DJI Mini 4 Pro Firmware Update: Choose Once for 120m Altitude Limit or No C0 Class

[@IaninLondon]

Finally the 120m altitude limit in and out of the EU is resolved.... What will you do...? Here's the details: viewpoints.dji.com/blog/dji-mini-series-altitude-limit-eu

[@paulsuilven]

Does not apply to mini 2? Only 4, 3 and 2SE mentioned there.

[@DutchCamera]

Hi Ian, no need for me to remove the label. I will stick to the 120m altitude. Don't need a higher altitude. (flying my drone in the Netherlands)

[@DMProductions]

Ian you can’t be in the UK! It’s not raining ?!

[@IaninLondon]

Ha! Cheers Darren! We had torrential rain a few hours after filming this! And we're smack bang in the path of Storm Carain tonight.... Hope you're well buddy!

[@DMProductions]

@@IaninLondon haha I’m missing the California sun that’s for sure ! 😂

[@meddylad]

Thanks Ian. I live in Wales and can confirm that the 120m limit is not imposed on my Mini 4 Pro with the latest firmware

[@MrPurpleMonkeyToYou]

Rather late to this party! I'm based in UK and have just purchased a new mini 4 pro (march 2024) fly more pack. I was surprised to find a sealed pack of C1 stickers ( a small external C1 plus long thin black battery compartment stickers) and instructions on reregistering my drone within the documents. I was even more surprised to see that my RC2 also has an option to request DJI send me some C1 stickers too. Just thought I would share this.

[@ThisPersonDoesNotExists]

Ok but why should I worry about loosing C0? What are benefits of being compliant with C0?

[@bullDJI]

I love freedom and liberty. I have been flying DJI drones since 2017 according to my rules. I wouldn't mind the height limit of 120m, but the long-distance flight ban would affect me so much that I would end up with drones. But above the 120m limit is also good to have. If I fly and want to fly over a hill that is 170m high, for example, I won't fly over the hill where there is a beautiful castle to shoot... 120m is not enough. So I personally don't fly over the hill or behind the hill. I fly where there is open space, even with a forest, it doesn't matter. But no great elevation, maximum up to 50m. Still, I wish the drones were unlocked at min. 500m or even 800m As it is with Autel Evo. If the 120m height limit persists, then people won't buy drones that much. There will be fewer buyers. The drone is expensive! And to have a limitation - let the seller and the manufacturer shove the drone up their ass. Let them keep it - I'm not interested.

[@daz1969]

I won’t be updating my Mini 3 Pro, hopefully it stays as it is with no restrictions. I’ve never flown higher than 120m anyway and don’t intend to either. If it ain’t broke I’m not fixing it. Made the mistake of updating the Flysafe database only to find out I’ve been restricted in areas I’ve often flown and these areas are perfectly legal on drone assist & the CAA. Great explanation as always Ian 👍🏻

[@Crabneedspony]

New to this pass time but glad I’ve found a sensible advisor, thank you 👍

[@fransiefransmr]

So I bought a mini 4 pro in the EU and have the 120m height limit. When I go outside the EU is the limit gone an can I fly higher than the 120m?

[@stuartboys260]

Thanks Ian for the update will be getting the mini 4 pro in the new year but will be happy with the 120 meter restriction.

[@tripehound2]

This is the third video I’ve watched on the subject and up to now not fully understood all the details and implications. Than you Ian it is now crystal.

[@IaninLondon]

Ah, good to hear! Cheers

[@MKChase-uj9vx]

Clearest explanation I've seen so far. Thank you.

[@tobiassorrell9070]

I don't even own a drone anymore, yet I still find myself watching your content. Great again. P.S. any spare send them my way 😂😅.

[@jonathangoldsmith156]

Hi, Many thanks for that. I have the m4 pro and loving it... Off to Spain in a few weeks though.. So what are the downsides of removing the classification? does it void the refresh?

[@georgekelly1948]

“Go wisely and slowly. Those who rush, stumble and fall.” So wrote Shakespeare. Further he wrote, “The choices we make, dictate the lives we lead.” He could have said, “The choice we make, dictates the way we fly.” But you stepped in for the bard and said it for him. Here in Wisconsin, U.S.A. I do not have to make the choice you present here, and you have explained the situation well. Cheers.

[@IaninLondon]

Alas Poor George, I know you well. Yet who knows what choices lie in wait around yonder corners for you..... ;)

[@georgekelly1948]

@@IaninLondon Indeed, Prince Hamlet, indeed.

[@waddac2]

Brilliant matey...... So when I get my Mini 4 Pro...... Seems like I should not mess around with changing and spoiling things as I only fly UK anyway?

[@IaninLondon]

Hey Rich, yes, nothing for you to do if you're only flying in the UK

[@waddac2]

Cheers buddy 👍👍👍👍

[@jonwornham8674]

Hi Ian, a very informative video as always, thank you. I'm still flying a Mini 2 as my lightweight drone, and for a reason. I shoot a lot of 360 degree panoramas, using Litchi which enables me to shoot them using AEB, helping keep both sky and land correctly exposed, stitched externally using PtGui. I was considering upgrading to a Mini 4 but that would mean using the DJI Fly program for control, and DJI informed me that there is no way to shoot an AEB panorama, so sticking to the Mini 2 for now! I noticed your comment about how often would you want to fly over 120m above the launch site anyway, so I presume that you live in a fairly flat area. Where I live, in the Isle of Man, I can often be flying in extremely hilly locations (I'll attach a link to show) with steep slopes up from a launch site in a valley, so quite often increase my maximum height up to 500ft whilst still remaining well below the 120m above ground level (sorry about the mixed units, I fly heights in feet!). In the IOM we don't follow either EU or UK drone laws, our CAA looked at them several years ago and decided that they were way too complicated, so we have our own, much simpler regulations. No registration required, permits issued by the CAA for certain flights, e.g. I have them for flying within 5Km of the airport, in 'congested areas', at night and with reduced separation distances. Sub 250g drones are exempted from almost all of the restrictions though and specifically exempted in the primary legislation. I wonder if DJI will recognise us a a separate country from the UK? Here's the link to one of my regular flying spots: kuula.co/share/Nzkxb?logo=1&card=1&info=0&logosize=64&fs=1&vr=1&zoom=1&autorotate=0.08&thumbs=1&margin=5

[@IaninLondon]

I'm amazed DJI recognises the UK as non-EU, so I think it unlikely they will treat IoM as a separate country, although I'm guessing you don't have any geo zones there in their database apart from the airport...

[@jonwornham8674]

Just checked on the FlySafe map and the IOM is indeed listed as a separate country. The only DJI restrictions are around the airport, quite annoying in fact as their restricted airspace is a lot more than the legal limitations set by the IOM Govt! However, I believe that DJI just have a standard pattern that they apply to airports worldwide. Fortunately, based on my IOM CAA 'Permissions', I have a DJI unlock code so it's a minor inconvenience. The only permanent drone restricted zone on the island, that applies to sub 250g drones also, is over the prison at Jurby but is absent from the DJI FlySafe map! We also have big restrictions when the motorcycle races (TT & MGP) are on here, they also apply to sub 250g drones and are published in NOTAMs. The judiciary take infringements very seriously, one guy was caught this year and got a ridiculously huge fine and had his drone destroyed. I can't remember the amount offhand, but it was way more than that imposed on two people who walked on the course whilst it was closed and after having been told by marshals that it was illegal, in fact I think that they just got a caution!

[@jdmedia2784]

Thank you, crystal clear. I won't be taking the plunge, i want to continue to fly in towns and cities, obviously important to me. I'll be keeping the C0 label. 👍🏻

[@kamikazekaos]

Hell no way ! I wud definitely remove restrictions, c0 or no not makes no different to me as nobody will ever know this ridiculous complicated over the top regulation

[@RaymondCalloway]

Here is where I say, thank God I am in the States. Up until May of this year I had the DJI Mini 1 and when visiting my sister in southeastern Alaska I flew my drone up to its ceiling of slightly over 1600 feet. It was absolutely fantastic, but I know I can't go to those heights everywhere. Since May I now have the Mini 3 Pro but I have kept at the 400 foot height range in most situations and where it was allowed went up too 500 feet, but at least, for now, there is no height restriction except where necessary. Thank you as always Ian for your information.

[@IaninLondon]

There's pros and cons everywhere. We can fly commercially or at night without any extra training required. But at least DJI are keeping things normal for those people unaffected by the EASA rules...

[@RaymondCalloway]

@@IaninLondon You are correct and I'm glad DJI is on top of things. It must be very difficult for them to be a worldwide drone manufacturer and have to deal with different jurisdictions and different requirements around the world.

[@mrfenandes]

Nice to have a video of someone using foresight of possible changes to the law in the future. It's been my main concern but a lot of videos seem to say "there is no downside" emphatically. There's always a possible downside. I'll keep mine on for now but I can see why people would not.

[@JonnoDoesStuff]

So, as a UK citizen that regularly flies my drone in Europe, I need to actually travel to Europe prior to 2024 in order to remove the restriction. What a mess

[@buzzindrones]

Ian’s drone advice is always spot on and precise and informative . I shall also keep the sticker on my drone like you . Thank you Ian .

[@paulsuilven]

Wonder if the drone hack limit removal will work with c0 rated mini?

[@Radiusxe]

Difference between have label or not? For Drones manufactured before 2024 and weight under 250g is no difference.

[@xoio]

So being now 2024, if i buy a Mini 4 in the UK.... Am i stuffed to being forced to 120m regardless?

[@YTBraN]

Great vid Ian and thanks for your explanation. But one thing I've noticed in yours and similar vids is there is still a bit of ambiguity. So slightly confused, I have these questions. 1) removing the sticker means losing C0 status both in the EU and UK. So for a sub-250g drone eg.mini 4 pro, what does this mean? You can't fly within 50m of people or over people or residential/industrial buildings anymore? 2) does it mean needing to get a flyer ID as well as having an operators ID (only operators ID needed for sub-250g drones currently) 3) So if sticker is removed and then CAA decided to reclassify, what does this exactly mean? Does it mean new regulations again for your sub-250g drone? I'm just confused as removing the sticker and classification seems a no-brainer as nothing really changes with regards to any rules or regulations for flying a sub-250g drone (apart from new max. altitude in EU)....or does it? Am I missing something?

[@Axyl2k]

I really appreciate your content, man. Thanks for the useful info and updates. 👍

[@IaninLondon]

Cheers :)

[@grumpyclark]

As always, brilliant, thanks Ian Can't wait to see your new studio 😊

[@IaninLondon]

Oh, now I have expectations to live up to..... :( ;)

[@grumpyclark]

@IaninLondon Indeed you do! 😉

[@lindsayheyes925]

Thanks for the clearest explanation so far.

[@andybg1972]

Hope to see you in Malta one day and buy you a Cisk as thank you for your info :)

[@frankfernandes5]

Hello from Australia 🦘! Very well explained video !

[@paulgrep3193]

Bit of a cludge fix by DJI in my opinion- so their C0 drones are restrained to fly no more than 120m from the take-off point, rather than the legal limit of 120m drone height over the terrain? I wonder why if the limit can be enabled/disabled by the drone being geo-aware- the software cannot work out the height of the ground below the drone from Google maps and use an accurate above ground height....

[@IaninLondon]

I have often argued this point..... Very true

[@peterevans6086]

@paulgrep3193 - Exactly my thoughts too.

[@stewartprice8881]

Perfect information .That was exactly the info I was looking for Thankyou and that is why I am subscribed to your channel

[@allegriach]

Thanks for the news!

[@Thomas_1979]

Thank you Ian ,Great channel with great videos

[@Rcworldshop]

Happy you explained it so clearly.

[@shiftey8]

For me the bigger question is will I be able to use the Plus Battery? Now I get a warning message that it's not compatible with C0 classification, but it still allows me to fly. What happens after 1 JAN 2024?

[@elwingy]

If you declassify your Mini 4 Pro before 31/12/23 it essentially turns into a legacy drone correct? If so, and with Mini 4 Pro being

[@martinking4476]

I am still very happy with my mini 3 pro but as always Ian very informative information.

[@DrMrSam]

If you remove the lable and certification, what stops you flying in towns? Other than breaking the law, what actually stops you? Does the drone itself not allow you to fly it into these areas?

[@jont6431]

So will the drone be classed as a C1 drone now?. I have a mini 3 pro and live in Spain and fly in a mountainous regions and use the above ground level. We will still be flying a C1 drone in an A1 category. Would it be best to update and then remove the restriction, opinions welcome

[@timoryan4441]

Really helpful video Ian. Great advice and information. Keep at it.

[@IaninLondon]

Thanks Tim!

[@robzaphy]

So basically im in the UK same as you, can I just drag the bar to set a higher limit than 120m?

[@krzysztofkurczewski]

Hi Ian,I'm going this July to Mauritius with my Mini 4,I can't find if there are the same 120 m altitude restrictions as in UE,please help.Many thanks

[@JeRiMarAV]

Great video, as ever! What if you remove the restriction now, and you use your care refresh in 2024 in order to get a New drone? I guess you are stuck with the limit then.....

[@SimonFletcher-d1u]

Hi Ian,could you do another post on taking your drone to Europe,always wanted take mine on holiday but unsure on packing for airport and any regulations.

[@IaninLondon]

Here you go... kzbin.info/www/bejne/jpPJk4eeqcxkhbs

[@robinguysharman]

I live in a mountainous region of southern Spain. I often take off from a high point and fly down the mountainside significantly lower than the Home Point. This has got me wondering what, if anything, will happen if I fly more than 120m below the HP - I'll give it a go and let you know!

[@orangeblack1285]

I wondered that myself, but I have no mountains near by to test it out. Have you tried it yet? ^^

[@robinguysharman]

@@orangeblack1285 - Not tried it yet, indeed been so busy with olive harvest that I'd forgotten about it - thanks for reminding me! I'll try this weekend from the Sanctuary where I can fly down at least 200 metres without being too distant horizontally.

[@valinicoara7216]

I want some advice from you please I have a DJI mini 4 Pro, for which I did not update the software precisely for this height limit of 120 m. I bought it 2 months ago and the height limit is 500 m What to do ?? Should I update and use this hack or not update and continue to use the C0 class ace that is on the drone?? Thank you very much

[@IaninLondon]

You can update without issue. In the EU it will be limited to 500m. In the EU, just 120m.

[@orangeblack1285]

6:23 But the drone would still be in the A1open category if the label was removed before 31st of december 2023. So you can still fly it in towns and build areas, no? I got my mini 4 pro today and its charging right now, ready to replace my old air 1 after all those years. Right now I don't see a downside besides that "they might change their mind later and make lagacy drones worse" in the next 5 or so years.

[@SimplyScotlandPhotography]

I wish other Slavering Tubers would take a leaf out of your book and deliver their content without the 💤 You as usual say it how it is without the need to turn to "The chat" To see if we are still awake. Brilliant as usual Ian👍👏👏

[@IaninLondon]

Cheers 🤠🤠🤠

[@neilbirkinshaw818]

Well explained thanks, i was getting confused. If i do get the mini 4 I'll be leaving the sticker on as I'm uk 🇬🇧👍

[@scuttsproductions]

Great informative video as always Ian. I still have my Mini 2 Drone and would love to upgrade to the Mini 4 Pro, as and when I have the money to do so. What is the point of removing the C0 sticker/label to fly your drone higher, when the "legal" limit is 120m or 400 ft. The only time I can see anyone wanting to do this is if they were in the Lake or Peak District, Yorkhire, Scotland or Wales. As just incase or supposing you had or needed to increase altitude for whatever reason. Then that I could see would be the only reason that you would want or need to increase the altitude. Also, where or what website do you use to register your drone when you take it on holiday in the EU. From Lewis in Southport.

[@IaninLondon]

Cyprus is great for EASA registration as it's €20 for 3 years

[@scuttsproductions]

@@IaninLondon Thanks Ian 🙂👍

[@wayneharry8696]

Thanks for the info. Random question. If If were to fly above 120m in the UK and something bad happened to the drone, would I still be covered by DJI care?

[@IaninLondon]

I think there's a clause on flying legally

[@everdaylens]

does dji refresh still work if you remove the sticker and limitation?

[@ptaylor5014]

Ok got most of what you just said and DJI seem to have cleared up the confusion, when i spoke to an agent recently she said it will affect us in the UK too!, but not sure about the bit you mentioned that by removing the sticker and declassifying the drone "will have some negative things"? why will you not go this route Ian? is there any dretrimental effect form doing so?, sorry to sound dumb but i have never flown my drone abroad yet.

[@IaninLondon]

DJI seem to still think the UK is lumped in with EASA rules sometimes I think, but the mavic 3 doesn't have its speed limited in the UK whilst it is limited to 19 m/s in the EU. As I say in the vid, currently no negative points on losing the C0 status in the UK, but who knows what is around the corner....

[@mpw2081]

does that apply to drones bought now

[@MrStubbyd]

Very informative as ever Ian but I had to LOL at "Europe or Malta" as Malta is in Europe. I too visit often as some of my family lives there.

[@karenmouselady]

Thanks for the information Ian you say this also applies to the mini 3 pro but we don't have a sticker to remove and what happens if we don't do the update? For me I stick to the limit any way. Keep the information coming👍👍

[@IaninLondon]

Yep; fair point.... Unsure what you'd be losing if you did this for the Mini 2 or 3....

[@Zzues]

Does removing the C0 label make it so an operator needs to apply for a higher level of license and/or online training certificate?

[@effendi360]

If I buy drone now will I still be able to remove c0 label and declassify drone after Jan 2024 ?

[@east.suffolkdronephotography]

Excellent video and nicely researched, Ian! Sorted ✅

[@IaninLondon]

Thanks :)

[@krzysztofkurczewski]

And one more question ,now is 2024,does the mini4 bought after 1st of Jan 2024 have fixed factory 120 m limit altitude even in UK or it is the same as in bought before?Many thanks

[@IaninLondon]

UK is still up to 500m

[@pdtech4524]

I'd keep the C0 status as you say the CAA are notorious for changing the rules and moving the goal posts, constantly, so I think it's highly likely in future the C rating system will be used in the UK Plus the 120m restriction is hardly a restriction, we can only fly that high anyway, I rarely fly higher than tree top level 35-40m at most. If in the rare instance you want to fly up and over a 500ft hill, just walk halfway up or launch from the top, easy no issues.👍 The one we have to be more concerned about is the range limit hard wired into our drones, that will be next. So for a Mini drone, expect 75m to100m at most⚠️😲😳

[@ptaylor5014]

I rarely fly obove 120m from take off point as most of my flights are around 40-60m high, but i want to keep the 500m option open! somtimes i fly fly up a steep hill for excample that is inaccessible by foot, so i need to be able to move that slider to above 120m, while still flying under 120m from the earth's surface and this is perfectly legal too, i want to keep this option in the same way you say you don't want the mini drones limited to 75m/100m range!

[@IaninLondon]

This idea of needing to see the drone's orientation is total BS.... you only need to know how to go downwards if there's an approaching aircraft... Let's hope you're wrong :)

[@pdtech4524]

@@IaninLondon Absolutely! The 'visually knowing the orientation' rule is just nonesense, it's completely unnecessary and makes flying a Mini class drone beyond around 100m technically not possible⚠️ It's almost like the CAA have to make up rules as they go along just to justify their regulatory status! So far they've just made the rules far too complex, far too over restrictive and they've just confused everyone in the process, to the point it seems they don't understand their own rules sometimes, especially when they make ammendments that contradict themselves. If it was to do with increasing safety or reducing risk, then fair play but when there is already negligible risk and a proven safety record, it's just pointless.

[@pdtech4524]

@@ptaylor5014 The 120m altitude limit should be AGL from the drone to the surface below, NOT the launch point.

[@TrainLovers-TL69]

when you are in a situation where there is a 200m hill between your drone and you at RTH... GOOD LUCK!

[@iandrones]

Well explained, Ian! Thanks 👍

[@andraskarsai]

Do you know if there is a way to update to the firmware prior to this? I'm trying to figure out which version I can go up to without being hard limited to 120m in the EU with my Mini 4 Pro.

[@jonathanpillinger6227]

Hi Ian. Great explanation thanks. I have a M3P and an M4P so my thinking is to keep the C0 and it’s limitations on the M4P and keep the M3P unlimited without a C0 label. Best of both worlds. One Question…. If I apply the FW upgrade to both aircraft today (I’m in the UK) will it leave both with unlimited height for the time being, and will the M4P then switch to 120m limit automatically on 1st Jan or does the 120m limit apply immediately? Oh and a PS…. I also have an A2S with 5 batteries that I seldom fly now and wonder if this has any useful resale value? 👍

[@IaninLondon]

It will only be restricted if you're flying in Europe.

[@jonathanpillinger6227]

Thanks Ian

[@jonathanpillinger6227]

Thanks Ian

[@Dave-sb4iy]

The 120m ceiling applies immediately in the EU after the update.

[@6r4metroman]

I'm keeping C0...

[@JM_2019]

Small correction: if you remove the C1 label in the EU before Dec 31, you will not loose any permissions because then the Mini 4 falls under an exception rule that allows drones less than 250g to fly in scenario A1 (in towns, over people, etc.) unlimited. However, If you remove it after Dec 31, you cannot fly in the open category at all anymore. Pretty confusing…

[@IaninLondon]

This is the same conclusion I got to after reading more on the EASA website; so it actually makes sense to do this procedure before the end of the year.....

[@BMWorks_NL]

@@IaninLondon please make this a sticky! This is KEY to do it before 31-12-2023!!

[@rodsnyder6020]

I guess you mean the C0 label on the mini drones? Yes you will have the A1 forever as it is a sub 250 g drone. However DJI wrote in that short information part at the bottom that if you have removed the C0 sticker and revoke the C0 status before 31st of Dec 2023 (and get the A1 status) you will still have the chance to get back to the C-Label classification. Just not into C0 but into C1. And as far as I know it is pretty similar to C0 with the major difference being that you have to have the small pilots license and need to save your pilot ID to the drone instead. Also I am pretty convinced, that there will be some adaptions in the law regarding older drones above 250 g to be in A3 only (f.e. transitional arrangement for drones between 500g and 2kg).

[@JM_2019]

@@rodsnyder6020 The main difference between C0 and C1 is that C1 requires remote ID, that means the position of you, your drone and the flight path is transmitted to the outside world. This is why the pilot ID needs to be saved in the controller. Also you are not allowed to fly intentionally over people with C1 drones. On the other hand side you will then probably be allowed to fly the plus batteries. which gives you longer flight times. Not sure if DJI will start to sell them in the EU then.

[@danielsegui4286]

⁠@@IaninLondon could you kindly put the link where you read that please🙏🏽

[@RJ-Creations]

I just removed the label when I bought it. Thought it wasn’t important to keep it on. Never thought about that it was supposed to stay on the drone. Otherwise they would printed it directly on the drone. However, I live in the Netherlands and without this update I can put the limit on 500 meter. So maybe an option not to update?

[@IaninLondon]

As I recall, the netherlands is extremely flat.... Do you need that extra limit? :)

[@RJ-Creations]

@@IaninLondon we do have some Hills here in the province of Limburg. 😀 but point taken. Where I live it’s flat everywhere. However, when I travel to neighbour countries I just want the option available to set it higher.

[@Mesatallic]

Any reason why drones aren’t Geo aware, applying the limit on the fly. i.e. You can’t fly above 120m in built up areas but can over a mountain?

[@NBWLONDON]

Hi Ian what I don’t understand does this 120 calculate base on sea level or the take off point? The reason if we launch in mountain, do we still have 120 above where we are?

[@IaninLondon]

It's based on take off point

[@PN-80]

Is the Mini 4 pro worth buying or could the freedom of the sub 250g drones be restricted in the near future for the UK? Would really appreciate any advice.

[@IaninLondon]

Who knows what's around the corner; CAA always changing their minds and are currently looking at more restrictions for small drones thanks to dickhead auditors buzzing offices and police stations....

[@obnoxiouspedant]

​@@IaninLondonffs, as per usual, a minority of bellends with no common sense make things harder for the majority

[@SaroLoBue]

OK now i'm confused, I have a mini 3 pro, no C0 label, and let's say in January 2024 I buy a mini 4 pro, with C0 label, will I be able to use both drones in the EU under the same rules? or will be any difference between with label and without? apart for the 120m height limitation in dji software, i'm talking in terms of EASA legislation

[@IaninLondon]

Actually no; I may need to do another video on this as EASA state unclassified drones with a MTOM of less than 250 gms can be flown like C0 drones.

[@azmayeenmahtab1574]

so if i buy a drone in the UK(London) in 2024, is my drone going to have the 120m limt?

[@IaninLondon]

No. Outside EU stays at 500m

[@yoshy2628]

I have took my limit out, I will use the drone in mountains anyway.

[@del5606]

120 metres no problem for me as I never get anywhere near that, even when shooting golf courses. I use my drone as a low altitude aerial tripod and normally shoot at top window height and above head height with occasional higher aerials. For me the higher you go, the less detail. Besides, it makes sense to have a restricted altitude level for drones

[@TrainLovers-TL69]

Golf courses are probably not in the mountains, right? and if they probably don't have a height difference of 120m, but there are certainly many people filming in the mountains, then 120m FROM THE STARTING POSITION IS A VERY STUPID LIMIT (are you aware that the law stipulates 120m above the ground, not 120m from the ground at take-off as DJI patrols...)

[@orangeblack1285]

I would 100% keep the label in that case. If you plan on flying up a mountain side on the other hand, you can reach 120 meters pretty fast in some areas. And then you'll run into the issue that the drone might be only a meter above ground but 120 m from starting point, blocking you from a position from where you would like to take a video or picture.

[@orangeblack1285]

Aren't those two different requirements? @@TrainLovers-TL69 I think the starting point one is a requirement to the manufacturer to get a C0 label. The 120 meter above ground is a pilot requirement. But yea, it's stupid. What if I fly away from a steep mountain. Suddenly I'm 5 meter above starting point but 500 meters from actual ground level.

[@WanderlustAdventures8]

How to remove on rc2 controller the eu 120m limit if I'm in UK? I can't see the option in the remote please

[@johnnymac26]

well explained mate will stick to my balloon with a go pro lol

[@kaczorefx]

Wait, so the problem of flying uphill is still not solved, yes? In order to fly up a mountain I have to loose the C0 certification forever?

[@IaninLondon]

Correct; it's solved by losing the C0 certification, but under EASA rules, it's probably not too bad for unclassified models

[@DrMrSam]

Anyone know if you'll get the 'Declassification Prompt' in Ireland? As its an EU country and abides by the EASA. So I assume it'll work there?

[@exmoorbaydrones]

Just took delivery of my new M4pro today. Spent an age updating the RC Firmware and was expecting to see a 120m limit on the RC when done, but instead saw a 500m limit. So, pretty happy with that and now you've explained exactly what it all means to us in the UK, I am very happy NOT to remove the C0 sticker and all that entails should I venture across the Channel in the future. Why can't the CAA have someone like you to just explain in simple terms to the average Guy with a Drone, all their Over-complicated Bullshit?!! Great Videos by the way, and looking forward to seeing your new Surroundings.

[@IaninLondon]

But if the CAA made simple rules, I'd have no purpose.... ;)

[@reiener]

Unfortunately, what Lanin says is not entirely correct.

[@Rcworldshop]

​@@reienerso.... what is true then ?

[@Kirbjo05]

so can I still go ahead with the firmware update for UK

[@IaninLondon]

Yes; absolutely

[@ibbsters6212]

see this is what confused me, i spoke to dji customer service personal 3 separate times and each time they said UK WILL be restricted on jan 1st and informed me about the c0 label removal. i mention about uk no longer being in the European union anymore. after a few mins ( most likely consulting the textbook..or google lol ) they came back with UK has to abide by ESAS and so WILL be restricted on jan 1st... but every uk based content creator all say thats wrong. are DJI giving me the wrong infomation every time? i was waiting for ian`s video before i take a plunge and buy the mini 4...ian`s videos are always explaned simple enough for casuals like me to understand

[@IaninLondon]

Well, in a way, this latest update proves that you'll have the choice and won't be restricted after 1st jan 2024.... Cheers for the good words :)

[@ibbsters6212]

@@IaninLondon im a total casual flyer so everything went over my head ( no pun intended )

[@reiener]

Unfortunately, what Lanin says is not entirely correct. Look at my post above.

[@stephenbroadhurst7653]

I own a mini 2 drone and I haven’t flown it in the last 2 years so there’s no way you would call me an experienced operator. So forgive me if I’m getting this wrong but you are not allowed to fly a drone out of unaided visual range, a mini 4 pro drone is quite small and at 120 meters away you would not see it. Now say your walking up a mountain while flying your drone, could you not just update the home point as you go.

[@countleppe5774]

I Would Keep The CO Marking On This Drone To Allow Me To Fly It Within CO Classification Rules If I Took It Into The EU Countries. I Do Not Want To Be Restricted In Flying It Around And About In The EU Or Any Place Else.

[@garyhill9723]

Curious about the other minis as they don’t have C0 label anyway.

[@geoffreywareing8858]

I'm not sure what benefit c0 classification has anyway for sub 250 drones bought before 2024. As I understand it, these drones will have the same privileges as the c0 classified drones (i.e. can fly in A1 & A3 space), according to the EASA site; or am I missing something.

[@IaninLondon]

Correct; according to their website, unclassified drones will have the same rights, so you could argue it's better to update and remove the sticker now if you're in Europe

[@reiener]

that's exactly how it is

[@geoffreywareing8858]

@@IaninLondon Thanks for that👍😃

[@geoffreywareing8858]

@@reiener 👍

[@GamezMasterNL]

@IaninLondon If you remove the C0 label of a drone you bought before jan 1st 2024, your drone will be classed as a legacy sub 250gr drone. Because of it being legacy AND it's weight, you can do all the same things with it as a C0 classed drone, without having the height limitation. You are also not forced to classify the drone ever. In other words, what you said about not being able to fly in towns and such does not apply to the Mini 4 Pro if you remove the label before Jan 1st 2024.

[@IaninLondon]

You're right; I need to do a follow up video on this point.....

[@peterevans6086]

Exactly! I live in France and have made the change on my recently purchased Mini 4 Pro. It now has 'legacy' status, just as my 18 month old Mini 3 Pro has.

[@nigelprice1831]

But do we have to travel to Europe to see the message to remove the height restriction if we live in the UK before ist Jan 2023?

[@Kayechasr]

this is my main question. Does that mean I have to book a flight to somewhere in Europe just to remove a sticker? @@nigelprice1831

@@peterevans6086 Hey man, so if I understood correctly, if I'm in France the best way to go would be to remove the C0 label before 2024, that means I can still use it as a C0 drone but just not have the 120 limitation ?

[@davy2266]

i have stopped updating anything for mini 2.its perfect . dont fix it.

[@reiener]

There is no obligation to reclassify the drone. Before deactivation in 2024, it is considered a legacy drone, allowing you to enjoy all the benefits of a C0 classification and the 500-meter limit. Furthermore, there is the option to update the drone to a C1 certification by removing the label before 2024, which is no longer possible after January 1st if it's already C0 certified. This is undoubtedly an excellent development for us!

[@IaninLondon]

This is the same conclusion I came to after filming this video and reading more through the easa website.... So ideally, if you're in the EU, you SHOULD go through the procedure to make the drone unclassified. Before the end of this year....

[@BMWorks_NL]

@@IaninLondon make a extra video! as the info is unclear to people relative new to drones (also selling the drone will be more valuable in mountain rich countries

[@jesserik2000]

I don't really understand. I actually have my c1/c3 license. Would love to trade my M3 for a m4p, doing this won't void the DJI care and warranty? And we only wouldn't be able to fly above people?

[@reiener]

@@jesserik2000 Hi if you do it now there is no difference to the M3, you can just buy the M4P and have the C0 removed this year. There is no problem with people, only with crowds it is strictly forbidden

[@femiomomo4467]

My mini 1 will not connect to the drone with this update

[@stooriefitdrones]

So it is ok to fly above 400' up the side of a mountain or building say, in the UK when obeying usual rules. However how many folk still have visual line of sight at 400' never mind at a much higher altitude!!!

[@JoeyBlogs007]

So drones have an altimeter in them ???

[@IaninLondon]

No, they calculate their height based on gps in relation to the take off point....

[@lynsmith1096]

Nice 1 Ian

[@IaninLondon]

Thanks 👍

[@willemsterk5048]

I live in the Netherlands, below sea level. I own a mini 3 pro and a mini 4 pro. I took the mini 3 pro to its maximum altitude of 120 meters and back home again. When I wanted to go to 120 meters again, the controller showed that I could go up to 500 meters, without any further action whatsoever on my side. More or less the same was for the '4'. At first the maximum limit was 120 meters. After I upgraded the software I could take this drone up to 500 meters too. No questions asked so to speak. The only message I got on the controller if I'd agree to this change. Which I did. No stickers to remove. Nothing of that sort. Of course it is possible with a new upgrade that the changes could be undone.

[@BMWorks_NL]

that will happen with the next update or reboot of the controller (if you have the RC-N2) the limit will come back

[@3goldfinger]

To save lives, they need speed control on cars, the main killer, not 120m limit on small f5ones, which has never killed anyone

[@CLLUK]

I understood that the 120m height restriction was referenced to the closest point on the earth. So you could increase height as you ascend up a mountain. If for some reason this was investigated, then the flight log would reveal the corresponding GNSS data to determine if this height requirement was adhered to.

[@IaninLondon]

That's the law, but EASA have also stipulated relative to take off point for the purposes of C0 classification. Which is kind of stupid imho....

[@yoshy2628]

You ascend up a mountain but you have to land your drone and take off again, otherwise after 120m limit you cannot ascend anymore. The drone will use point of take of as measure.

[@Yotengri]

I live in an Eu country and 1.01.2024 Mini 4 pro 120 limit can't be removed only if you apply for C1 stickers.If you apply for C1 stickers there are other hidden restrictions that they do not say about so i recomend do not buy this drone.I returned mine.

[@Winglad]

If you remove the restriction ‘under definition’ your drone may fall under C1 classification.