Technology
How do drones fly?
A drone flies using several spinning rotors that push air downward, creating lift. By precisely varying the speed of each rotor, its onboard computer tilts and steers the drone — letting it hover, rise, and move in any direction with great stability.
See it in motion.
Watch a 2-minute animated lesson that shows exactly how drones works.
Step by step
- 1Multiple rotors spin to push air down and create lift.
- 2Varying each rotor's speed tilts and steers the drone.
- 3An onboard computer constantly balances it.
- 4Sensors and GPS help it hover and navigate.
Frequently asked questions
- How do drones fly?
- Spinning rotors generate lift, and varying their speeds lets an onboard computer steer and stabilize the drone.
- How does a drone hover so steadily?
- Its computer makes constant tiny rotor adjustments using sensors to counter drift and wind.
- How do drones know where they are?
- They use GPS plus sensors like gyroscopes and accelerometers to track position and orientation.