DJI Mini 4 Pro: A High-Flying Controversy Bound by the 120-Meter Ceiling?

In a world where drones have become more than mere recreational devices, DJI, a leading name in the industry, recently launched its latest model – the DJI Mini 4 Pro. And while innovations should ideally be met with applause, this was not the case for DJI’s new release.
The 120-Meter Controversy
Fresh out of the box, early users of the DJI Mini 4 Pro made a startling discovery: the drone was capped at a flying height of 120 meters from the take-off point. In many regions, this might not sound like a major hurdle.
But picture this explains Wiebe de Jager from DroneWatch: you’re in rugged, mountainous terrain, wanting to launch from a valley and fly seamlessly alongside the imposing cliff faces. At 120 meters, you’ve hit your ceiling, and any obstacle taller becomes a problem.
Responding to the outcry, DJI quickly released a software update. Just like other DJI drones, the maximum flight altitude of the Mini 4 Pro can now be set up to 500 meters. A sigh of relief for many.
EU Regulations Weigh In
But here’s the catch: the European aviation authorities, focusing on maintaining the sanctity of their airspace, set a directive. Drones tagged with a C0-label, which includes the DJI Mini 4 Pro, are restricted to 120 meters above their take-off point, explains De Jager. The EU regulation 2019/945 states the maximum altitude above the take-off point is limited to 120 m. Whether in valleys or alongside mountains, the rule is clear.

What Lies Ahead for DJI Mini 4 Pro Users?
While DJI currently enjoys some leniency, allowing users to set their altitude limits, a looming date might change that. Post January 1, 2024, the DJI Mini 4 Pro, which is marketed as C0-compliant, might once again be chained by an unalterable software update, reinstating the 120-meter altitude restriction.
A tricky situation for drone enthusiasts? Definitely. Your only workaround, according to DroneWatch to ensure your takeoff point is as elevated as possible. While this method might give you a few extra meters, flying further from the peak will quickly breach the 120 meters above ground level.
There’s a silver lining for DJI Mini 2 or Mini 3 (Pro) users. You could choose to overlook any retrofit upgrades aiming to make the drone C0-compliant. Post-2024, drones weighing under 250 grams can operate in Open subcategory A1 without a Cx-label. In an era of rapid technological growth, it seems the European skies are not so limitless after all.
Discover more from DroneXL.co
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD
Proposed legislation threatens your ability to use drones for fun, work, and safety. The Drone Advocacy Alliance is fighting to ensure your voice is heard in these critical policy discussions.Join us and tell your elected officials to protect your right to fly.
Get your Part 107 Certificate
Pass the Part 107 test and take to the skies with the Pilot Institute. We have helped thousands of people become airplane and commercial drone pilots. Our courses are designed by industry experts to help you pass FAA tests and achieve your dreams.

Copyright © DroneXL.co 2025. All rights reserved. The content, images, and intellectual property on this website are protected by copyright law. Reproduction or distribution of any material without prior written permission from DroneXL.co is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact us first. DroneXL.co is a proud partner of the Drone Advocacy Alliance. Be sure to check out DroneXL's sister site, EVXL.co, for all the latest news on electric vehicles.
FTC: DroneXL.co is an Amazon Associate and uses affiliate links that can generate income from qualifying purchases. We do not sell, share, rent out, or spam your email.
Is there any updated info on this since 2024 in the USA? This would be reason enough to sway me away from the 4.