DJI Introduces Innovative Geofencing System for Safer Drone Operations

Key Takeaways:

• DJI launches the Geospatial Environment Online (GEO) geofencing system, offering real-time airspace updates.
• Drone operators can now receive live information on temporary flight restrictions related to emergencies, events, and sensitive areas.
• Verified DJI users will have the ability to unlock flights in certain restricted zones, enhancing operational flexibility.

San Jose, California, November 17, 2015 – Leading drone manufacturer DJI has unveiled a pioneering geofencing system that promises to revolutionize drone operation safety and flexibility. This new system, named Geospatial Environment Online (GEO), is designed to provide drone users with updated information regarding airspace restrictions, further enhancing the safety and accountability of drone flying.

The GEO system offers DJI drone operators current guidance on areas where flight may be restricted due to regulations or safety concerns. For the first time, users will have access to live information regarding temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) that arise from changing situations—such as wildfires, significant public events, or limited airspace due to VIP travel. Additionally, the system marks the introduction of restrictions surrounding sensitive locations like prisons and power plants, where drone operations may pose unique security issues beyond aviation.

Notably, the new system is designed to prevent drones from taking off or landing in high-risk areas by default. However, it offers a unique self-authorizing feature that allows users with verified DJI accounts to temporarily unlock specific restricted zones. This flexibility is especially beneficial for authorized applications, although flight in sensitive national-security locations, such as Washington, D.C., remains prohibited.

To utilize the unlock feature, users are required to verify their DJI account through a credit card, debit card, or mobile phone number. Importantly, DJI assures customers that this information will not be stored or collected, and the account verification is offered at no cost. This method creates a level of accountability for any flights that may attract scrutiny from authorities.

Brendan Schulman, DJI’s Vice President of Policy and Legal Affairs, expressed enthusiasm for the new system, stating, “DJI has been a frontrunner in geofencing technology, and with this update, we aim to strike the right balance between enhanced safety measures and the freedom for operators to make responsible decisions.” He added that their extensive experience with users has indicated that strict geofencing often does not align with the technology’s potential and actual usage scenarios.

The GEO system will first roll out in North America and Europe, while other regions can expect updates to existing airport data. However, they will continue to use the older “No Fly Zone” geofencing system until GEO is launched in each respective region.

The GEO system harnesses geospatial data provided by AirMap, a company based in Santa Monica, California, known for its expertise in airspace information. The newly updated mapping capabilities will be accessible in December through an upgrade of the DJI Go app and associated drone firmware.

Frequently Asked Questions

With the launch of the GEO system, DJI anticipates numerous questions and has listed key information for drone operators:

What is the GEO Information System?
The GEO system serves as a comprehensive geospatial information resource that equips drone operators with essential data for informed flying decisions. This includes up-to-date airspace details, a restriction notification system, and a self-authorizing capability for conditional flight, superseding DJI’s first-generation “No Fly Zone” technology introduced in 2013.

Which drones will utilize the DJI GEO system?
Initially, the system will be available for the Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 drones, with compatibility expected for future generations. Updates to the DJI Go app and firmware will facilitate access to these new features.

How will live updates function?
Operators will receive real-time information concerning temporary flight restrictions pertinent to their planned flight paths via the DJI Go app.

Will DJI provide specific aviation regulations?
It’s important to note that the GEO system is advisory only. Operators retain responsibility for verifying and adhering to applicable laws and regulations.

As DJI continues to engage with aviation authorities globally, it remains committed to advancing responsible drone operation through technological innovation.

For further inquiries, please contact:
Brendan Schulman, VP of Policy and Legal Affairs: Brendan.Schulman@dji.com
Adam Najberg, Director of Communications: Adam.Najberg@dji.com