Introduction
This pre-flight checklist is a guide to help you ensure a safe and successful flight when using DroneDeploy. Before leaving for the field and again before taking off, use this list to check your equipment and environment.
Before you leave for the field
Equipment check
- Functioning drone: Inspect your drone for damage and confirm it is ready to fly. Check all drone batteries for good condition.
- Charged remote controller and batteries: Ensure your remote controller is fully charged. Bring one or two spare batteries for longer flights.
- Charged mobile device with current DroneDeploy and DJI apps: Confirm your mobile device is fully charged. Ensure both the DroneDeploy and DJI apps are up to date. You can find the latest version of DroneDeploy [link to latest DroneDeploy version]. Check the Supported Devices Page to confirm your mobile device is supported.
- Current firmware: Make sure the firmware on your drone is updated to the latest version for the smoothest operation possible. Review Upgrading Firmware on DJI for firmware-related questions.
- SD card with adequate space for images: Always format your SD card before leaving and ensure you have enough storage space for your images. You can reformat your SD card within the drone settings on your remote controller.
- USB cable for your mobile phone or tablet: You need this cable to connect your mobile device or tablet to the drone and remote controller.
- Extra propellers: Carry additional propellers in case any are damaged during your flight.
Flight planning and connectivity
- Field connectivity: If you are flying in an area without cell phone service, perform desktop planning of your flight path before entering the field. You can use resources like OpenSignal to review data coverage if you are not familiar with the area.
- Airspace clearance: Visit our in-app LAANC Authorization to review any airspace restrictions to ensure the area you will be flying is clear for drone use.
When you are in the field (before takeoff)
Confirm conditions
- Weather conditions: Use websites like Weather.com [link to Weather.com] to confirm that the weather is suitable for flight. Avoid flying your drone if high winds, low clouds, extreme temperatures, or precipitation are present.
- Take-off area is clear: The take-off area should be clear of people and cars. Take off away from power lines and buildings, as they can interfere with the drone's compass. Confirm that conditions in the field are safe for take-off and landing.
Troubleshooting in the field
If you are having trouble in the field, try the following steps:
- Restart all devices.
- Unplug and re-plug the USB cable upon failure indication.
- Toggle the mode switch on the controller.
- Check the DJI app:
- Multiple Flight Mode = On
- Beginner Mode = Off
- Test using another mobile device.
Additional reading
- What you need to know about the FAA's Remote Identification (ID) requirements
- Safety considerations and avoiding flyaways
- LAANC approval process utilizing Airbus UTM in DroneDeploy
- How do I change the settings on my M3T to capture only RGB?
V2.2