Conquering the Skies in Minecraft: Everything About Elytra

In the vast world of Minecraft, travel takes many forms, but none quite as exhilarating as gliding through the air with Elytra. These rare wings unlock a new dimension of exploration, letting you swiftly cover massive distances and even pull off impressive aerial maneuvers. This guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining, using, repairing, and upgrading your Elytra in all Minecraft game modes.

Table of Contents

• Basic Information
• How to Get Elytra in Minecraft Survival Mode
• Preparing for Battle
• Activating the End Portal
• Finding the Stronghold
• Battling the Ender Dragon
• Inside the Ship
• Creative Mode
• Commands
• How to Fly with Elytra
• Flight Controls
• Fireworks Boost
• How to Upgrade and Repair Elytra
• Using an Anvil
• Using the Mending Enchantment

Basic Information

Elytra are unique, rare items that allow players to glide, making exploration faster and more efficient, especially when combined with fireworks. They look like wings, folding neatly into a cloak-like appearance when not in use.

While naturally found only in End City ships after defeating the Ender Dragon, there are alternative methods for obtaining them in different game modes, as detailed below.

How to Get Elytra in Minecraft Survival Mode

Preparing for Battle: Before venturing to the End, prepare thoroughly. Diamond or Netherite armor, ideally enchanted for protection, is essential. A well-enchanted sword and bow (consider Infinity or Power for the bow) are crucial for battling the Ender Dragon from a distance. Stock up on arrows or a crossbow with fireworks for effective attacks. Potions of regeneration, strength, and slow falling will prove invaluable. Bring plenty of food, especially golden apples, for emergency healing, and blocks to aid in reaching End Crystals. A carved pumpkin will protect you from Endermen's aggression.

Activating the End Portal: Gather 12 Eyes of Ender (also needed for locating the Stronghold). Craft Eyes of Ender using Blaze Powder (from Blaze Rods dropped by Blazes in Nether Fortresses) and Ender Pearls (dropped by Endermen).

Finding the Stronghold: Use Eyes of Ender to locate the Stronghold. Throw an Eye of Ender; it will fly towards the Stronghold, stopping near its location. Navigate the Stronghold's perilous labyrinths, and place Eyes of Ender in the End Portal frame to activate it.

Battling the Ender Dragon: Destroy the End Crystals first (bow and arrow or melee combat). Then, attack the dragon using your bow from a distance or sword up close.

After defeating the dragon, a portal to the End Gateway appears. Throw an Ender Pearl into it to teleport. Search the End City ships for the Elytra within an Item Frame.

Inside the Ship: Break the Item Frame to claim your Elytra and loot any chests.

Creative Mode: In Creative Mode, simply open your inventory (E key), search for "Elytra," and drag it into your inventory.

Commands: With cheats enabled, use the command /give @s minecraft:elytra in chat (T key).

How to Fly with Elytra

Equip the Elytra in your chest slot. Jump from a height, and press Space to glide. Use W, A, S, D for movement: W (forward), A (left), S (descend/slow), D (right).

Fireworks Boost: Use fireworks (crafted with paper and gunpowder) for speed boosts.

How to Upgrade and Repair Elytra

Using an Anvil: Repair Elytra using leather in an anvil.

Using the Mending Enchantment: Apply the Mending enchantment (from enchanted books) to automatically repair Elytra with XP.

Mastering Elytra flight takes practice, but the rewards—swift travel and breathtaking aerial exploration—are well worth the effort.