DJI Air 3S Takes Flight Safety to New Heights with Advanced Vision System

The DJI Air 3S introduces cutting-edge obstacle avoidance technology, featuring a comprehensive omnidirectional vision system that’s revolutionizing drone safety.

Advanced Sensing Technologies

The drone comes equipped with a sophisticated array of sensors including forward-facing LiDAR, omnidirectional vision systems, and 3D infrared sensing. This triple-layer protection helps pilots navigate complex environments with greater confidence. The system includes an auxiliary light that automatically activates in low-light conditions when flying below 16.4 feet (5 meters).

APAS 5.0: Smart Obstacle Avoidance

The Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems (APAS) feature works in both Normal and Cine modes, allowing the drone to “continue to respond to your commands and plan its path according to both control stick inputs and the flight environment.” What’s particularly impressive is the new Nifty mode, which enables “faster, smoother, and closer” flights near obstacles for better footage – though DJI warns this increases crash risk.

Real-World Limitations

The user manual is refreshingly honest about the system’s limitations. It warns that the vision system “cannot work properly” in several scenarios including:

• “Flying near monochrome surfaces”
• “Flying near highly reflective surfaces”
• “Flying near water or transparent surfaces”
• “Flying in areas with frequent and drastic lighting changes”

Safety First Approach

DJI emphasizes responsible flying, stating that “the sensing system only works in certain scenarios and cannot replace human control and judgment.” The system automatically activates in Normal and Cine modes when Obstacle Avoidance Action is set to Bypass or Brake.

DroneXL’s Take

The Air 3S’s advanced vision system represents a significant leap forward in drone technology. While other manufacturers are still working on basic obstacle avoidance, DJI has created a comprehensive system that works in nearly all directions and conditions. This technology isn’t just about preventing crashes – it’s about giving pilots the confidence to capture amazing footage while maintaining safety.

What do you think about DJI’s latest obstacle avoidance technology? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Photo courtesy of Drone Supremacy.