Abstract: To support the application of flying ad-hoc network （FANET）in area coverage, a three-stage formation clustering algorithm based on multiple virtual force control is proposed to maintain high coverage and connectivity simultaneously. Through utilizing the virtual force algorithm, a movement control strategy based on quadruple virtual forces is designed to manage the inter-machine distance dynamically. This strategy is deployed in the area coverage task that is divided into three phases. This strategy is combined to design a formation and clustering algorithm and to solve the difficulty of FANET network management. By simulation comparison and verification, the proposed algorithm is more effective and practical than traditional algorithm in terms of coverage rate and connectivity.