AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL

770-00048 | REVISION A | 03.23.2016
REVISION HISTORY

ALTA 8 AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL

PART NUMBER: 770-00048

REVISION DATE DESCRIPTION

A March 2016 Initial Release
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 3

CONTENTS

2 Revision History

3 Contents

6 ALTA 8 OVERVIEW 

7 Disclaimer and Warning

9 Limitation of Liability

11 Introduction

12 Symbols, Abbreviations and Terminology

15 Dimensions

17 Included Items

18 Specifications

22 Limitations

24 System Diagrams

28 ALTA Mobile App

28 Additional Required Components (not included)

29 SETTING UP ALTA 8 

30 Unfolding/Folding ALTA 8

33 Radio Installation

38 Radio Mapping

43 Configuring for MōVIs

45 Isolator Cartridges

46 Battery Installation

51 Compass Calibration

54 Propellers

56 First Person View (FPV)

63 Tuning ALTA 8

66 ALTA 8 Flight Parameters

69 Resetting ALTA 8 WiFi Password

70 OPERATING ALTA 8 

71 Flight Controller Modes

74 Home Switch
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 4

75 Disarm Safety Switch

76 Status Light

78 Alarms

79 Orientation Lights

80 ALTA App Monitor

81 Data Logging

82 NORMAL PROCEDURES 

83 Unpacking and Setup

84 Before Starting

86 Before Takeoff

88 After Every Flight

90 After Last Flight

91 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES 

92 Emergency Guidance

93 Status Light Warning Indicator Illuminates

94 Pilot Disorientation

95 Unexpected Flight Controller Behavior

96 Battery Exhaustion

97 Loss of Radio Control Signal

98 Loss of FPV Signal

99 PERFORMANCE 

100 Weight / Endurance Performance Data

101 Allowable Gross Weight Gross Weight 

102 MAINTAINING ALTA 8

103 General Information and Techniques

104 Maintenance Items

108 Firmware Update Process

109 Motor Alignment

112 Guidelines Following an Accident
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 5

113 TROUBLESHOOTING 

116 APPENDIX 

117 Appendix A. Default Tuning Values

118 Appendix B. Data Logging Fields
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 6

ALTA 8 OVERVIEW 
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 7

DISCLAIMER AND WARNING

IMPORTANT - Please read this disclaimer and warning carefully and review 

the ALTA 8 Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) prior to flight. If you have any questions, 

please contact support@freeflysystems.com prior to using the ALTA 8. You can review 

the most current version of this AFM at www.freeflysystems.com/software-manuals/. 

By using ALTA 8, you acknowledge that you have read, understand and agree to this 

disclaimer. You agree that you are solely responsible for your conduct while using 

ALTA 8, and for any direct or indirect consequences that may result from its use. You 

agree to only use ALTA 8 for proper purposes that are in accordance with local and 

airspace rules and regulations. 

» ALTA 8 is not a toy and should be operated with extreme care, as improper 

operation can cause damage to property, serious personal injury or death. 

» As with any multi-rotor aircraft, ALTA 8 is a complex and technical 

machine. Novice pilots should invest sufficient time on a flight 

simulator and seek training from an experienced pilot prior to 

operation. The ALTA 8 Aircraft Flight Manual and a flight simulator 

are no substitute for training with an experienced pilot, particularly 

when it comes to learning how to safely operate ALTA 8. Novice pilots 

should never fly without the supervision of an experienced pilot.

» Always check ALTA 8 and its components prior to operation.

» Always maintain a safe distance from ALTA 8 when in use.

» Never attempt to touch ALTA 8 when the propellers are moving.

» Never fly ALTA 8 over or around people, power lines or other aircraft.

» Never fly with any propellers that have visible imperfections or damage. 

» Always keep children and animals a safe distance away from 

ALTA 8 when in use and when changing configurations.

» Only use propellers supplied by Freefly Systems 

that are designed for use on ALTA 8.

» Always remove the propellers or power ALTA 8 using a low power 

source when making a change to the configuration of ALTA 8 to 

prevent propeller strikes in the event of unintentional motor starts.

» Always remove the configuration jumper when making 

changes to the configuration of ALTA 8. 

» Always test ALTA 8 with the propellers removed to make sure that the 

motors are spinning in the correct direction and that the motor assignment 

is correct with respect to the Synapse flight controller. If you have either 

of these wrong, the ALTA 8 will be uncontrollable and dangerous.
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 8

» It is your responsibility to perform a full system 

check of ALTA 8 prior to every flight. 

» It is your responsibility to learn how to safely operate ALTA 8 

and to adhere to all applicable rules and regulations.

» Fly at your own risk.

» ALTA 8 is a tuned system with custom components selected for each 

application. Modification to, removal, or substitution of ALTA 8 components 

will void the warranty and can lead to unsafe operating conditions.
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 9

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

IN NO EVENT SHALL FREEFLY BE LIABLE TO BUYER FOR ANY INDIRECT, 

CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, INCIDENTAL, OR SPECIAL DAMAGES, OR ANY 

DAMAGES WHATSOEVER RESULTING FROM THE USE OF ALTA OR FROM LOSS 

OF USE, DATA OR PROFITS (HOWEVER CAUSED AND UNDER ANY THEORY OF 

LIABILITY), EVEN IF FREEFLY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH 

DAMAGES. IN NO EVENT SHALL FREEFLY’S LIABILITY FOR A PRODUCT (WHETHER 

ASSERTED AS A TORT CLAIM, A CONTRACT CLAIM OR OTHERWISE) EXCEED THE 

AMOUNTS PAID TO FREEFLY FOR SUCH PRODUCT. NOTWITHSTANDING ANYTHING 

HEREIN, IN NO EVENT SHALL FREEFLY’S LIABILITY FOR ALL CLAIMS ARISING OUT 

OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT EXCEED THE AMOUNTS PAID BY BUYER TO 

FREEFLY FOR PRODUCT IN THE LAST TWELVE (12) MONTHS. IN NO EVENT WILL 

FREEFLY BE LIABLE FOR COSTS OF PROCUREMENT OR SUBSTITUTE GOODS BY 

BUYER. THE LIMITATIONS SET FORTH HEREIN SHALL APPLY TO ALL LIABILITIES 

THAT MAY ARISE OUT OF THIRD-PARTY CLAIMS AGAINST BUYER. THESE 

LIMITATIONS SHALL APPLY NOTWITHSTANDING ANY FAILURE OF ESSENTIAL 

PURPOSE OF ANY LIMITED REMEDY. 

Freefly shall not be liable for damages or injuries incurred directly or indirectly from 

the use of ALTA 8 including, but not limited to, the following situations:

» Failure of operator to follow proper instructions and safety 

warnings found at www.freeflysystems.com.

» Failure of the operator to understand and operate the aircraft within the 

operating limitations described in this manual.

» Failure of the operator to follow onboard safety 

warnings while using ALTA 8.

» Failure of the operator to follow and comply with local rules and 

regulations.

» Failure of the operator to inspect ALTA 8 and 

its components prior to operation.

» Failure of the operator to properly maintain and/or service ALTA 8 through 

an authorized Freefly Service Center with genuine ALTA 8 parts.

» Use of third-party products on ALTA 8.

» Use of ALTA 8 in a physically or mentally impaired capacity.

» Use of ALTA 8 without sufficient training.

» Use of ALTA 8 in unsafe conditions, including but not limited to, bad or 

severe weather, such as rain, wind, snow, lightning, dust storms, etc., 

or in areas of magnetic or radio interference, such as power stations, 

broadcasting and cell phone towers, government prohibited airspace, etc.

» Improper operation, misjudgment or risky behavior while using ALTA 8.
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 10

» Infringement of third party data, audio or video 

rights recorded when using ALTA 8.
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 11

INTRODUCTION

ALTA 8 is a professional multi-rotor aircraft designed for demanding 

cinematic, television, and photographic applications. Within five 

minutes, ALTA 8 can unfold from its carrying case to flying some of 

the most capable cinema cameras on either the top or bottom of the 

aircraft. The SYNAPSE flight controller is purpose-built for cinema 

use, yielding precise yet smooth control.

This Aircraft Flight Manual has been prepared to describe the 

complete operation of airframe and flight control systems, and the 

normal maintenance of those items. Do not operate ALTA 8 without 

reading and understanding this manual.

This manual is not a substitute for adequate flight training. Training 

requirements can vary when operating in different countries or 

under different flight conditions. Always consult local regulations 

before flying ALTA 8. In areas where there are no flight training 

requirements, it is the sole determination of the pilot-in-command 

as to whether he or she has the appropriate level of training or 

experience for a given flight. Always set and adhere to personal 

minimums and fly within your own capabilities.
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 12

SYMBOLS, ABBREVIATIONS AND TERMINOLOGY

WARNINGS, CAUTIONS AND NOTES

Throughout the manual, warnings, cautions and notes are used to highlight various 

important procedures. These are defined as follows:

WARNING

Warnings are used to highlight procedures which, if not strictly observed, 

may result in personal injury or loss 

of life.

CAUTION

Cautions are used to highlight procedures which, if not strictly observed, 

may cause damage to equipment.

NOTE

Notes are used to highlight specific 

operating conditions or steps of a 

procedure.

METEOROLOGICAL TERMINOLOGY

ISA International Standard Atmosphere in which:

The air is a dry, perfect gas;

The temperature at sea level is 15° 

Celsius (59° Fahrenheit);

The pressure at sea level is 1013.2 

mbar (29.92 inches Hg);

The temperature gradient from sea level 

to the altitude at which the temperature is 

-56.5°C (-69.7°F) is -0.00198°C (-0.003564°F) 

per foot and zero above that altitude

MSL Mean Sea Level is the average height above 

the surface of the sea for all stages of tide

AGL Above Ground Level is the height of 

the aircraft above the ground

OAT Outside Air Temperature is the free air static 

temperature surrounding the aircraft
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 13

Pressure Altitude Altitude measured from standard sea level 

pressure (1013.2 mbar, 29.92 in. Hg) by a 

pressure or barometric altimeter

It is the indicated pressure altitude corrected for 

position and instrument error. In this Manual, 

altimeter instrument errors are assumed to be zero

POWER TERMINOLOGY

Maximum Continuous 

Power Output

The maximum typical power output of a 

motor averaged over the entire flight

Maximum Instantaneous 

Peak Power Output

The maximum power output of a motor during 

any phase of flight, such as when maneuvering

FLIGHT AND POWERPLANT CONTROL

Throttle Stick The radio controller stick responsible for 

throttle control. For Mode 2 controllers, this 

is the vertical movement of the left control 

stick. For Mode 1 controllers, this is the 

vertical movement of the right control stick

Yaw Stick The radio controller stick responsible 

for yaw (also called pan) control 

For Mode 2 and Mode 1 controllers, this is the 

lateral movement of the left control stick

Pitch Stick The radio controller stick responsible for 

pitch control. For Mode 2 controllers, this is 

the vertical movement of the right stick 

For Mode 1 controllers, this is the 

vertical movement of the left stick

Roll Stick The radio controller stick responsible for roll 

control. For Mode 2 and Mode 1 controllers, this is 

the lateral movement of the right control stick

Pitch/Roll Stick 

or Cyclic Stick

The radio control stick responsible 

for both pitch and roll control

For Mode 2 controllers, this is the right stick
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 14

WEIGHT AND BALANCE

Maximum Takeoff 

Weight (MTOW)

Maximum allowable weight at liftoff

Standard Empty Weight Weight of a standard aircraft

Basic Empty Weight Standard empty weight plus optional equipment

Useful Load Difference between take off weight 

and basic empty weight

Payload Useful load less battery weight

GENERAL TERMINOLOGY

sUAS Small Unmanned Aircraft System includes all 

components of the system required for the flight of 

an unmanned aircraft, including the radio controller, 

data link and other related support equipment
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 15

DIMENSIONS

457 

(18.0)

220

(8.6)

1325 

(52.1)

220

(8.6)

360 

(14.1)

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

1325 

(52.1)

1720

(67.7)

UNFOLDED PLAN VIEW WITH BOOM NUMBERING SCHEME MM (INCH)

457 

(18.0)

220

(8.6)

1325 

(52.1)

220

(8.6)

360 

(14.1)

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

UNFOLDED SIDE VIEW WITH LANDING GEAR MM (INCH)

457 

(18.0)

220

(8.6)

1325 

(52.1)

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

1325 

(52.1)

1720

(67.7)

UNFOLDED FRONT VIEW WITHOUT LANDING GEAR MM (INCH)
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 16

615 

(24.2)

250 

(9.8)

260 

(10.2)

FOLDED SIDE VIEW MM (INCH)

660 

(25.9)

615 

(24.2)

FOLDED PLAN VIEW MM (INCH)

660 

(25.9)

615 

(24.2)

250 

(9.8)

260 

(10.2)

FOLDED FRONT VIEW MM (INCH)
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 17

INCLUDED ITEMS

1. Case

2. ALTA 8

3. Case Lid Foam

4. Isolator Cartridges

a. (6) Teal (Installed)

b. (6) Black

c. (6) Red

5. Documentation

6. Electronic Luggage Scale

7. USB-Futaba Power Cable

8. Inverted Landing Gear

9. Antenna Tubes

10. FPV Cables

a. Skyzone/BOSCAM

b. BOSCAM, small connector

c. ImmersionRC/Fat Shark

d. Ready Made RC

11. (2) M3 × 6 Flat Head for Accessory Mount

12. Quick Release Battery Tray

13. 5.5mm Wrench

14. Hex Drivers (1.5mm, 2.0mm, 2.5mm)

15. Accessory Mount

16. Double-Sided Tape

16
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 18

SPECIFICATIONS

DIMENSIONS

Unfolded Diameter 

(does not include Props)

1325 mm

Folded Diameter

(does not include Props)

660 mm

Height to base of Toad In The Hole (TITH) 263 mm

POWERPLANT

Number of Motors 8

Motor Type Direct Drive 3-Phase PMAC Outrunner

Motor Make and Model Freefly F45

Motor Max Continuous Power Output 350 W

Motor Max Instantaneous 

Peak Power Output

950 W

Maximum RPM (flat rated) 6300 RPM

Equivalent Kv 384

Electronic Speed Controller Freefly Silent-Drive Sine Wave ESC

PROPELLERS

Make and Model Freefly ALTA Propeller

Material Carbon fiber with balsa core

Propeller Orientation (4) CW and (4) CCW Props

Propeller Type 18 × 6 Folding

BATTERY

Nominal Battery Voltage 6S / 22.2V

Maximum Battery Size 240 × 180 × 80 mm

Maximum Battery Quantity 2 Battery Packs (Parallel)

Minimum Battery Quantity 2 Battery Packs (Parallel)

Battery Connectors 2× EC5 (Parallel)

Required Minimum Battery 

Discharge Rating (Per Pack)

250A / 500A Peak
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 19

WEIGHTS

Maximum Gross for Takeoff1 18.1 kg (40.0 lbs)

Maximum Useful Load2 12.0 kg (26.4 lbs)

Maximum Payload3 9.1 kg (20.0 lbs)

Typical Standard Empty Weight: 6.2 kg (13.6 lbs)

 WARNING

Always refer to the following aircraft limitations section for 

complete information on allowable maximum gross weights 

at different altitudes and temperatures before any flight.

SPECIFIC LOADINGS

Typical Specific Power4 145 W/kg

Thrust Ratio at MTOW1 1.85 : 1

1 At sea level, ISA. Refer to the Weight Limitations section for complete loading 

information.

2

 Top and bottom mount. Includes batteries.

3

 Payload weight top or bottom mount. Battery weight not included and mounted on 

opposite side from payload.

4

 At MTOW, sea level, ISA.
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 20

FLIGHT CONTROLLER

Model Name Freefly SYNAPSE flight controller

Flight Modes Manual, Height Mode, Position 

Mode, Return-To-Home, Autoland

Supported Inputs: DSMX, DSM2, S.Bus, 

S.Bus2, PPM, FPV SD

Supported Radios Futaba S.Bus & S.Bus2, DSMX, 

DSM2 (Spektrum/JR), PPM, 

PPM Invert, PPM Graupner

Supported Radio Controller 

Telemetry Systems

Futaba w/ built-in voltage sense port

Minimum Radio Controller 

Channels Required

›5

Supported GNSS GPS, GLONASS, Galileo

Supported SBAS QZSS, WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS

First-Person View System 

Video Formats

NTSC, PAL

Supported First-Person 

View Transmitters

Skyzone, BOSCAM, 

ImmersionRC, Fat Shark

Supported First-Person View Cameras Ready Made RC

First-Person View OSD Telemetry User Configurable

Installed Transceivers Wi-Fi

Data Logging Rate 25 Hz

LIGHTING AND INDICATION

Status Light 1 Watt Red, 1 Watt White LED

Orientation Lights 3-Watt RGB LED

Orientation Light Color Options Red, Yellow, Blue, Green, White

ISOLATION SYSTEM

Vibration Isolation System Silicone O-Rings

Option 1: Soft / Light Payloads Red O-Rings

Option 2: Medium / Medium Payloads Teal O-Rings

Option 3: Stiff / Heavy Payloads Black O-Rings
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 21

PAYLOAD MOUNTING

Mounting Locations Bottom and Top Mount

Mounting System Freefly Toad In The Hole 

(TITH) Quick Release

FPV Camera Mount Between Booms 8 & 1

FPV Transmitter Mount Boom 2
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 22

LIMITATIONS

 NOTE

These limitations are advisory in nature and do not extend or 

restrict limitations provided by Governing Aviation Authorities.

POWERPLANT LIMITATIONS

Maximum RPM 6300 RPM

Maximum Battery Voltage 25.2 Volts

Minimum Average Battery Voltage 19.2 Volts

ENVIRONMENTAL LIMITATIONS

Do not fly ALTA 8 in temperatures exceeding 45oC (113oF) or below -20oC(-4oF).5

FLIGHT CONTROLLER LIMITS

Maximum Pitch/Roll Angle 45°

Maximum Yaw Rate 150° / second

5 Must additionally observe battery temperature ratings.
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 23

WEIGHT LIMITS

Maximum Payload 9.1 kg (20.0 lbs)

Maximum Takeoff Weight See following table Press Alt Ft Maximum Gross Weight (lb) 29.0 30.2 31.3 32.6 33.8 35.1 36.4 37.8 39.2 40.0 40.0 13.2 13.7 14.2 14.8 15.3 15.9 16.5 17.2 17.8 18.1 18.1 28.0 29.1 30.2 31.4 32.6 33.9 35.2 36.5 37.8 39.3 40.0 17.8 18.1 37.9 39.3 12.7 13.2 13.7 14.2 14.8 15.4 15.9 16.5 17.2 27.0 28.1 29.2 30.3 31.5 32.7 34.0 35.2 36.6 12.3 12.7 13.2 13.8 14.3 14.8 15.4 16.0 16.6 17.2 17.8 26.1 27.2 28.2 29.3 30.5 31.6 32.8 34.1 35.4 36.7 38.0 11.9 12.3 12.8 13.3 13.8 14.3 14.9 15.5 16.0 16.6 17.2 25.3 26.3 27.3 28.4 29.5 30.6 31.8 33.0 34.2 35.5 36.8 11.5 11.9 12.4 12.9 13.4 13.9 14.4 15.0 15.5 16.1 16.7 Maximum Gross Weight (kg) Maximum Gross Weight (lb) Maximum Gross Weight (kg) Maximum Gross Weight (lb) Maximum Gross Weight (kg) Maximum Gross Weight (lb) Maximum Gross Weight (kg) Maximum Gross Weight (lb) Maximum Gross Weight (kg) S.L. 9000 8000 7000 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 10000 0oC 10oC 20oC 30oC 40oC following table describes maximum gross weight limits with respect to altitude and temperature. As altitude and temperature increase, the density of the air decreases. Consequently, ALTA 8’s thrust will decrease. The 

ALTA 8 ALLOWABLE GROSS WEIGHT
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 24

SYSTEM DIAGRAMS

sUAS OVERVIEW

ALTA App

FPV Rx,

Preview Monitor*

*NOT INCLUDED

Radio Controller*

GPS Satellite

2.4GHz MōVI Controller*

HD Video Link,

Preview Monitor*
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 25

FLIGHT CONTROL

C A N

P W M

Status

Light

ESC ESC

ESC

ESC

ESC ESC

8 Position Lights

A.

B. B. Futaba Receiver or Generic Receiver

 S.BUS, S.BUS 2 or PPM

A. Spektrum Receiver

DSMX, DSM 2

SYNAPSE

Flight

Controller
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 26

POWER SYSTEM

EC5 Connector

Flight

Battery

Flight

Battery

SYNAPSE

Flight

Controller Futaba Tel.

Motor

 Lights

Motor

 Lights

Motor

 Lights

Motor

 Lights

Motor

 Lights Motor

 Lights

Motor

 Lights

Motor

 Lights

FUSE

F P V C A M

F P V Tx

RECIEVER

FUSE

RECIEVER

REGULATORS

12v 5v 5v
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 27

FPV EQUIPMENT

FPV Camera Lead

Pre-installed

FPV Camera

(not included)

FPV Camera Cable

FPV Tx Lead

Pre-installed

FPV Tx Cable

Boscam/Skyzone or Fat Shark/ImmersionRC

FPV Tx

(not included)

SYNAPSE

Flight

Controller
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 28

ALTA MOBILE APP

The ALTA App is used to configure ALTA 8 parameters, update ALTA 8 firmware, 

and to monitor ALTA 8’s status during flight. To download the ALTA App, search for 

“Freefly ALTA” in the App Store or on Google PlayTM.

Parameters may only be adjusted while ALTA 8 is on the ground and disarmed. In 

addition, radio mapping parameters can only be adjusted when the Configuration 

Jumper is removed. For more information on radio mapping, see the Radio Mapping 

section of this manual.

The ALTA App will be actively maintained, and additional functionality may be added 

over time. For information on individual app updates, refer to the App release notes.

 NOTE

When making configuration changes with the ALTA App, wait 

three seconds for the app to automatically save changes to 

ALTA 8 before shutting off the app or the mobile device.

ADDITIONAL REQUIRED COMPONENTS (NOT INCLUDED)

RADIO CONTROLLER

ALTA 8 supports a variety of radio controllers as outlined in the Flight Controller 

Specifications. A minimum of five (5) channels are required, with four (4) used for 

flight control, and the remaining one (1) used for mode selection.

However, a radio controller with at least 9 channels is highly recommended to 

make use of Velocity and Climb Rate Clamps, Return-To-Home, and Disarm Safety 

functions. It is recommended to use a radio controller with a three way switch for 

the Mode and Home functions, a two way switch for the disarm safety function, and a 

knob or slider input for both the Velocity and Climb Rate Clamp functions.

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTA 8 can accommodate a variety of Lithium Polymer (LiPo) flight battery packs. 

Battery packs must be 6S, having a nominal voltage of 22.2 V. Only run ALTA 8 using 

two packs at a time. Each pack must have a continuous discharge rating of 250 

amps or greater, and a peak discharge rating of 500 amps or greater. For additional 

information on expected flight durations, refer to the Performance Section of this 

manual.
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 29

SETTING UP ALTA 8 
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 30

UNFOLDING ALTA 8

ALTA 8 features swan-neck booms that fold into a compact size for 

travel. They are secured in an open position for flight using overcenter latches.

TO UNFOLD ALTA 8

1. Remove ALTA 8 from case

2. Fold down all eight boom retention clips

3. Open ALTA 8 booms
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 31

4. Snap shut all eight boom latches until they “click” 

5. Visually confirm all latches are seated properly

6. Remove prop protectors
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 32

TO FOLD ALTA 8

1. Secure props with prop protectors

2. Unlatch all eight booms

3. Close ALTA 8 booms

4. Fold up all eight boom retention clips to secure booms
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 33

RADIO INSTALLATION

RADIO CONTROLLER RECEIVER

ALTA 8 requires the installation of a radio control system. S.Bus, S.Bus2, DSM2, 

DSMX, and PPM (including inverted PPM and Graupner) receiver types are 

supported.

Additionally, ALTA 8 supports radio receiver diversity using S.Bus, S.Bus2, DSM2 and 

DSMX receivers. This means two receivers may be installed, and the SYNAPSE flight 

controller will automatically use the receiver with the best signal quality. Using two 

receivers requires the radio controller to be bound to both receivers.

Refer to the instructions provided with your radio controller to complete the binding 

process. For Spektrum/JR radios, a receiver is required to bind the satellites to a 

radio controller.

FOR FUTABA AND PPM RECEIVERS

1. Locate the noted closeout panels used for receiver installation 

(between booms 2 & 3 and 6 & 7). PPM and Graupner receivers 

can only use the position between booms 2 & 3.

2. Remove side closeout panel with radio wires using a 2.0mm hex driver
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 34

3. Plug signal wire into receiver

4. If using telemetry, plug in telemetry wire (refer to the Voltage Temeletry section)

5. Feed receiver antenna into lower antenna tube

6. Secure receiver using the provided double sided tape to inside of receiver 

housing

7. Reattach closeout panel
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 35

8. Route antenna wires into the two antenna tubes below ALTA 8 chassis

9. Repeat steps 1-8 for dual receivers (only applies to Futaba receivers)

FOR SPEKTRUM/JR:

1. Locate the noted closeout panels used for Spektrum/JR receiver installation 

(between booms 3 & 4 and 7 & 8)

2. Remove side closeout panel using a 2.0mm hex driver

3. Feed signal cable through panel grommet
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 36

4. Reattach closeout panel

5. Plug in receiver/satellite into signal cable

6. Attach receiver/satellite to exterior using double sided tape

7. Repeat steps 1-6 for dual receivers
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 37

VOLTAGE TELEMETRY

ALTA 8 supports battery voltage telemetry on Futaba radios using a receiver that 

supports an external voltage sensor, such as the R7008SB. Installing the telemetry 

wire is easiest when initially installing the receiver. To set up ALTA 8 with voltage 

telemetry for Futaba radios:

1. Remove the closeout panel between booms 2 and 3 with a 2.0mm 

hex driver and locate the radio receiver wire bundle

2. Identify the voltage sense wire and connector in the bundle. It is the 

small, 2-pin connector attached to a black and red wire pair

 NOTE

This wire is already connected to an in-line fuse. 

Soldering a fuse into this wire is not required.

3. Connect the cable to the external voltage sense port on the Futaba receiver

4. Reattach the closeout panel
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 38

RADIO MAPPING

ALTA 8 can be used with a variety of radio controllers. Different radio controllers 

can map functions to different channels, so properly mapping controller channels 

to ALTA 8 functions is an important step before flying. Radio mapping is performed 

using the ALTA App.

This section describes the steps required to complete radio mapping.

If you are uncertain about your channel mapping, obtain assistance from an 

experienced pilot or from Freefly Customer Support.

CONFIGURATION JUMPER

A small jumper is used to prevent motor operation while configuring radio mapping 

parameters. With the jumper in place, the motors may operate, but channel 

mapping is prevented. With the jumper removed, channel mapping may take place, 

but motor operation will be prevented.

To remove or replace the Configuration Jumper:

1. Locate the closeout panel between booms 5 and 6 where the jumper is installed

2. Remove the closeout panel using a 2.0mm hex driver
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 39

3. Remove or replace the jumper as needed

4. Reattach the closeout panel

MAPPING RADIO CHANNELS USING ALTA APP

Channel mapping is accomplished with the ALTA App. Prior to mapping channels, 

ensure your radio controller and receivers are properly installed. Refer to the Radio 

Installation section of this manual and your radio controller’s documentation.

1. Remove the Configuration Jumper

 WARNING

Always ensure the Configuration Jumper is removed prior to 

adjusting radio settings to prevent unintentional motor starts.

2. Power ALTA 8 using a battery pack or by plugging in the included 

USB-Futaba cable into an available port on a Futaba receiver

3. Open the ALTA App and connect to ALTA 8

4. Open Configurations > Radio

5. Open each ALTA 8 function and adjust the channel to the desired channel 

number, and use the toggle to invert the orientation of a control

6. Ensure proper channel selection by moving the control input on the radio 

controller and verifying the displayed graph in the ALTA App responds correctly

 WARNING

Ensure proper channel mapping prior to flight. Incorrect mapping

can lead to immediate loss of control.
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 40

ONCE CHANNELS ARE MAPPED

7. Remove the battery or USB-Futaba cable from ALTA 8

8. Replace the Configuration Jumper

FUNCTION DESCRIPTIONS

The following functions can be mapped to radio controller channels. These are found 

in the Radio section of the Configurations menu in the ALTA App. Each function 

is also represented by a chart that responds to control input allowing for quick 

verification of mapping settings.

CONTROLLER

Use this to select the appropriate receiver. The following guide is compiled for 

convenience. For complete specifications and which mode will work with your 

receiver, refer to your radio controller or receiver manuals.

» DSM2/DSMX are typically used by Spektrum and some JR controllers.

» SBUS is typically used by Futaba controllers.

» PPM is a generic standard used by many controllers and receivers.

» PPM Invert is the same as PPM except channel inputs are reversed.

» PPM Graupner interprets Graupner radio PPM inputs.

PITCH/ROLL/YAW/THROTTLE

The Pitch, Roll, Yaw and Throttle controls are the basic flight controls and are 

mapped to the two radio controller sticks.

MODE

The required Mode Switch selects between the three different flight modes: Manual, 

Height and Position. A three-position switch is recommended to select the three 

different modes. However, a two-position switch may be used, but will only allow for 

selecting between Manual Mode and (depending on radio controller mixes) either 

Position Mode or Height Mode

HOME SWITCH

The optional Home Switch selects between the different Return-To-Home (RTH) 

functions. A three-position switch is required for the Home Switch functions to 

select between the Set New Home Position, RTH Off, and initiate RTH functions.

VELOCITY AND CLIMB RATE CLAMP

Velocity and Climb Rate Clamps set the maximum ground speed or vertical speed 

available in Height Mode and Position Mode. The clamps can be adjusted mid-flight. 

An analog dial or slider is recommended for the Velocity and Climb Rate Clamp 

Functions.
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 41

DISARM SAFETY

The Disarm Safety Switch aids in preventing accidental motor disarming while the 

ALTA is in flight and in manual mode. It may be mapped to either a two-position or 

three-position switch. To set up the Lockout Switch, refer to the Mapping Channels 

section or the ALTA Aircraft Flight Manual.

ALL FUNCTIONS

The meaning of the direction or position of the indicator is described in the following 

table for all mappable parameters. The top and right positions on the radio mapping 

indicators represent 2000μs, and the bottom and left positions represent 1000μs, 

and the middle position represents 1500μs.

FUNCTION

IN-APP 

INDICATOR 

POSITION

INDICATES

Pitch Top Nose Up

Bottom Nose Down

Roll

Left Roll Left

Right Roll Right

Yaw

Left Nose Left

Right Nose Right

Throttle Top High Throttle

Bottom Low Throttle

Mode

Top Position

Middle Height

Bottom Manual

Home

Top Set New Home Position

Middle RTH Off

Bottom Initiate RTH

Velocity Clamp Top Fast

Bottom Slow

Climb Rate 

Clamp

Top Fast

Bottom Slow

Disarm Safety

Top On - Disarming Not Possible

Middle & 

Bottom Off - Disarming Possible

TYPICAL CHANNEL MAPPINGS
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 42

The following are channel mapping configurations as set in the ALTA App. These 

are recommendations only. Depending on exact radio models, these may help as 

an initial configuration. However, it is up to the pilot setting up ALTA 8 for flight to 

determine if these settings are appropriate.

FUTABA 14SG/8FG

FUNCTION CHANNEL NUMBER DIRECTION

Pitch 2 Normal

Roll 1 Normal

Yaw 4 Normal

Throttle 3 Reverse

Mode 5 Normal

Home Switch 6 Reverse

Disarm Safety 9 Reverse

Velocity Clamp 8 Reverse

Climb Rate Clamp 7 Reverse

SPEKTRUM DX18

FUNCTION CHANNEL NUMBER DIRECTION

Pitch 3 Reverse

Roll 2 Reverse

Yaw 4 Reverse

Throttle 1 Normal

Mode 6 Reverse

Home Switch 7 Reverse

Disarm Safety 8 Normal

Velocity Clamp 10 Normal

Climb Rate Clamp 11 Normal
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 43

CONFIGURING FOR MōVI

A MōVI can be attached to either the top or bottom of ALTA 8 via the Freefly Toad In 

The Hole (TITH) quick release.

ALTA 8 comes pre-configured for GroundView mounting a MōVI.

GROUNDVIEW

1. Prepare your MōVI for both GroundView and SKyView flight (see MōVI manual)

a. Attach landing gear

b. Install TITH receiver on MōVI

2. Connect MōVI to bottom Toad

SKYVIEW

 CAUTION

Top mounting is not supported by the MōVI M10.

1. Prepare your MōVI for SkyView flight

a. Remove landing gear (see MōVI manual)

b. Install TITH receiver on MōVI (see MōVI manual)
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 44

2. Connect and secure the supplied inverted landing gear to the bottom Toad

3. Remove Battery Mount Quick Release

4. Connect MōVI to top Toad
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 45

ISOLATOR CARTRIDGES

Different Isolator Cartridges can be used to fine tune vibration damping 

performance for different payload weights. Three isolation cartridge styles are 

provided with ALTA 8. The cartridges have o-rings colored red for light payloads, teal 

for medium payloads, and black for heavy payloads. Flight testing may be required 

to determine the optimal isolator for a given setup.

To install, place the cartridges between the top chassis plate and the battery plate. 

Ensure they are engaged in the track features and are parallel with the chassis and 

battery plate. Push inwards fully until they click, indicating the cartridges are locked 

in place. Pull outwards on the cartridge to ensure it is locked in place.

 CAUTION

Always ensure isolator cartridges are locked in place 

before flying ALTA 8. Isolator cartridges that are not 

locked can cause the payload to loosen and change 

ALTA 8’s fundamental flying characteristics.

To remove, pinch the cartridge latch to unlock it from the battery and chassis plate. 

Simultaneously pull the battery and chassis plate apart while pulling the cartridge 

outward.
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 46

BATTERY INSTALLATION

Batteries may be installed on either the top or bottom of an ALTA 8 and are always 

mounted opposite of the payload location. In both locations, battery packs are 

secured with silicone straps tensioned across the packs. The straps are secured 

using studs located on either side of the packs.

 WARNING

Always secure battery packs with both battery retention straps.

 CAUTION

Ensure both battery packs are at a similar state of charge (a 

full pack voltage difference less than 0.5V) prior to connecting 

them to ALTA 8. Plugging in two dissimilarly charged packs 

could cause one pack to rapidly discharge into the other 

and damage the batteries or cause a battery fire.

 CAUTION

Only use packs that are identical in their capacity and at a 

similar condition. Using a pack with another that is larger, 

or has many more cycles, can damage the battery packs.

 CAUTION

Always refer to and follow the battery manufacturer’s instructions, 

recommendations and guidelines for battery handling.

 CAUTION

When plugging in battery packs, ensure the polarity is 

correct. Positive is indicated by a red power lead, and 

negative/ground is indicated by a black power lead. 

Reversing polarity will damage ALTA 8’s electronics.
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 47

GROUNDVIEW

1. Place battery retention strap studs at the appropriate height for battery packs

2. Adjust battery stops to fit battery packs

3. Attach the single-hole end of the battery retention straps to the studs
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 48

4. Place battery packs on battery tray

 CAUTION

Do not install batteries on a tray with the Toad In The Hole 

adapter installed. If installing batteries without the Battery Mount 

Quick Release for GroundView, remove the Toad adapter first.

5. Tension and secure battery retention straps
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 49

SKYVIEW

 CAUTION

Always completely secure the inverted landing gear by closing 

the TITH quick release lever. Inverted landing gear that are not 

completely attached can rotate and unplug battery leads.

1. Pinch the battery tray handles and slide to remove it from landing gear

2. Attach the single-hole ends of the battery retention straps to the studs on the 

battery tray

3. Place battery packs onto battery tray
| AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 50

4. Tension and secure battery retention straps

5. Slide tray with battery packs back into landing gear

6. Ensure tray and battery packs are secure