Is the DJI Air 3 waterproof? This is a question that gets asked for many drones, especially DJI drones, because of their popularity. The Air 3 was released earlier this year and has proven to be very popular with hobbyists and professionals alike. It’s a fantastic drone that comes equipped with many advanced features, including a dual camera system and an omnidirectional obstacle avoidance system. However, is it waterproof? Can you fly it in the rain, and what should you do if it falls in the water? This article will answer all these questions and provide you with clear guidance on whether you can operate the DJI Air 3 in wet conditions.
Is The DJI Air 3 Waterproof?
The DJI Air 3 comes with a robust design, but like all other DJI consumer drones, it is not waterproof. DJI advises users to not operate the Air 3 drone in the rain, snow, fog, hail and extreme weather.
However, its build quality is very good, with tight seams and high-quality materials, and it probably does have some water resistance like many other DJI drones, such as the Mini 2 and Air 2S.
Related: Best Waterproof Drones
IP Rating and What It Means
The DJI Air 3 doesn’t come with an official IP (Ingress Protection) rating; it’s essential to understand what such a rating signifies. An IP rating indicates the level of protection against both solids (like dust) and liquids. Without this rating, it’s risky to expose the drone to water intentionally.
Limitations of the DJI Air 3 Water Resistance
While the DJI Air 3 might survive a brief encounter with light rain or mist (as shown in the video below), it’s not designed to be submerged or exposed to heavy rainfall. The risk? Potential damage to the internal components or, worse, a mid-flight failure.
So, it is best advised to avoid flying the Air 3 in any type of wet conditions, but if you need to fly in the rain, make sure to follow the guidelines at the end of this article.
Watch the video and see how the DJI Air performs in strong winds and light rain.
Wetsuit For The DJI Air 3
If you live in an area that sees a lot of rain or you would like to operate your drone in wet conditions, you should consider purchasing a wet suit for the DJI Air 3.
The Phantom Rain wet suit is a must-have accessory for DJI Air 3 drone owners who desire to fly in the rain. This wet suit, available in various vibrant colours, is quick and easy to install and allows users to fly their drone in heavy rain.
Is It Worth the Risk?
Flying the DJI Air 3 in wet conditions is a risk. While it may handle light moisture, it’s not designed to be waterproof. For those who want to operate their drone in wet conditions, make sure to take extra precautions like purchasing a wet suit for your drone and a waterproof carry case.
Overview of DJI Air 3
The DJI Air 3 is one of the latest additions to DJI’s impressive lineup of drones. Known for its advanced dual camera system and flight features, it has become a favourite among both hobbyists and professionals.
In terms of design, it is compact and sleek, housing a unique dual-camera system. This system comprises a 1/1.3-inch-CMOS wide-angle camera and a 1/1.3-inch-CMOS 3x medium tele-camera, offering consistent image quality and versatile imaging possibilities. The wide-angle camera captures expansive landscapes, while the medium tele-camera excels at framing subjects as bold focal points. Both cameras are capable of capturing 48MP photos that are rich in detail, and support 4K/60fps HDR video recording without cropping, resulting in breathtaking and highly accurate video footage.
One of the standout features of the DJI Air 3 is its 46 minutes of flight time, which is a huge increase over the Air 2S.
The video transmission range of the Air 3 is 20km, thanks to the enhanced O4 HD video transmission system.
The drone also comes with a host of intelligent features such as an omnidirectional obstacle avoidance system, intelligent video recording modes like Mastershots, Quickshots and Hyperlapse and FocusTrack subject tracking technology.
In summary, the DJI Air 3 is a remarkable camera drone with a sleek design, exceptional camera features, exceptional flight time, impressive video transmission range, and a wealth of intelligent capabilities, making it an ideal choice for capturing breathtaking aerial footage.
What To Do If Your DJI Air 3 Falls in Water & Gets Wet
If your DJI Air 3 falls into water, it’s essential to act quickly and follow the right steps to maximise the chances of recovery. Here’s a brief guide on what to do:
Safety First
- Do not enter dangerous waters or put yourself at risk to retrieve a drone.
- If the drone is in a public area, be cautious of bystanders and ensure no one else is at risk.
- Retrieve the Drone
- Turn off the drone immediately if it’s still powered on.
- Remove the battery as soon as you can. This is crucial because the battery can short-circuit when wet, which can cause further damage.
- Hold the drone upside down to let any trapped water drain out.
- Gently shake the drone to remove any additional water.
Do Not Turn It On
- Resist the temptation to power on the drone to see if it works. This can cause a short circuit and permanent damage.
- Dry the Drone
- Use a cloth or towel to pat down the drone and remove as much water as possible.
- Place the drone in a bag of uncooked rice or use silica gel packets. These materials can help absorb moisture. Leave it for at least 48 hours.
- Alternatively, you can use a fan or place the drone in a well-ventilated area to aid the drying process. Avoid using a hairdryer or any direct heat source, as this can damage the drone’s components.
Inspect for Damage
- After you’re certain the drone is dry, inspect it for any visible damage. Pay close attention to the motors, camera, and sensors.
- Check the Battery
- The battery is particularly sensitive to water. If it was submerged or got wet, it’s best to replace it. Using a damaged battery can be hazardous.
Test the Drone
- Once everything is dry and inspected, power on the drone in a safe, open area. Monitor its behaviour closely. If it behaves erratically or you notice any issues, turn it off immediately.
- Consider Professional Help
- If you’re unsure about the drone’s condition or if it’s not functioning correctly after drying, consider seeking assistance from a professional drone repair service.
To avoid accidents, consider investing in waterproof accessories. I have already mentioned the Phantom Rain wetsuit for the DJI Air 3, they also have a rescue jacket/float that users can attach to the drone that will stop it from being submerged in water.
Always be cautious when flying near bodies of water, and be aware of environmental factors like wind that can push your drone off course.
Remember, even if you follow all these steps, there’s no guarantee that your drone will be fully functional again. Water damage can be unpredictable, and some components might be permanently damaged. Always prioritise safety and consider the drone’s warranty or insurance options for such incidents.
Final Thoughts
The DJI Air 3 is one of the most advanced consumer drones, but it is not waterproof. While it may withstand minor encounters with moisture, it’s always good to stay on the safe side and avoid flying in wet weather. Always prioritise the safety of your equipment and avoid flying in adverse weather conditions.
FAQs
Is the DJI Air 3 fully waterproof?
No, the DJI Air 3 is not a waterproof drone.
Can I fly the DJI Air 3 in the rain?
It’s not advisable. While it might handle light drizzles, heavy rain can damage the drone. If you want to fly the Air 3 in the rain, consider investing in waterproof accessories like a wetsuit and rescue jacket for the drone.
Does the DJI Air 3 have an IP rating?
The DJI Air 3 does not have an official IP rating.
Are there any waterproof drones on the market?
Yes, there are drones specifically designed to be waterproof, like the drones from SwellPro. DJI have waterproof drones like these from the Matrice series, but they are for commercial applications. Click here to see the best waterproof drones currently on the market.
