Drone Flight-Time Calculator

Estimate hover time and learn when this estimate breaks down

Drone & Battery Inputs
kg

Battery Voltage (V): 11.1V

85%

Multiplier relative to hover power. Depends on airframe drag and speed.

km/h

Used for maximum range only — flight time comes from the power model and does not change with speed.

Flight Time Results

Hover Time

27 min 23 s

Cruise Time

30 min 26 s

Maximum Range

15.2 km

At a cruise speed of 30 km/h

Usable Energy

42.0 Wh

75.7% of the 55.5 Wh nameplate — 80% usable capacity at 3.5 V/cell average

ConfidenceMEDIUM
Design RiskLOW

Reasonable hover estimate. Forward flight and maneuvers will reduce actual time.

Check Current Draw
Battery Discharge Graph

⚠️ This is a simplified ideal discharge pattern for visualization. Actual voltage varies with C-rate, temperature, and battery age. This graph does not affect flight time calculations.

Assumptions

  • Hover-centric estimate (not forward flight optimized)
  • Assumes 80% usable battery capacity for safety
  • Uses average discharge voltage (3.5V/cell), not nominal 3.7V
  • Cruise time uses a multiplier on hover power (adjustable in Standard/Advanced)

When This Estimate Breaks Down

  • Actual flight time varies with wind, temperature, and flight style
  • High current draw causes voltage sag, reducing usable capacity
  • Forward flight efficiency depends heavily on airframe design

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