What consequences can there be when flying the Mavic 4 Pro in low-visibility conditions such as fog or mist?

[AdminForo]

What consequences can there be when flying the Mavic 4 Pro in low-visibility conditions such as fog or mist: Flying the DJI Mavic 4 Pro in low-visibility conditions, such as dense fog or mist, poses multiple risks to flight safety and the integrity of the drone. First, limited visibility drastically reduces the operator's ability to maintain visual contact with the drone (VLOS), a legal requirement in many jurisdictions. It also compromises the effectiveness of the visual and obstacle detection sensors, which rely on clear references to operate properly.

In foggy conditions, the front, rear, and side optical sensors may fail to interpret the environment, generating false detections or ignoring real obstacles. This can lead to collisions, especially during automated flight, indoor flight, or maneuvers near vertical structures. Moisture in the environment can also condense on the cameras and sensors, further impairing navigation and video recording capabilities.

Another major risk is that fog can affect the GPS positioning system, as multiple layers of cloud cover sometimes combine with satellite obstruction. If the system loses location accuracy, the RTH, hover, and waypoint functions are compromised. In some cases, the drone may deviate from the programmed course or land in an unintended location.

Therefore, it is recommended to completely avoid flying in foggy or low-visibility conditions. If flight is absolutely necessary, extreme measures should be taken, such as using sensor shields, monitoring the environment with a thermal camera (if available), and planning short, low-altitude flights. Even so, it is safest to postpone the operation until visual conditions are optimal to preserve both the equipment and the safety of people.