I know how toggle the drone (Shift-x), rotate the drone camera (i, j, k, l, f, k) and move the aircraft (s, w, a, d, q, e). 

But, how does one MOVE the drone eg. circle the drone around the plane or move it closer or farther from the aircraft?

• I use the INSERT key to switch to the DRONE camera.
• I use the WASD keys to move forward/left/backward/right.
• I use the R and F keys to move up and down.
• I use the NUM4 and NUM6 keys to turn left and right.
• I use the NUM8 and NUM2 keys to pitch up and down.

Hi Matt

The key commands you listed should work fine to manipulate the drone camera, but allow me to make a suggestion. Consider using an X-box controller for your camera controls. I broke down and bought one a few weeks ago and its a game changer. Nothing to set up in the sim and very intuitive. And no more going back to start because I hit the wrong key.

Dan

 

An XBOX controller will spoil you really quickly.

 

I'm a better pilot with one.  👍

As said above: The drone I fly with an X-Box controller.

Everything else with my sidedstick or yoke.

Just buy an Xbox or compatible controller for like $20-30 ( old and used will do, as long as it works), and never have issues with the drone again 

(Some) people might think committing to an Xbox controller is the same as dealing with Xbox…🙂…

As said above, an Xbox controller is perfect (and highly intuitive) for Drone and Camera Views and also for taking screenshots etc., even if on PC.

Being on Xbox for the last 5 years, I’ve used the Controller along with my other peripherals…since the beginning of MSFS2020.

A nice piece of (wireless) hardware for MSFS if your system allows it.

With its shape and so forth seems like an awkward device to incorporate.  Do you have a stand or what have you to mount it on?  Def can't hold it and operate everything else so curious how users do this.  I have one which I use for 2KSports PGA Tour Golf.

Edited January 2Jan 2 by Noel

another vote for xbox controller - have used one since the start of 2020 - I also use it to move my view around inside the cockpit.

I use an XBox controller to control the drone.  It's easy to map the buttons and works well.  There are several videos on you tube as to the process.

9 minutes ago, jbcallender said:

I use an XBox controller to control the drone.  It's easy to map the buttons and works well.  There are several videos on you tube as to the process.

The good thing is everything you need is already mapped.  I added about 30 new mappings (not for views) to make me happy.

dd

1 hour ago, Noel said:

With its shape and so forth seems like an awkward device to incorporate.  Do you have a stand or what have you to mount it on?  Def can't hold it and operate everything else so curious how users do this.  I have one which I use for 2KSports PGA Tour Golf.

When you're in Drone Cam mode your not actually able to control the plane anyway so you're effectively hands free.

49 minutes ago, hanhamreds said:

another vote for xbox controller - have used one since the start of 2020 - I also use it to move my view around inside the cockpit.

Yes. It's one of the best hand controllers for 2020 nd2024. Never fly without it. I own 4 of them.

At this point I'll throw in a plug for my other device - the Logitech trackball:

https://www.bestbuy.com/product/logitech-mx-ergo-s-plus-wireless-ergonomic-trackball-mouse-with-6-programmable-buttons-wireless-graphite/J7H7ZYGRHW

See that ball?  You can spin it.  🤖

They have an S Version for smaller hands.

My trackball and controller are why I don't need an external view app.

Don't leave home without one.

dd

Edited January 2Jan 2 by Sky_Pilot071

You can bind any button to drone.  I personally bound my regular flight controls (which means I cant really fly and control the drone at the same time but imo drone is more for screenshots or interesting angles so it's not an issue).

INSERT enters drone view and I think default key is C so you can return to flying mode in that view.