DJI Adds Geofencing Flexibility for Enterprise Users

DJI has moved to improve the user experience of its enterprise users with improvements to its geofencing system. DJI said in a statement released today that “professional drone pilots with authorization to fly in sensitive locations can now use a streamlined application process”, which will provide them with unlocking codes within 30 minutes.

The decision reflects the difficult balance DJI has attempted to strike in the past, protecting sensitive locations with geofencing software that can often be a hindrance to enterprise users who have permission to fly. Unlocking airspace in a timely manner has not always been easy for enterprise users. And with more first responders and emergency services adopting DJI technology, the move to streamline that process is welcome.

The company said that the improvements are “carefully designed to help expand the beneficial uses of drones in sensitive areas that have been restricted in DJI’s geofencing system. While those areas will remain restricted to more casual drone pilots, DJI now staffs its global authorization team around the clock in order to process applications and provide unlocking codes quickly.”

“DJI now processes most requests within 30 minutes, though requests involving unusual circumstances or requiring additional documentation may need additional time,” said Michael Perry, Managing Director of North America at DJI. “By making it easier for authorized pilots to put drones to work in sensitive areas, DJI is once again showing why professional drone operators choose our aerial platforms for the most important tasks.”

Read more: DJI, Hackers, Conspiracy Theories and the Geofencing Controversy

How to unlock restricted zones with DJI

Professional drone pilots can apply to unlock restricted zones here. The portal asks pilots to enter information about their aircraft and controller, as well as any authorization documents supplied by the relevant authorities.

With DJI’s new update to the system, entererprise users can include multiple aircraft in a single unlocking request.

“DJI first implemented geofencing in 2013, and it is now established as an important tool to help our customers make thoughtful flight decisions, while also addressing legitimate concerns about safety and security by helping prevent unauthorized flights in the most sensitive locations,” said Brendan Schulman, Vice President of Policy & Legal Affairs at DJI.

“These improvements illustrate DJI’s ongoing commitment as the industry leader to continually improving the safety features we implemented years ago, while enabling beneficial applications for our technology.”