I was able to hover 8 to 10 inches off the deck for 5 to 6 minutes at a time, keeping it in a 4 foot square area. I know it will fly better higher, but taking one step at a time. I guess I’m really disappointed in the life of the tail motor and it taking out the speed controller. Yes it did smoke! The main rotor still runs. I hope it didn’t take out the gyro too. I’ve been flying planes 40+ years. I can fly a coaxial heli just fine. I'm not a complete newbe.