calibration is complete!
🚦 3. Flight Preparation
Choose flight mode:
Activate GPS + ARM + AUTO on the transmitter
Use stick command to start the motors
Slowly increase throttle – and take off!
🎮 4. Basic Flight Controls (Mode 1)
Throttle (Right Stick Up/Down) – controls altitude
Roll (Left Stick Left/Right) – moves aircraft left/right
Yaw (Right Stick Left/Right) – rotates the helicopter
Pitch (Left Stick Up/Down) – moves forward/backward
✈️ You start in Low Rate mode for stable control. Flip the switch for High Rate mode for more aggressive maneuvers (ideal for experienced pilots).
🕹️ 5. Advanced Flying Functions
🔄 Manual Mode:
Switch to Manual Mode to disable GPS assistance
The helicopter responds more quickly to your inputs
Recommended for advanced users
🔁 Inverted Flight:
Press MOD + push pitch forward → helicopter flips upside-down
📌 Warning: Controls are reversed in inverted mode!
Press MOD again to return to normal flight
✳️ 6. Smart Flight Modes
1. Figure-8 Mode:
The helicopter flies a programmed figure-eight path automatically
2. Circle Mode:
The helicopter circles a point while keeping the camera facing the center
🛑 Exit Smart Mode by moving any control stick manually
🏠 7. Return to Home (RTH)
When the helicopter flies far away, press the RTH button
It uses GPS to return to its takeoff point
If GPS signal is weak, you can switch to manual control and land it yourself
⬇️ 8. Auto Landing
Press the landing button on the transmitter
The helicopter will descend and land safely on its own
✅ During Rick’s test flight, the aircraft performed a long-range return and landed smoothly—very reliable!
🎯 Final Thoughts
The F11S Apache RC helicopter is more than just a good-looking model—it’s packed with smart features and reliable controls:
✅ Dual mode support (Mode 1 & 2)
✅ GPS positioning and return-to-home
✅ Manual, inverted, and smart flight modes
✅ Smooth response, great for both beginners and advanced users
🛒 Thinking about getting this bird in the sky? You’ll find the purchase link below the video!
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