DJI has updated its geofencing system (GEO) for the majority of its consumer and enterprise drones in the United States. The update, effective January 13, has been implemented in the DJI Fly and DJI Pilot applications, replacing previous zone databases with official data from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Similar updates had already been introduced in the European Union.
With the new data, areas previously designated as “No-Fly Zones” are now classified as “Enhanced Warning Zones.” This change means operators will receive alerts when approaching FAA-controlled airspace but will retain the ability to pilot their drones within these areas.
To update, users simply need to connect to the internet and select “Update” when prompted by the FlySafe notification. This measure ensures compliance with FAA requirements and aligns with the principles of remote drone identification.
DJI first introduced the GEO system in 2013, a time when formal drone regulations were still in their infancy. The system was conceived as a voluntary initiative to enhance flight safety and prevent unintentional entry into restricted areas, such as airports or prisons.
Over the years, DJI has become a trailblazer in drone safety, introducing numerous innovations, including:
- Flight altitude limits and GPS-based geofencing to avoid hazardous locations.
- Autonomous return-to-home functionality in case of signal loss or low battery levels.
- Collision avoidance sensors to detect and prevent potential crashes.
- Remote identification technology for real-time drone monitoring.
Ironically, this update comes amidst growing rumors of an impending ban on DJI in the United States. The relaxation of certain restrictions may be seen as a strategic move to challenge local regulators while appeasing European authorities.
In 2024, the GEO update was rolled out in the United Kingdom and several EU countries, including Belgium, Germany, and France, with Estonia, Finland, and Luxembourg following in June. The remaining EU countries are expected to complete the transition to updated maps this month.
DJI reminds drone operators to adhere to local laws and regulations and to obtain proper permissions for flights within Enhanced Warning Zones through the FAA. More detailed information can be found on the FAA’s “No Drone Zone” resource.
