Hovering Outdoors

Some general notes on hovering outdoors.
The wind can be a major factor in the behavior of your model RC helicopter.

First and formost, a small, lightweight rc helicopter, especially fixed-pitched models can be swept away in the wind. If it's a windy day, reconsider your practice session.

Next, if it's a perfectly still day, hovering off the ground can be more difficult. The helicopter generates lift by fanning the air around it downward. We'll skip the part about low pressure vs. high pressur zones. On a still day, the helicopter will create something of a donut of air around itself and the heli will fall through the hole. A nice, light breeze will move that donut away from the heli and help maintain lift. A nice steady 5 mph breeze is perfect. On a day where the wind is variable, you'll find the model bobbing up and down depending on the amount of wind.

And, for training purposes, it's easiest to practice with the nose into the wind.