ESPFlight Docs v1
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Docs / Flight / Flight Modes

Flight Modes

Choose the simplest validated control profile first and introduce Advanced or Head Lock only after a stable baseline.

ESPFlight Docs · v1 • Validated v1 documentation path

# Available v1 modes

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ModeUseBeginner guidance
BeginnerLess aggressive starting control profile.Recommended for the first controlled manual hover and initial validation.
AdvancedMore advanced control profile.Use after Beginner behavior is stable and familiar.
Head LockHeading-relative control support.Leave off for the first hover; validate separately in a low-risk test before relying on it.

# Changing modes

A mode change is a meaningful flight-control change. Do not combine a first flight with mode switching, new PID values, new propellers or other experimental changes. Establish a repeatable baseline first.

# Takeoff / Landing are not basic modes

Assisted Takeoff/Landing depend on the optional VL53L0X altitude path being detected and ready. A manual first build does not require this sensor; keep the first flight path simple unless altitude assistance has already been validated.