FPV drone racing in India is popular, with thrilling races now occurring in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai. Whether you’re an aspiring pilot or just drone-curious, this 2024 guide covers everything you need to get started in the high-speed world of Indian FPV racing.
Top 5 Racing Events in India
Here are the most anticipated FPV racing events happening across the country:
- Indian Drone Racing League (IDRL)
- Locations: Pan-India
- Known for: Nationwide qualifiers and tech expos
- Bangalore Drone Racing Cup
- Location: Bangalore Aero Showgrounds
- Known for: High-speed tracks and corporate sponsors
- Mumbai FPV X Series
- Location: Navi Mumbai Race Arena
- Known for: Night races and neon-lit tracks
- Chennai Coastal Clash
- Location: Marina Drone Zone
- Known for: Windy beach circuits and coastal visuals
- Delhi Techfly Race Fest
- Location: Delhi Drone Campus
- Known for: Student racers and tech startups
Budget Racing Drones Under ₹50,000
Getting started doesn’t mean going broke. Here are great options under ₹50K:
- Eachine Tyro79
- Type: 3″ build kit
- Price: ₹8,500–₹12,000 (DIY)
- Pros: Inexpensive and customisable
- BetaFPV Meteor75 HD
- Type: Indoor Whoop
- Price: ₹15,000–₹18,000
- Pros: Lightweight, great for learning line control
- iFlight Nazgul5 V2
- Type: 5″ freestyle/racing hybrid
- Price: ₹27,000–₹35,000
- Pros: Ready to race with a durable build
- GEPRC Phantom Toothpick
- Type: Sub-250g racer
- Price: ₹28,000–₹32,000
- Pros: Nimble and perfect for tight courses
Essential Gear for FPV Drone Racing
To get on the grid, you’ll need more than a drone:
- FPV Goggles:
- Fat Shark Dominator HDO2: ₹55,000–₹65,000
- Skyzone Cobra X: ₹22,000–₹28,000
- Controllers:
- Radiomaster TX16S: ₹17,000–₹21,000
- Jumper T-Pro: ₹12,000–₹15,000 (compact and beginner-friendly)
- Chargers & LiPos:
- ISDT Q6 Pro: ₹4,000–₹6,000
- 4S or 6S LiPo packs: ₹2,000–₹3,500 each
Safety Rules for Organised Races
FPV races in India must follow DGCA’s UAV guidelines to ensure safe, legal flying:
- All drones over 250g must be registered on Digital Sky.
- Pilots need a Remote Pilot Certificate for racing-grade drones.
- Racing organisers coordinate with local ATC and authorities.
- Spectator safety is enforced with net barriers and safe zones.
- Failsafe settings and GPS lock are recommended for open-area races.
Interview: Champion Racer from Chennai – Arjun K.
We spoke with Arjun K., winner of the 2023 Chennai Coastal Clash.
Q: How did you get into FPV racing?
A: In 2020, I saw a video on YouTube, built my first quad from scratch, and was hooked. Racing gave me a sense of control and adrenaline unlike anything else.
Q: What’s your current setup?
A: I fly a custom 5-inch with a T-Motor F7 stack, TBS Crossfire, and DJI FPV system. I also use a Radiomaster TX16S.
Q: Any advice for beginners?
A: Start with a simulator like Velocidrone, join local WhatsApp groups, and never fly without checking your firmware and failsafes. Also, respect the rules, especially around airports and public places.
Final Thoughts
FPV drone racing in India is not just a sport—it’s a rapidly growing community. With the right gear, some practice, and a little courage, you could compete at the national level quickly. Stay safe, stay legal, and keep it FPV!