Like everything in tech, the FPV hobby moves in trends. Lately, fixed-wing aircraft are making a strong comeback, thanks to a wave of FPV-centric platforms designed with HD video in mind. Brands like TBS, AtomRC, ZOHD, Heewing, and VCI are leading the charge, sparking renewed interest in wings and attracting a new generation of pilots. Here's what you need to know before diving in.
What Is a Fixed-Wing Aircraft?
As the name suggests, a fixed-wing aircraft has stationary wings—unlike helicopters or quadcopters. These include delta wings, gliders, EDF jets, and park flyers. Fixed-wing craft are generally more efficient than multirotors because their wings generate lift passively, allowing for longer flight times. However, they're more affected by wind and air density.
Choosing the Right Wing
Your choice of airframe depends entirely on what you want to do:
Speed: Go for delta or flying wings. They’re sleek, lightweight, and built for high thrust-to-weight performance.
Efficiency: Look for low wing loading—large wings with minimal weight. These “floaty” designs are great for long-range cruising.
Tight Spaces: Choose a wing with low stall and top speeds. They’re agile at low speeds and ideal for smaller flying areas.
Flight Controllers & Receivers
Unlike drones, fixed wings can fly without a flight controller—thanks to their physical control surfaces operated by servos. Drones rely on differential thrust and need stabilization; planes don’t.
That said, flight controllers unlock powerful features like stabilization, GPS navigation, return-to-home, waypoint missions, and on-screen display (OSD) for FPV. Receivers, on the other hand, keep things simple—plug in and go with minimal setup.
Where to Start
It’s tempting to buy the latest, hyped-up wing all the YouTubers rave about. But many of those models aren't beginner-friendly—they require complex builds and tuning. For first-timers, twin-tractor planes are the way to go. They’re easier to build, more stable in flight, and forgiving during crashes.
Solid beginner choices include the AtomRC Penguin, Heewing T1, and H1. These platforms offer a gentle learning curve, giving you room to experiment and build confidence before upgrading to more advanced models.
Fixed-wing FPV is experiencing a well-deserved resurgence, blending classic flight dynamics with modern tech like HD video and advanced flight controllers. Whether you're chasing speed, endurance, or just a fun way to explore the skies, there's a wing out there for you. Start simple, learn the fundamentals, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering this exciting corner of the FPV world.