Every now and then something comes across my desk for review that just makes me stop and chuckle.  The Swarm was just such a review subject.  The Swarm is a basic, two channel coaxial helicopter that nearly anyone can fly with just a few minutes practice.

It comes with a built in LiPo battery that charges from the transmitter and with the exception of installing 6 AA transmitter batteries it is ready to go out of the box.

Kit Name: Swarm Alien Insect
Price: $39.99
Length: 4.5"

• 6 AA batteries

There isn't a whole lot of work to do to get the Alien Swarm ready for action.  The package includes a transmitter that is also a charger for the insect, the insect, and a small instruction sheet.  When you unpack the transmitter the first order of business is to install 6 AA batteries.  The batteries aren't provided with the kit but they are the only items you need to get going.

The transmitter has a small charging cord attached to the bottom (see photo).  You take the charge cord and connect it up to the insect.  Be careful as the charge cord and receptacle look a bit delicate and you have to make sure you hook it up with the proper polarity.  Once you have the charge cord connected simply slide the three position transmitter power switch to charge and the light should begin flashing.

When the light on the transmitter comes on solid turn the transmitter off, disconnect the charging cable from the insect and stow it in the transmitter.  You can then turn the transmitter on and verify that the throttle stick is at idle.  If you need a reminder to keep the transmitter stick at idle there is a large yellow placard that reinforces the concept that needs to be removed prior to the first flight.

All you have left to do is power on the insect and take her flying!

I found that the Swarm takes 40 to 50 minutes to fully charge the onboard LiPo battery.  Flight times average roughly four minutes before you can feel the power start to drop off. 

Flying the Alien Swarm is a simple affair.  It features a two channel coaxial rotor helicopter that offers throttle control which determines height and a simple steering control.  With a little bit of practice it can coaxed in the general direction where you want it to go.  Don't expect any aerobatics or precision hovering maneuvers, the Swarm simply isn't equipped for serious flying.

The Swarm is a bundle of fun for the kids though.  Both of my step daughters enjoyed flying it around and both picked up the concept and were able to control it fairly quickly.  They are both quick to entertain guests with it as well and it never fails to get a smile or a laugh, even out of a couple of serious helicopter pilots that often visit.

The Swarm!
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Alien Swarm!
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Great Planes
3002 N. Apollo Rd Suite 1
CHAMPAIGN, IL 61822
Support Phone: (877)504-0233
Sales Phone: (800)338-4639
Website: www.greatplanes.com
email: airsupport@greatplanes.com