Leddlofting

Leddlofting is a term sometimes used to describe a specific type of aerial maneuver. While not a formally recognized aviation term, it typically refers to a rapid ascent followed by a significant deceleration and drop. This maneuver is often associated with hobbyist drone piloting or in video games, where it's used to create visually dynamic movements. The core components of leddlofting involve applying maximum upward thrust, momentarily halting or reversing thrust, and then allowing gravity to pull the object back down.

The term itself is a portmanteau, combining "led" (possibly referring to a lead weight or something heavy that would drop) and "lofting" (meaning to throw or send something upward). The combination suggests an object being thrown up with force and then allowed to fall. In practical terms, achieving a clean leddloft requires precise control over thrust and timing. A sudden power surge upwards, immediately followed by a sharp reduction or reversal of thrust, creates the characteristic upward arc and subsequent plunge.

While sometimes attempted by recreational drone users, leddlofting can be risky. Uncontrolled descents can lead to damage to the aircraft or surrounding property. Its use is more commonly observed in simulated environments where the consequences of such maneuvers are negligible. The term remains informal and is primarily used within specific communities rather than in official aviation or engineering contexts.