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2.1. Flight Time

Quick Theory​

Hover time is the maximum time for stationary flight, calculated using the following formula:

thover=60×PhoverVavg×CAh×0.8t_{hover} = 60 \times \frac{P_{hover}}{V_{avg} \times C_{Ah}} \times 0.8

SymbolDescriptionUnit
thovert_{hover}Hover Timeminutes
VavgV_{avg}Average Pack VoltageV (Volts)
CAhC_{Ah}Battery CapacityAh (Ampere-hours)
PhoverP_{hover}Hover PowerW (Watts)

The Flight Time Calculator offers Beginner, Standard, and Advanced options for users to choose from.

Regardless of the option selected, the flight time calculation results provide the following information:

  • Hover Time [min]
  • Cruise Time [min]
  • Maximum Flight Distance [km]: Assumes no communication range limitations; actual flight distance may be limited by communication equipment
  • Battery Capacity [Wh]
  • Confidence and Design Risk
  • Links to related checks such as Check Current Draw
  • Save and CSV export actions when available

2.1.1. Beginner​

Figure 1. Flight Time Calculator: Beginner

Input Parameters

  • Drone Weight: Choose a preset weight class or adjust a custom weight
  • Battery: Choose a common Li-Po battery preset
  • Flight Style: Efficient / Normal / Aggressive

Beginner mode uses simplified power coefficients based on the selected flight style. Use this mode for quick early estimates.

2.1.2. Standard​

Figure 2. Flight Time Calculator: Standard

Input Parameters

  • Drone Weight (kg)
  • Cell Count: Based on Li-Po battery, assuming 3.7V per cell
  • Capacity (mAh): Based on Li-Po battery
  • System Efficiency
  • Cruise Power Estimate

Standard mode gives direct control over battery voltage, capacity, efficiency, and cruise power assumptions.

2.1.3. Advanced​

Figure 3. Flight Time Calculator: Advanced

Input Parameters

  • Drone Weight (kg)
  • Cell Count: Based on Li-Po battery, assuming 3.7V per cell
  • Capacity (mAh): Based on Li-Po battery
  • Rotor Count
  • Rotor Diameter (inch)
  • Air Density
  • Figure of Merit (FM): Coefficient representing propeller performance efficiency

    To learn about propeller performance using CAD, please refer to Advanced Simulation: CFD Analysis.

  • System Efficiency
  • Cruise Power Estimate

Advanced mode uses momentum theory for hover power and is better suited when rotor geometry and air-density assumptions are known.

2.1.4. Battery Discharge Graph​

Figure 4. Flight Time Calculator: Battery Discharge Graph

The current calculator assumes Lithium Polymer (Li-Po) battery type for calculations. The graph visualizes an idealized voltage and capacity discharge curve for the estimated flight time. Actual voltage may vary with C-rate, temperature, battery age, and flight style.

Need Assistance or Have Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions: FAQ Link

Support Inquiries: support@everysim.io