DJI makes it easier to keep your drone out of no-fly zones
An app update keeps track of both permanent and temporary flying restrictions.
DJI's Geospatial Environment Online (GEO) software already kept pilots from flying its drones in "sensitive areas" and now the setup is getting a lot more useful. The UAV maker is making improvements to the system inside of its Go app that's used to control Phantom and Inspire drones. By doing so, DJI gives pilots easy access to its geofencing system that keeps airports, prisons and power plants permanently locked down in addition to temporary restrictions around special events like stadiums and "national security events."
The GEO system will also automatically update with temporary restrictions around wildfires so that drone pilots aren't interfering with firefighting aircraft. DJI announced in January that pilots would be able to unlock restricted areas with a verified account. This ensures that things like inspections and model aircraft shows can still take place, even in a typical no-fly zone. However, locations that could cause national security issues, like Washington, DC, will not be able to be unlocked.
The improved GEO system is now available inside the DJI GO app for iOS and Android for use on all Inspire models and the Phantom 4, Phantom 3 Professional and Phantom 3 Advanced drones. Owners will need to update the app as well as the firmware for the control and the drone itself to take advantage of the update.
