Ok… so you’re looking to take your new Mavic Air for a spin but are unsure of just how high you can fly it? Well, that’s what we’re here to help with!
There seems to be some confusion about this online and DJI themselves have not made it easier. They mention an “altitude” limit in their tutorials, but what they mean by altitude is actually height above ground level (i.e. the terrain). So, don’t worry there isn’t really any limit at all – well apart from one…
The legal airspace restrictions around airports are something you need to pay attention to, especially if you plan on flying outdoors near your local airport or even a major international airport (if within 5 miles of an airport – even a small one – you must contact the airport and air traffic control tower for permission).
Otherwise, general airspace restrictions are:
- 400ft (120m) above ground level when flying in open areas away from people and buildings
- 500ft (150m) above ground level when flying within 3 miles of an airport
- 1,000ft (300m) above ground level when flying in congested areas or near large groups of people
- 2,000ft (600m) to avoid manned aircraft
DJI also has a “No Fly Zone” feature which restricts your drone from entering certain airspace. The feature is locked by default and can be unlocked in the DJI GO 4 app. You can then zoom in to see more detail on the map or switch to satellite view. When you are within 5 miles of an airport, it will grey out and is unavailable for use.
Note: that No-Fly Zone cannot be used when your drone is already in the air… so make sure you plan ahead!
You can find some great resources for identifying airports near you (and what their height restrictions are) over at Fltplan.com – but I highly recommend using this tool carefully as flying higher than is legally allowed poses a significant risk – even with GPS mode active!
5 tips about DJI drone flying
- Always check your aircraft and propellers for damage before each flight
- Keep your aircraft within visual line of sight (VLOS) at all times
- Be aware of your surroundings and don’t fly over people or congested areas
- Don’t fly near airports or other manned aircraft without prior permission
- If flying in close proximity to an airport, make sure you contact the airport and air traffic control tower first!
What is the DJI Mavic Air 2’s maximum altitude?
The DJI Mavic Air 2 has a maximum altitude of 4000 meters.
What are the general airspace restrictions for drones?
400ft (120m) above ground level when flying in open areas away from people and buildings, 500ft (150m) above ground level when flying within 3 miles of an airport, 1,000ft (300m) above ground level when flying in congested areas or near large groups of people and 2,000ft (600m) to avoid manned aircraft.
Can the DJI Mavic Air 2 fly over people?
No. The DJI Mavic Air 2 should not be flown over people or congested areas.
Can the DJI Mavic Air 2 fly near airports?
Yes, but always check with the airport and air traffic control tower before flying within 5 miles of an airport.
What is DJI’s No Fly Zone feature?
DJI’s No Fly Zone feature restricts drones from entering certain airspace. The feature is locked by default and can be unlocked in the DJI GO 4 app. It can then be used to see more detail on the map or switch to satellite view. When flying within 5 miles of an airport, it will grey out and is unavailable for use.