PreFlight now brings direct flight control of DJI drones to a PC or Mac, combining live video, keyboard controls, virtual sticks and mouse interaction in a web browser. It works over local WiFi or over the Internet through FlightDeck.
For us, this is a significant milestone. It changes both the experience of flying and the possibilities for where the aircraft can be operated.
A different kind of precision
Keyboard control makes it possible to hold a consistent directional input, combine movements and release one axis while maintaining another. There is no need to keep a physical stick at precisely the same position throughout a manoeuvre.
In our flight testing, this has made certain movements easier to maintain and repeat than with physical sticks. Paired with a larger live view and direct access to camera, gimbal and zoom controls, it brings a different level of control to careful positioning, inspection and camera work.
The familiar flight screen remains visible, with its menus and controls accessible through mouse clicks and drags.
From recreational flying to remote operations
For consumers and professional pilots, this opens another way to experience and operate the aircraft. For inspection crews and enterprise teams, it brings flight control onto the computer where footage is being examined and decisions are being made. Law enforcement and emergency responders can use the same capability to support operations from a separate working location.
There is also a practical benefit in hazardous environments, including defence applications: remote operation can allow the pilot to remain farther from an exposed aircraft launch location. Equipment may still be at risk, but reducing the need for personnel to remain beside it is a meaningful possibility.
DJI Smart Remotes maintain the connection to the aircraft. PreFlight makes the flight controls and live screen accessible from the computer, while FlightDeck extends that access over the Internet.
Available now
PC & Mac remote control is available now through PreFlight for DJI Smart Remotes, alongside its existing connectivity, aircraft configuration and customization tools.
We are proud of what it makes possible, and look forward to seeing how pilots and teams put it to work.