The ZOHD Altus Long Range FPV Plane

Today, I got a brand new FPV plane from ZOHD. ZOHD is back and I am excited about it. This company has been producing some of the most fun plug and play FPV planes for the past 5 or 6 years.

Specifications

The ZOHD Altus Long Range FPV Plane is designed to accommodate a 4S 7000 pack. With the battery placed all the way forward, you can expect a flight time of around 30 minutes. The plane features a spot for a flight controller at the back, with a removable hatch for easy access. It also includes nine pin servo attachments and options for FPV systems.

Flight Experience

Equipped with 9G digital servos, the ZOHD Altus Long Range FPV Plane offers a smooth and responsive flight experience. The detachable wing and carbon fiber tail rod contribute to its overall stability and performance in the air. The plane is compatible with various setups, including the RadioMaster Boxer with a vtail mix for elevator and rudder control.

Overview of the ZOHD Altus Long Range Fpv Plane

Here the servos are already inside the back side of the the plane as well and spot for GPS, and you can run a variety of XV cameras in here, including any of the analog cameras, the HD cameras or walk snail or whatever you want to put in. It will also hold a GoPro in the front as well so it’ll to GoPro its about around a 50. Some odd inch wingspan on this one and uh. It just looks super cool and its a twin, so yeah Im excited another twin on the channel. That means that we can cover more ground quicker and have a little more speed for a long range type of portable RC plane. But Ive been excited about this one.

Pricing and Versions Available

Since it came out because uh I’ve been missing, Zod airplanes and I’m very happy that this plane is coming out and it’s around 150 for the PMP version. I think the kit version is around a 100 bucks. You can add your own Electronics, so without further Ado lets go ahead and fire it up and uh lets, give it a toss and I’ll do some line of sight for you, as well as some onboard footage with an a 360 camera on top, should be a Lot of fun.

Flight Test and Maiden Voyage

This is going to be my maiden of this plane, so hopefully everything goes good. I have a 4S lion pack, it’s a 7000 milliamp uh.

Pre-flight Check

They do recommend from 4S 5000 um yeah and in my case, Im doing 7000, so well see how that goes today. Hopefully, everything is uh going to go as planned. I have some elrs on here as well. Ive already got the mixing set up inside my radio Master boxer thats. What Im going to fly it on today and hopefully we can get some onboard footage as well, and hopefully it doesnt crash on takeoff. But you know thats always a thing or can be a thing, so were going to pray that it doesnt do that were going to do a surface check real quick up down left right there, good and uh in the back as well set up for the Vil Im going to check my throttle want to make sure it pulls feels like its going to pull and whats cool about this plane is its pretty pretty portable it comes apart. Has really nice Servo connections here in the wing Im going to show you a little bit. Uh in this video as well and its just really easy to take apart. If you get the PMP version, you can add your own receiver to this and uh fly whatever you want. Really so Im going to go ahead and start our onboard camera here and I have a little bit of Expo in here as well. If you guys are wondering I have 35 Expo in my surfaces here, so Im going to go ahead and uh throttle up toss it into the wind, oh wow.

Smooth Takeoff

It actually feels like it has stabilization in it from that takeoff, its really hard to judge the distance between that tree and this plane. Wow, it’s flying really good. I haven’t trimmed anything out. I just left everything the way it is.

Speed and Maneuverability

One thing about flying like a twin-engine plane is that it is a lot faster, even on a lion than that single prop plane. I have a lot of weight up front. I did see it in the house before I came out here today for my maiden, but man, that’s cool. I’m also flying it off of one of the radio master. I believe it was the ec5 and that’s pretty much an RC car for channel type of receiver.

Potential for Upgrades

Just goes to show you that you can fly RC airplanes off those really nice flight tests. I would definitely probably put a DJI 03 on this plane for sure nice little flight controller action would be nice. It’s been a while since I’ve had a line of sight flight test. This is kind of fun. Wow, this thing is Zippy.

Observation of Birds

There is a bird of prey above us kind of just hovering up there and checking out this plane. We’ve got another one on my right, so I’ve got two bird of prey up there right above the plane wondering what that thing is. Man, it’s really Zippy.

Barrel Rolling with ZOHD Altus

You know it makes me want to do a barrel roll yeah, I mean – and this is even with 35 Expo in there. So I also have my travel set to about 80 on my servos. If you’re wondering, if you’re flying radio master and those are some pretty low KV Motors – and I feel like it has a pretty low stall rate, but in some of my tighter turns, I definitely need to keep that throttle up.

Aerobatic Abilities

I’m just going to try a barrel roll what the heck there we go, there’s a barrel roll. Hopefully my insta 360 is still on board that will suck if I throw that to the ground, but I did put some extra tape on it and that’s about half throttle right there. That was half throttle. I’m so glad to see that Zod is back to making some planes because you know 5 six years ago, Zod was doing so many releases still Loop, awesome, okay, it’ll, Loop and roll. It seems to be really aerobatic

ZOHD Altus and Its Manufacturer

Back to what I was saying about Zod they used to be. I believe they still are. You know one of the number one fpv plane manufacturers out there there making some kits for us, some bin andly, it’s just so cool to see this plane come out and Zod seems like they’re back in the game, which is really cool.

ZOHD Altus Long Range FPV Plane Review

Listen to that thing, its smooth and quiet that is so awesome, and you know this is a really nice break from flying quads like if youve never flown an RC airplane before you should definitely get into that. If youre already flying some fpv quads, I feel like theyre, easier, less hassle.

Servos Quality

Um. One thing, though, is you have to deal with servos and for the guys that are experienced. I have to say that when I plugged in this plane – and I moved the servos for the first time – I could tell that they felt like quality servos. They didnt, it f, almost feel like a digital Servo, really smooth man.

Flight Characteristics

I just want to fly this thing like an aerobatic 3D plane, but you know the thing is: is this is flying a lion and I really dont want to a lieon battery. I really dont want to uh push it too hard. You know what I mean: cuz Lions dont like high amp draw God. This thing is fun to fly line of sight, though, look at that thing whipping through there just like a rocket Im, half throttle right there, its just its so fast on Twin.

Speed and Maneuverability

You know you can really send this thing up into the mountains. Look at thats a little over half throttle there tight turn com straight at the tower right here. Man reminds me of some of those pylon planes that we used to fly back in the day on Nitro, its Zippy, so yeah.

Long Range Fun

The ZOHD Altus Long Range FPV Plane is a great choice for those looking to fly long distances. Whether you’re on the Oregon coast or the cliffs of the UK, this plane allows you to explore vast areas with ease. Its twin engines provide power and efficiency, making it capable of covering some serious miles.

Efficiency and Flight Time

With a 4S 7000 battery, you can expect a flight time of around 20 to 30 minutes. The ZOHD Altus is small and portable, making it convenient for transportation to different flying locations. Its smooth flight characteristics make it a joy to fly, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pilot.

Exciting Features

As a plane enthusiast, I am thrilled to review the ZOHD Altus and share my experience with fellow hobbyists. The upcoming spring season brings new releases and exciting planes to test out. From FMS models to unique designs like the Kingfisher with floats, skis, and oversized wheels, there’s a lot to look forward to in the world of RC aviation.

In-flight Encounters

During one of my flights with the ZOHD Altus, I encountered a bird of prey hovering above me, seemingly curious about the plane. Its presence added an element of excitement to the flight, making the experience even more memorable. Despite the close encounter, the ZOHD Altus performed flawlessly, demonstrating its reliability and stability in the air.

Live and Let Live

Some people prefer to respect the boundaries of nature when flying their FPV planes. Just like being in the ocean with sharks, it’s important to let wildlife have their space and not disturb them while enjoying the thrill of flying.

Tail Waggle in Tight Turns

One common issue with FPV planes is experiencing tail waggle in low-speed, tight turns. This can affect the stability and control of the aircraft. It’s important to be aware of this issue and adjust flying techniques accordingly.

Landing Challenges

Landing an FPV plane can be a challenging task, especially when trying to avoid obstacles like trees. It’s crucial to have good spatial awareness and depth perception to safely land the aircraft. Choosing a field with tall grass can provide a safer landing spot and reduce the risk of damaging the plane.

Turbulence Near the Ground

When flying close to the ground, turbulence can be a significant factor affecting the stability of the aircraft. Pilots need to be prepared for sudden changes in air pressure and adjust their flying approach accordingly to avoid stalling or losing control of the plane.

Choosing the Right Flying Location

For a successful flight test, selecting the right flying location is essential. A field with tall grass that provides a clear landing area and minimal obstacles is ideal for testing the capabilities of the plane. It allows pilots to focus on flying the aircraft without worrying about potential hazards.

Maiden Flight Experience

If you’re doing a maiden, it’s almost like scooching around. I’m just searching for my spot here so I’m going to go ahead and almost crab, just then I’m going to go ahead and make another approach. I’m going to come from my left. Try not to hit this tree here. I’m gonna bleed off a little bit of speed here, I’m trying not to hit some of this debris stuff right here, get over that stuff. Oh baby, little bit of cartwheel and threw the camera off, but it’s right here in front of me. Sorry about the wind folks, a little bit of wind today, you know when I pulled up. I was worried about that. Oh, the camera’s still recording, that’s awesome.

Final Thoughts on the Altus

Alright, so let’s go back to the bench now. Let’s give some final comments on this awesome Zod Altus. That was a lot of fun. One of the things that you want to get right with this plane is making sure that your CG is right before you come out to fly. I tried a variety of different batteries on there and this information will be great for guys out there looking for what battery to fly with it. I tried one of my 3s 2200 batteries.

Battery Compatibility

Its kind of a standard Park flyer size battery eflight makes them uh Hobby, King and and a bunch of other companies, but the 2200 battery as far forward as I can get it wouldnt work out. It wont fly a 4S 1300 because itll be tail heavy, so both those batteries were tail heavy um. You can fly something like a 4S 4000 pack um, but it was a little bit wide for slamming in the front here so thats, one of the things. If you get a Slimmer battery for this plane, the better 4000 milliamp, uh and and higher – and you know I was able to to get my 7000 in here – which is great – and it has an xt60 here – its not even unplugged yet Im sitting here talking with The live plane um.

Connectors and Wing Design

but but I was also impressed with the connectors on the wing and how easy those snap into place. There is a carbon Spar that also is in there as well, and you have two pins on the inside that have to be uh unscrewed before you can take the wing off. But you pull this off right here and once I pull this pin out thats the nice thing about it, it has two locking pins on the inside of the fuselage, so its not going to like come apart.

Security and Stability

Midair Ive had flown so many RC airplanes where the wings just flew off um and a lot of times.

Unboxing and Initial Impressions

Upon receiving the ZOHD Altus Long Range FPV Plane, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the packaging. The plane was securely nestled in the box, with all the necessary components neatly arranged. The inclusion of black stickers for securing the wings was a thoughtful addition, ensuring easy transportation and storage.

Assembly and Flight Readiness

The assembly of the ZOHD Altus was a breeze, with the wings easily attaching via a ninepin connector. The robust and thick plastic construction of the connector inspired confidence, and the ease of plugging it in was a definite plus. The spacious internal layout of the plane allows for the addition of a flight controller, with ample room for customization. The designated spots for the GPS module and battery bay showcase the thoughtful design of the aircraft.

Flying Experience

As I took the ZOHD Altus out for its maiden flight, I was immediately impressed by its performance. The stability and maneuverability of the plane were exceptional, even in windy conditions. The spacious battery bay accommodated a 4S 5000-7000 pack with ease, and I would recommend using a Li-ion pack for optimal flight duration. The overall flight experience was smooth and enjoyable, with the plane responding well to commands.

Zod 7000 mAh Lion Pack

The Zod 7000 milliamp lion pack has served me well for many of my FPV planes. It comes with magnets and different setups for the front end. There’s a hole for a GoPro, making it easy to mount your FPV camera. It’s versatile and allows for various configurations for different cameras and devices.

Easy Set-Up

The Altus has a removable front nose cone with pre-drilled holes for various attachments. It’s convenient for mounting your FPV gear, such as a GoPro or other cameras. The DJI or any other FPV camera can easily be attached, making the set-up process quick and hassle-free. The Altus is user-friendly and allows for customization based on individual preferences.

Flight Performance

For just $150, you can add your own receiver and battery to the Altus and start flying line of sight. It’s recommended to test it out line of sight initially before adding your FPV gear. Once you have all your controls worked out, you can easily integrate your FPV system for an immersive flying experience. The Altus offers great flight performance and stability, making it an excellent choice for long-range FPV flights.

Upcoming RC Airplane Reviews

If you enjoy RC airplane reviews, be sure to stay tuned to the channel for more awesome reviews, including upcoming ones from FMS. The Altus is a standout choice for FPV enthusiasts looking for a reliable and high-performing plane. With its versatility, ease of set-up, and great flight characteristics, the Altus is a must-have for anyone interested in long-range FPV flying.

Flying Manual or with Flight Controller

If you’re looking for a fun and versatile FPV plane, the ZOHD Altus is a great choice. You can fly it manually for a more hands-on experience, or add a flight controller and GPS for more advanced features. The choice is yours!

Unbiased Reviews

It’s important to note that the reviewer does not receive payment for making these reviews, and there is no pressure to click on affiliate links. The focus is on providing honest feedback and information to viewers. There are multiple links provided in the video description for viewers to explore further.

Fun & Exciting

The ZOHD Altus is a fun little plane that offers a great flying experience. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the ropes or an experienced pilot wanting to try something new, this FPV plane has something for everyone. Enjoy the thrill of flying with the ZOHD Altus!

Conclusion

The ZOHD Altus Long Range FPV Plane lives up to its reputation as a reliable and enjoyable aircraft for FPV enthusiasts. With its long flight time, sturdy construction, and versatile setup options, it is a great choice for both beginners and experienced pilots alike.

The ZOHD Altus Long Range FPV Plane exceeded my expectations in terms of quality and performance. Its sturdy construction, easy assembly, and customizable features make it a standout choice for FPV enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned flyer, the ZOHD Altus is sure to provide an exhilarating flying experience.

Whether you decide to purchase the ZOHD Altus or not, the most important thing is that you enjoy the content and the flying experience. Keep exploring new horizons in the world of FPV flying, and remember to always have fun in the skies. Happy flying!