What precautions should be taken when taking off from unstable surfaces?

[AdminForo]

What precautions should be taken when taking off from unstable surfaces: Taking off the DJI Mavic 4 Pro from unstable surfaces poses a risk to both the safety of the aircraft and the quality of the flight. One of the main precautions is to avoid moving platforms, metallic surfaces, or surfaces with low visual contrast, as these can interfere with the down-vision sensors and cause errors in initial stabilization. Furthermore, if the drone fails to identify defined patterns on the ground, it may not correctly record the home point, which would affect critical functions such as return to home.

In these cases, it is best to use a portable takeoff platform with a visible texture, which provides a safe and predictable starting point for the sensors. Taking off from reflective surfaces such as car roofs, water, or glass should also be avoided, as these materials can distort the visual system's readings and cause instability in the first seconds of flight. If it is absolutely necessary to take off from an uneven surface, the pilot should be experienced and perform a gradual manual takeoff, ensuring the drone remains at a low altitude to check its stability before ascending.

Another key aspect is to verify that there are no magnetic interferences in the takeoff area, such as electrical cables or underground metal structures, as these can affect the operation of the drone's internal compass. This interference can cause the Mavic 4 Pro to fly in the wrong direction or misrecord its initial heading, complicating its behavior during automated functions such as RTH or FocusTrack. It is always preferable to perform an initial hover test at an altitude of one meter before initiating complex maneuvers.

Taking off from an unsuitable surface without taking these precautions can compromise the entire flight mission and jeopardize the integrity of the equipment. Therefore, knowing the sensor limitations, properly preparing the environment, and acting cautiously in the first few seconds are essential to ensure a safe operation. This technical knowledge makes the pilot a more aware operator, prepared to face less-than-ideal scenarios without compromising flight results or safety.