DJI Achieves Milestone with World’s First C1 Drone Certificate
Key Takeaways:
- DJI becomes the first company in the world to receive the C1 EU-type examination certificate under new European Drone Regulations.
- This certification enhances flight freedoms for Mavic 3 Series users, enabling operation in the A1 Open Category.
- The C1 certificate eliminates the need for the costly and elaborate A2 Remote Piloting License exam.
- DJI’s compliance with the new regulations demonstrates its commitment to ensuring safe drone operations across Europe.
On August 18, 2022, DJI, a renowned leader in the civilian drone and creative camera technology sector, achieved a remarkable milestone by being awarded the world’s first C1 EU-type examination certificate. This achievement falls under the newly established European Drone Regulations and stands as a testament to DJI’s ongoing commitment to adhering to evolving safety standards in the drone industry.
New Opportunities for Mavic 3 Series Users
The C1 certification specifically applies to the Mavic 3 series, requiring users to upgrade to firmware that meets C1 compliance. What does this mean for operators? More freedom! With the C1 certificate, users can now operate their drones within the A1 Open Category without the burden of passing the rigorous A2 “Remote Piloting License” exam. This streamlined process grants operators the ability to fly in areas that were previously restricted, eliminating a long administrative process that required special permissions.
Regulatory Compliance and Acknowledgment
Issued by TÜV Rheinland, an officially recognized notified body, the C1 certificate signifies DJI’s dedication and diligent efforts to synchronize its products with the new European Drone Regulation in a timely manner. The certification is valid throughout the European Economic Area (EEA), which includes the EU and additional countries such as Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Crucially, it encompasses all hardware and firmware updates for the current Mavic 3 series.
Understanding the C1 Certificate: Key Comparisons
With the new C1 certificate, there are significant advantages compared to operating the Mavic 3 series without certification. The following table outlines the contrasts in operating areas, operational restrictions, and pilot competence requirements with and without the C1 certificate:
| Operating Area | Operational Restrictions | Pilot Competence |
|---|---|---|
| With C1 Certificate (A1 Open Category) | No flying over uninvolved people; minimize if unavoidable, and no flying over assemblies of people. | Read the user manual; obtain A1/A3 “Proof of Competence” through an online theoretical exam without attempt limits. |
| Without C1 Certificate (A2 Open Category until 31 December 2023 or A3 afterwards) | No flying over uninvolved people; maintain a 50 m horizontal distance from people until the end of 2023; afterwards, fly at least 150 m from populated areas. | Read the user manual; obtain an A2 “Remote Piloting License” through an officially recognized theoretical exam, invoking fees for reattempts if failed. |
Additional Requirements for C1-Certified Drones
Furthermore, C1-certified drones adhering to C1-compliant firmware will need to implement mandatory changes following the European Drone Regulations:
- The Mavic 3 series will satisfy the new noise threshold of 83db.
- ActiveTrack Intelligent Flight Mode will enforce a distance of 50 m from people or objects. Beyond this threshold, the mode will be disabled.
- Auxiliary LEDs will adaptively switch on or off depending on environmental factors.
- LEDs on the drone’s front arms will flash by default while powered on.
These adjustments will take effect whenever any C1-certified DJI Mavic 3 series drone is flown within the EEA. The application process for acquiring the new C1 identification label is anticipated to commence in the fourth quarter of 2022, allowing users to apply for it voluntarily and at no cost. Requirements include providing the drone’s serial number and confirming the necessary firmware update. Additional information will be forthcoming as the process develops.
Once in motion, all upcoming firmware updates for the Mavic 3 series will include technical modifications mandated by the C1 certification and cannot be reversed. DJI’s commitment extends beyond the Mavic 3 series, with plans to ensure all current and future models comply with the new European Drone Regulation, working in concert with notified bodies to secure further drone certifications throughout the upcoming year.
