This video should be a requirement for both new and experienced drone pilots. It's highly educational, and the detailed explanations effectively convey the message. The teaching style is also commendable.
As someone starting out in drone flying that was so useful. It also explains why when I was practicing flying low over grass the mini kept going lower. I kept correcting it but was baffled why it was happening. Now I know. Thanks Rick.
Never experienced a fly away with my Air 2S. (Knock on wood) But, operating various sized boats on different bodies of water over the years, I’ve developed a great respect and fear of the wind. I simply don’t put my drone up or take my boat out passed the breakwater, if I think the wind might cause me problems. I do both activities to relax and have fun so on windy days I’ll simply stay home or grab my metal detector and go to the park to find some lost jewelry or pocket change. I’m a fair weather flyer. Having said that, great informative video full of good information.
Again, seems like crappy design. If there is a known issue with VIO conflicting with GPS over water at low altitudes then the system should disable VIO. There should be an option for the pilot to select over water flight which takes this into account.
Could the pilot have handled it better with knowledge and previous experience? Yes, but the system is poorly designed which is the cause. Did they not test it over water?
Justin Roysdon Guy, water is a given. Just like swimming in the ocean if you get far out from the beach it will take you out to the ocean. It’s the waves and wind the make the water more powerful.
I wish I had seen this video before going to Aruba last October. I was flying low over the water, which was very still, and suddenly the drone started to descend. I was so stunned by this that I literally froze and watched as my drone went down into the water. Thanks for the excellent info.
Drone Valley I'm a New Mavic Mini owner & I haven't flown it yet & I have been watching as many Videos as I can To learn about the Mini & how the Best way To Fly it ! Thanks for such a Great Video !
This video should be required watching for all new pilots, and old timers as well. I personally have had one fly away (when I first got my drone and had no idea what I was doing) , but I have also since then had to step in and help with 3 different flyaways with friends. They panicked and in two cases I was able to grab their controllers and w/exception of pointing the camera down (since all were well within vlos) pretty much handled as you suggested and managed to regain control and fly home. Pretty scary stuff. All three of these flyaways were I believe EM/radio interference so hopefully you will broach that topic next. What I did notice with all 3 of them, was the EM/radio interference may have caused the flyaway, but just turning the craft and changing elevation down even 20ft. seemed to restore the connection. Where we fly is a hotspot for EM and radio frequencies with 3 airports nearby, plus Ames NASA Moffet field, plus a lot of RC aircraft in the air as well. This is a carve out zone for RC aircraft that sits in the middle of a lot of radio frequencies so, you do have to pay attention. Great vid! Cheers.
One of the best and helpful videos I've watched. I try to be extra careful when it comes to wind and I have the Evo1. I still get nervous when flying and have to build up confidence. So far I've never had any problems, but have to learn to relax more and enjoy the hobby. I only know that any day you go home with your drone. IS A GOOD DAY. Thanks for the posting of this video.
Chasbro Chas Same here you have a way more expensive drone then I do but I know my drone can go further I’ve seen plenty TH-cam videos about that. I still fly my drone as long as I can still physically see it that’s as far as I go LOL I’ve only had it for about five days now but it’s funny I thought I was the only one now I know I’m not LOL as long as I can land my drone and go home you’re right it’s a gd day 😂👍🏼
@@TAZ0300 For the amount of times I fly. I sometimes wonder if I should of spent that much money for my drone. Still it is awesome. Going to check out your site as it's fun to watch other peoples videos. Stay well Taz.
I’ve was scared at first also. Just make sure you do a pre flight check and be sure everything’s working properly. Don’t take off on or near metal or high electric objects. I had “one” fly away back in 2015. After that I was so scared to fly I thought I was done with drones. I’m glad I didn’t..... I have hundreds of hours flying and iam confident each and every flight Uav forescast is the best advise I can give for starters it will give you great wind readings at different altitudes etc. Hope that helps.
Thanks for the video, I am a new Mavic air 2 owner. (love it), and after flying it in some wind I feel I can trust it to a point. But I want spend plenty of time on the basics. When you were talking about pointing the camera straight down to check for obstacles (great idea). here is what I learned about the mavic air 2 to pass along. You can set up the grid lines to include an x in the middle, then face the camera down. use the x to position the drone over a landing area, then left stick down right on the spot the x marked. a fast way to get the gimbal looking straight down (double tap the left function key). gimbal back forward, double tap the left function button again. Keep up the videos:')
This is the first video I've seen of yours. Have to say I saw an impressive amount of professionalism and knowledge packed into a video. Great job and thanks 👍
Rick I wish everyone would watch you. You teach me every time I watch. I brag I know a real drone genius. Hahaha I don't even know you. Had my mini 2 over 2 weeks and haven't got out of the yard yet. Went 20 feet up once and it moved about 3 feet and I didn't tell it to so down I came. Rick I'm 73 years old love the drone but can't afford to lose it. And it's my first one.
Great information and could not agree with Free California more ! I had to learn the expensive way when my first Evo flew away and I panicked where if I had stayed calm I would have retrieved my drone. After the incident I analyzed what had happened or actually after tromping through the woods for hours looking for my $1000 dollar drone tracking the map but never found it. What freaked me out was the mechanics of the drone were completely reversed and I had no control what so ever but it did eventually go into a hover about 1/2 a mile from the launch but as I lowered the camera I saw it was directly over a fairly busy road and I could see traffic . That freaked me out so I managed to gain enough control to get it over the woods where it should have crashed as the battery life was drained battling heavy heavy winds with a freak storm that rolled in. Went back a few times and scoured the woods but never found it so I accepted it as a very very expensive lesson and ordered a new one which I have been flying since. What I could have done was to simply get into my truck and drive the 1 minute to where it was hovering and set the drone down in the line of sight safely. Certainly there are many things to be aware of prior to and during the flight of your drone and this is some great information that every drone operator should read . Thanks for the information
You are spot on when it comes to keeping calm when it comes to a flyaway. Had my first one last night I got a little to high high and a good old Kansas wind gust sent it right into a tree. Major factors were pilot error had it to close to the tree trying to fly around it and race back down the street. My saving grace’s were that I had the guards on and as soon as it went into the tree I hit the Emergency stop button and got a good visual on its orientation and flew it out and landed it. Then spent the next 45 mins cleaning the green leaf spray off of the drone and having my wife and neighbor laugh at me because I got cocky.
I’m a drone newbie but I don’t fly a DJI Mavic (Mini). My chosen weapon of choice is a Holystone HS720e which I have owned since Xmas. All I can say is thank you from the bottom of my heart for steering me and my drone in the right direction. ❤️😎❤️
Rick, I broke into droning with a Snaptain S5C and it was a good move before I bought my Mavic Mini. My first day outside with the Mini I had 3 accidents in the cemetery. Into a tree, into a granite wall and cut my thumb when I tried landing on my hand. That put me in my place and since then I've only had 2 accidents, one as recently as 2 days ago when I flew backward into a tree because I didn't have eyes on! My grandaughter saved the day by finding the quad on the ground under the tree (I did use Find My Drone). I know it must've fallen 20 feet onto the thick grass and is OK! I am subscribed to many channels but I get the most out of Drone Valley. Being an engineer myself I have the same perspective and pretty much everything you say is clear and enlightening. You speak quickly but very efficiently in your composition. It's like speed reading. Watching your altitude is a huge part of flying and makes complete sense. The first thing I do is take off straight up while yawing until I have a clear view in all directions. I note my altitude and add 20 ft. to RTH altitude. It is working for me so far. Your videos are excellent. Even my wife watches with me and she has surprisingly been very supportive of my new hobby. My only other hobby is guitar but I haven't been spending as much time with it lately. Anyway thanks for doing what you do. You're so right about how you become attached to this, like a pet that has feelings. Before I launch I think ok Mini, you better come back and in one piece or I'll really be upset. I haven't named it yet but yeah, that's coming. Thanks!
Wow...very informative video. Another example of the truth of the old proverb ...To the man (pilot) who can't (won't) read... (or watch you tube videos)....the world is a closed book. You have no doubt saved this pilot from a crash or a flyaway. P.S. I was planning on a very low flyover our community pond.....will now stay above 25'. Thank you Rick
VIO......BEWARE.I was flying 1 metre above a lake with very still water when Marvin decided to go and land it,I was to slow to cancel the land command and in he went.I'm trying the bury in rice trick to try and dry out the moisture,it worked on my phone,which doesn't swim either,heres hoping.Your tip about changing BOTH propellers and screws now make sense,I only changed the one and used the same screws,but now I can't remember which one I changed,DOH.Keep up with these vodieos Rick they really helped with my Mini.
You are a breath of fresh air and appreciate the lack of ego. You can’t have analytical thinking with an ego. Well done. Very helpful information which I hope I never have to use, but if I do, I’m going to pull this out of my memory bank. Thank you for your videos and sharing your experience!
I’m new at this hobby and today I received a Mavic Mini. I plan to get it up in the air tomorrow. In preparation, I’ve been watching your videos which I find very educational on this field. I’ve already subscribed and want to thank you for your knowledge and will to share it.
I really appreciate your videos. Gives me more confidence that I can handle whatever comes my way. I got my Mavic Mini in February, but I have only flown it once. When I flew it from my backyard, all I kept thinking was there goes $400.00 if you screw up. I will keep watching your videos, so I can gain the confidence I need to just have fun. Thanks.
Seeing this kind of video reminds me why I subscribed to your channel some time ago. They are always informative and help me, as the Boy Scouts say, 'be prepared'. I just bought my first drone (the Mavic Air 2) and this video will help keep my blood pressure down! Keep up the great work!
Yesterday I had the exact “wind episode “. Low battery 30 and up mph wind , dusk, couldn’t determine direction because drone was not responding “hazy conditions “. Needless to say DJI phantom 4 pro was telling me “wind warning” for quite a while. I was however “lucky “ that I was at the RC club field with no one else around. I had the “good sense” to set the phantom down and took a walk to recover. Lesson learned .... High wind screws everything up. Drone seemed to be leaving because of high winds. I also decided I need a “sun shade” because I couldn’t get a good look thru the camera because of glare on small tablet screen. You are correct “it really put me in a panic”. Several Lessons learned.... Nice video, Thanks. Dan
Thank you very much for the information. Very very good information. Will make sure to keep the drone above 25ft over still ware or snow and bring it down to lower elevation when there is wind warning..
Hi Rick, another Brilliant video, I have learnt so much about drone flying from your videos,your a top guy, gained so much confidence from you, I have a mavic pro 2 and getting to grips with it.A college at work sold me his dji spark, so now can do more flying. Thanks
Thanks for an excellent tutorial! As a newbie to drones I greatly appreciate this sort of content. I look forward to the additional vids you plan on this topic. Also, please consider doing other vids that deal with other issues drone pilots might encounter. There's plenty of equipment reviews, but few that I've found on the nuances of flying drones. This vid impressed me enough that I liked, subscribed, and turned on notifications - thanks again!
Pretty new to drone flying, and just watched a video in which there was a drone fly away. I went frantically searching for what caused them to do that. So glad I found you.
I orded my Mavic Mini yesterday, i can't wait to get it. Drone Valley is a good youtube channel to watch before you get your drone so you know what to do, and not to.
Just purchased the Mavic mini 2 and looking at videos for flying tips. Your knowledge and advice has been greatly appreciated, thanks for taking the time.🇬🇧👍
Great advice, Rick. I have found the UAV Forecast app (although not perfect) does give me some basis of wind & gust speed from 33 AGL to 400' AGL.. But as you point out nothing can replace practical experience, follow alerts/instructions on controller, and a contingency plan with good old common sense. Above all "DO NOT PANIC!"
Glad it helped! I love flying and knowing that others are enjoying these clips make putting them together worth it. Take your time and it does get easier with practice. Flyaways are super rare so worry less and have fun! Rick
I lightly hit the side of my shed with the rear prop on mine. It still flew fine that day with a very tiny chip in the prop. I was surprised the next day when I took it up it said it had a motor error. It told me to land it and it would beep and the motor with the bad prop would vibrate. It did it and I seen the chip in the prop. I was amazed that it could tell the difference in the prop given how tiny the damage was. I changed the props on that motor and it was fine. No problems at all. This Mavic Mini is just amazing for how tiny it is.
All good points thanks. I took my Mavic pro out today in very windy conditions, just to learn how much it can handle, and it was very good. It was a coastal area, so plenty of beach to ditch and recover, and very good practice. I prefer my P4 in marginal conditions, it is a beast with a 4 cell battery, and fights against a reasonable wind, and as per your dog ref, I am very comfortable with it. Good point about never actuate RTH if it is the wind. Been flying for 5 years and never had a fly away, and only minor altercations with trees which deliberately extend their branches to snag you.
Enjoyed the video as I'm a new pilot learning the basics of flying my Parrot Anafi and how to avoid crashes, not to mention flyaways. I'm saving it to review periodically. Just became a subscriber.
I am seriously considering investment in a Mavic Mini 2. I do have concerns about losing the drone, because I am in Europe, so will be flying around mountains (the Alps) and I can't afford to throw away my money. Yet, I'm after those shots of the mountain landscapes. Seeking the right balance of risk and knowledge to reduce them. Your videos are helping me substantially, by providing the technical understanding I will need while flying. Thank you very much for your explanations!
Hey. This was me last year. I lost my tello drone to fly away (yes it was user error). I did replace it with Mavic Mini. I am so happy with the Mini so, I am good. I’ll be taking a course on flying a drone soon. Thanks for the content and hard work.
I just got the Mavic mini for my son, and he is loving it. I appreciate your info. On this video I don’t have a drone of my own and this is my sons first and just doing some research this video actually covered very important information I am going to share with my son. Thanks.
Had a lightweight drone get taken away by the wind while flying at 100’ but I did drop altitude and bring it back by sheer luck. Thanks for this information! Always entertaining and worth watching! Love your products as well!
"please practice" wise words. I had my M2 flying backwards, not forward at low speed. Instinctively I dropped the altitude and it slowly creeped back. Did not think of switching to sport mode as you suggested. Also like your idea of landing at a point you recognize if you run out of juice.
Great video - I nearly lost my mini within the first 3 days due to high winds. I now understand why the drone was acting funny about 2m above pond. Keep those videos coming
I enjoyed your informative video. i’ve been wanting to get a drone for sometime and have been doing a little due diligence about the DJI Mavic mini. Then I saw a review from PC mag that complained about connectivity issues and that causing me to become a little leery of the Mini. The good info you provided has me back open to considering the money. Thanks for the info
Just bought the Mavic Mini and received it last Wednesday, only have about 20 minutes flying . Will sure watch the winds before flying and will practice to lower down and return . And will avoid low flying over water or elsewhere . Thanks for your great explanation you do a great job ! Just sub also 😉👍 H&S 👩❤️👨🌈 From Boisbriand Québec Canada 🇨🇦
Rick, this is a REALLY informative video and a lot of common sense that will hopefully if it ever happens to me I will remember "Rick's advice". Many thanks for explaining in simple language in all your videos. Stay safe during this difficult time we are all experiencing.
I’m new to drones. Mavic Mini is my first drone and only had 2 weeks at this point. After a week flying with no issues I was feeling pretty good. Then I had a flyaway over water trying to film a covered bridge. Scared me because it went down and I missed the river by about a foot. I do have video of it. What’s what weird about it is as soon as it was over the water about 15ft above the surface the drone just went down, It wasn’t even responding to the control stick even though I was pushing straight up. I’m just glad I was saved. Lesson learned. Thank You for this video! Also to resist hitting that return to home in high winds. That’s something I’ve been tempted to do when I see the warning.
Glad it was helpful! I love flying and anything I can do to help other safely enjoy the hobby (and hold onto their drones) is worth the effort. Happy Flying!
I’m brand new to flying a drone (DJI Mini 2). I’ve been watching a ton of TH-cam videos. Good stuff, but an awful lot of the same info. I’ve just watched 2 of your videos and have learned things I’ve heard nowhere else. Great info on watching the horizon on the attitude indicator, and the competing guidance between GPS and IVO?, I think it was, that takes over below 20 feet. I just subscribed and an excited to see more. Thanks for the “on point” detail.
Very good, I never knew about VIO. I was always afraid to fly over water, but now I know what's going on! Not long ago I was flying with a friend. It was his first time. I showed him the map option on the DJI Fly App, and the RTH option of his Mini 2. Thanks to this brief knowledge he was able to bring the drone home after he lost sight of it! Still, after 3 years of droning flying it always give a certain 'tension', but that makes you alert, I think!
Very nice and informative. Thanks for breaking down the difference between environment and terrain. Im taking my FAA 107 before too long and, soaking up all of this info like a sponge.
Thank you. Now I understand why my MINI suddenly dropped when I was flying over a blackberry bush in my 2nd attempt at flying a drone. I had to replace all of my propellers. Thanks for clearing up this mystery.
I had my Mini do a wondering off side ways or a fly away last week, No wind but over tree's, I did everything before setting off with the compass wind check ect, And its first time it did a fly away, All i can think off that the down censers got confuses with been over tree's and drifted off with out control it, In end i had to fight it by controlling it back home and it was like skating on a ice ring flying it back. Its not just the wind at times it can be the bottom censers that can get confused or fall at times too.
I love the brevity and clarity of this man for this channel. I've been cool with drones for a bit, flown a few, it's nice. Finally bought my Mavic Mini. Had error 40002 gimbal issues out the box, but it's working now. Can't wait to see what I can do with this drone. Thanks for this channel and the way you present information, I love it.
You get a sub! Your videos are extremely helpful and helped me get an idea on what's important to know before getting some amazing shots. Just bought a mini 2 SE and it's been great!
Closest encounter I had to a fly away with when I flew under power lines. I immediately lost all control. And couldn't locate my drone. So I tried to keep a clear head, and just let go of the controls to see if the Drone would just stay where it was. I was able to see where I was at and landed the Drone. And safely recovered it. Lesson learned about flying around power lines!
Great advice. Love my mavic mini. I live in AZ. On very windy days, it usually won’t let me go very high. But it does ok in slight wind and gives excellent warnings when it is windy at higher levels. And I never will fly down wind without at least 75% battery due to the fear of not enough power to fly back into the wind.
Exactly, I see people try to fly it all the way back with critical battery and crash. I'm thinking, that power tower, landmark, land it there, get in the car and go get the drone. Better than a disastrous crash. Great advice.
This video is very informative especially for a new flyer like me. I never knew the limits of a Mavic Mini and the high flyaway statistics happening out there, until I saw this video. This gives me head knowledge of what to watch out for while flying my Mavic Mini. Thanks so much!
I truly appreciate your honesty and detail. Have not moved up to mavric line or above yet. However the knowledge you share is key to me becoming a better pilot. I'll keep all the information you shared as I consider my next purchase.
What a great video. I'm a new Mini owner, trying to educate myself as much as possible to be a responsible and capable pilot, taking baby steps with the hobby. This is a really valuable resource for tips on how to make good decisions before and during flight, and how to keep your head when the situation goes pear-shaped. Many thanks for sharing!
Thanks Rick and yeah I leaned about the Mavic Air and wind real quick. Great little drone but after needing to put down a mile out and going to get it I sold it. Every flight I alway pick out "what if" spots to land the drone and they've come in pretty handy. Good video Rick
thanks for the video , im on my 3rd mini , crashed two since feb 2020. totalled one and one is still on the roof of my apartment, #3 is safe and sound. no crashes since.Ive set a personal range record at 5.23 miles over lake toledo bend in texas ...gimme a shout . looking forward to hearing from you. im working on my 107.
Awesome video - thanks for putting this together. I haven't had a flyaway yet - but am going to be around water and want to study up on what happens. The explanation was awesome.
Enjoy your presentations so much! So concise and well rehearsed. Now please consider phone issues: my smart phone has shut down and even dropped the app. So with a blank screen I was glad I had line of sight to return home. I had to land, shut down, and reboot app and the equipment. Then I was flying again but sinced learned I needed to change phones or better yet, fly with the DJI smart controller. Thanks always for your videos!
Very clear and concise information, as usual, Rick. I've been 'humming and harring' for two months or more, the reason being that yes.I'd love a Mavic Mini but... I'm 84 and not sure about spending that much money and then maybe losing it or doing something stupid. I hope they are still selling them in another couple of months' time! Thanks for all the great videos.
Thank You again *Rick* 4 Another GR8 Video!... I Have Learned Sooo MUCH from U Regarding My Mavic Air2 I Really Like All your videos!!! PLEASE Keep Up All Of YOUR GREAT Work!
The first flight on my Mini yesterday after only having flown a Pro before. I thought I'd try out RTH. On the way up to its 20m RTH height the wind got hold and away it went. Of course it went down wind and over the water spinning in circles. Eventually it recovered which was probably once it reduced height and wind speed reduced. At least now I know why it did this and can restore some confidence.
Great video Rick, especially the part about the bottom sensors "VIO "and the gps controlling the drone. Take the mini out at night in a dark area push takeoff and when it rises to the 6 foot hover spot , you better raiise-up fast so the gps takes over, or the mini will take off on you without proper lighting
This video should be a requirement for both new and experienced drone pilots. It's highly educational, and the detailed explanations effectively convey the message. The teaching style is also commendable.
As someone starting out in drone flying that was so useful. It also explains why when I was practicing flying low over grass the mini kept going lower. I kept correcting it but was baffled why it was happening. Now I know. Thanks Rick.
Watching another good piece of content from your channel. Very relevant information again! Like.
Never experienced a fly away with my Air 2S. (Knock on wood) But, operating various sized boats on different bodies of water over the years, I’ve developed a great respect and fear of the wind. I simply don’t put my drone up or take my boat out passed the breakwater, if I think the wind might cause me problems. I do both activities to relax and have fun so on windy days I’ll simply stay home or grab my metal detector and go to the park to find some lost jewelry or pocket change. I’m a fair weather flyer. Having said that, great informative video full of good information.
Thank you for what you said about flying over water.
Again, seems like crappy design. If there is a known issue with VIO conflicting with GPS over water at low altitudes then the system should disable VIO. There should be an option for the pilot to select over water flight which takes this into account.
Could the pilot have handled it better with knowledge and previous experience? Yes, but the system is poorly designed which is the cause. Did they not test it over water?
@@The_Summit_Wanderer I'm still fighting the temptation to fly over the farm pond.
Justin Roysdon Guy, water is a given. Just like swimming in the ocean if you get far out from the beach it will take you out to the ocean. It’s the waves and wind the make the water more powerful.
Mini Gps Locater' & - Zip Tie a Painted 'Sealed' Nerf Football To The Top of Your Drone if Over Water ' No Sinky! -😶
I wish I had seen this video before going to Aruba last October. I was flying low over the water, which was very still, and suddenly the drone started to descend. I was so stunned by this that I literally froze and watched as my drone went down into the water. Thanks for the excellent info.
Drone Valley I'm a New Mavic Mini owner & I haven't flown it yet & I have been watching as many Videos as I can To learn about the Mini & how the Best way To Fly it ! Thanks for such a Great Video !
I haven't got mine yet but thanks to Rick and others on TH-cam I'm learning so I won't have a flyaway 🙂
This was very helpful thank you bro
This video should be required watching for all new pilots, and old timers as well. I personally have had one fly away (when I first got my drone and had no idea what I was doing) , but I have also since then had to step in and help with 3 different flyaways with friends. They panicked and in two cases I was able to grab their controllers and w/exception of pointing the camera down (since all were well within vlos) pretty much handled as you suggested and managed to regain control and fly home. Pretty scary stuff. All three of these flyaways were I believe EM/radio interference so hopefully you will broach that topic next. What I did notice with all 3 of them, was the EM/radio interference may have caused the flyaway, but just turning the craft and changing elevation down even 20ft. seemed to restore the connection. Where we fly is a hotspot for EM and radio frequencies with 3 airports nearby, plus Ames NASA Moffet field, plus a lot of RC aircraft in the air as well. This is a carve out zone for RC aircraft that sits in the middle of a lot of radio frequencies so, you do have to pay attention. Great vid! Cheers.
I think the bottom censers can be the blame too if there not working right and just drift off.
I'm surprised it doesn't just return to hone
I always keep the drone within visual line of sight and rarely below 25% battery capacity. That way, many problems are avoided. (25% on landing).
One of the best and helpful videos I've watched. I try to be extra careful when it comes to wind and I have the Evo1. I still get nervous when flying and have to build up confidence. So far I've never had any problems, but have to learn to relax more and enjoy the hobby. I only know that any day you go home with your drone. IS A GOOD DAY. Thanks for the posting of this video.
Yup ,Chasbro Chas ,me too I try to be very careful now cause these things ain't cheap.
Chasbro Chas
Same here you have a way more expensive drone then I do but I know my drone can go further I’ve seen plenty TH-cam videos about that. I still fly my drone as long as I can still physically see it that’s as far as I go LOL I’ve only had it for about five days now but it’s funny I thought I was the only one now I know I’m not LOL as long as I can land my drone and go home you’re right it’s a gd day 😂👍🏼
@@TAZ0300 For the amount of times I fly. I sometimes wonder if I should of spent that much money for my drone. Still it is awesome. Going to check out your site as it's fun to watch other peoples videos. Stay well Taz.
I’ve was scared at first also. Just make sure you do a pre flight check and be sure everything’s working properly. Don’t take off on or near metal or high electric objects. I had “one” fly away back in 2015. After that I was so scared to fly I thought I was done with drones. I’m glad I didn’t..... I have hundreds of hours flying and iam confident each and every flight Uav forescast is the best advise I can give for starters it will give you great wind readings at different altitudes etc. Hope that helps.
Thanks for the video, I am a new Mavic air 2 owner. (love it), and after flying it in some wind I feel I can trust it to a point. But I want spend plenty of time on the basics. When you were talking about pointing the camera straight down to check for obstacles (great idea). here is what I learned about the mavic air 2 to pass along. You can set up the grid lines to include an x in the middle, then face the camera down. use the x to position the drone over a landing area, then left stick down right on the spot the x marked. a fast way to get the gimbal looking straight down (double tap the left function key). gimbal back forward, double tap the left function button again.
Keep up the videos:')
This is the first video I've seen of yours. Have to say I saw an impressive amount of professionalism and knowledge packed into a video. Great job and thanks 👍
Rick I wish everyone would watch you. You teach me every time I watch. I brag I know a real drone genius. Hahaha I don't even know you. Had my mini 2 over 2 weeks and haven't got out of the yard yet. Went 20 feet up once and it moved about 3 feet and I didn't tell it to so down I came. Rick I'm 73 years old love the drone but can't afford to lose it. And it's my first one.
EXCELLENT explanations. Learn more in one of your videos than in entire playlists of other channels
Great information and could not agree with Free California more ! I had to learn the expensive way when my first Evo flew away and I panicked where if I had stayed calm I would have retrieved my drone. After the incident I analyzed what had happened or actually after tromping through the woods for hours looking for my $1000 dollar drone tracking the map but never found it. What freaked me out was the mechanics of the drone were completely reversed and I had no control what so ever but it did eventually go into a hover about 1/2 a mile from the launch but as I lowered the camera I saw it was directly over a fairly busy road and I could see traffic . That freaked me out so I managed to gain enough control to get it over the woods where it should have crashed as the battery life was drained battling heavy heavy winds with a freak storm that rolled in.
Went back a few times and scoured the woods but never found it so I accepted it as a very very expensive lesson and ordered a new one which I have been flying since. What I could have done was to simply get into my truck and drive the 1 minute to where it was hovering and set the drone down in the line of sight safely. Certainly there are many things to be aware of prior to and during the flight of your drone and this is some great information that every drone operator should read .
Thanks for the information
Thanks....I did not know about the VIO.. .......I won't forget. !!
Excellent video. I am LOVIN’ my MM! Insane that we have access to this kind of tech in our time. Don’t take anything for granted!
You are spot on when it comes to keeping calm when it comes to a flyaway. Had my first one last night I got a little to high high and a good old Kansas wind gust sent it right into a tree. Major factors were pilot error had it to close to the tree trying to fly around it and race back down the street. My saving grace’s were that I had the guards on and as soon as it went into the tree I hit the Emergency stop button and got a good visual on its orientation and flew it out and landed it. Then spent the next 45 mins cleaning the green leaf spray off of the drone and having my wife and neighbor laugh at me because I got cocky.
I’m a drone newbie but I don’t fly a DJI Mavic (Mini). My chosen weapon of choice is a Holystone HS720e which I have owned since Xmas. All I can say is thank you from the bottom of my heart for steering me and my drone in the right direction. ❤️😎❤️
Rick, I broke into droning with a Snaptain S5C and it was a good move before I bought my Mavic Mini. My first day outside with the Mini I had 3 accidents in the cemetery. Into a tree, into a granite wall and cut my thumb when I tried landing on my hand. That put me in my place and since then I've only had 2 accidents, one as recently as 2 days ago when I flew backward into a tree because I didn't have eyes on! My grandaughter saved the day by finding the quad on the ground under the tree (I did use Find My Drone). I know it must've fallen 20 feet onto the thick grass and is OK!
I am subscribed to many channels but I get the most out of Drone Valley. Being an engineer myself I have the same perspective and pretty much everything you say is clear and enlightening. You speak quickly but very efficiently in your composition. It's like speed reading.
Watching your altitude is a huge part of flying and makes complete sense. The first thing I do is take off straight up while yawing until I have a clear view in all directions. I note my altitude and add 20 ft. to RTH altitude. It is working for me so far.
Your videos are excellent. Even my wife watches with me and she has surprisingly been very supportive of my new hobby. My only other hobby is guitar but I haven't been spending as much time with it lately.
Anyway thanks for doing what you do. You're so right about how you become attached to this, like a pet that has feelings. Before I launch I think ok Mini, you better come back and in one piece or I'll really be upset. I haven't named it yet but yeah, that's coming.
Thanks!
Wow...very informative video. Another example of the truth of the old proverb ...To the man (pilot) who can't (won't) read... (or watch you tube videos)....the world is a closed book. You have no doubt saved this pilot from a crash or a flyaway. P.S. I was planning on a very low flyover our community pond.....will now stay above 25'. Thank you Rick
VIO......BEWARE.I was flying 1 metre above a lake with very still water when Marvin decided to go and land it,I was to slow to cancel the land command and in he went.I'm trying the bury in rice trick to try and dry out the moisture,it worked on my phone,which doesn't swim either,heres hoping.Your tip about changing BOTH propellers and screws now make sense,I only changed the one and used the same screws,but now I can't remember which one I changed,DOH.Keep up with these vodieos Rick they really helped with my Mini.
The rice bath for 6 days DID dry out my mini,PHEW.
You are a breath of fresh air and appreciate the lack of ego. You can’t have analytical thinking with an ego. Well done. Very helpful information which I hope I never have to use, but if I do, I’m going to pull this out of my memory bank. Thank you for your videos and sharing your experience!
I’m new at this hobby and today I received a Mavic Mini. I plan to get it up in the air tomorrow.
In preparation, I’ve been watching your videos which I find very educational on this field. I’ve already subscribed and want to thank you for your knowledge and will to share it.
I really appreciate your videos. Gives me more confidence that I can handle whatever comes my way. I got my Mavic Mini in February, but I have only flown it once. When I flew it from my backyard, all I kept thinking was there goes $400.00 if you screw up. I will keep watching your videos, so I can gain the confidence I need to just have fun. Thanks.
Thanks. I just got my Mavic Mini on Amazon Day and you just got a bunch of the mistakes I was about to make out of the way.
Situation awareness is the key. Future drones will have it.
Great info. I'm a new pilot and have yet to even attempt to fly over water. This was most helpful. Thank you.
Just ordered my first drone, a dji mini2, I’m sure I will see all your vids before it arrives and I already thank you for your great advice.
Thanks this video was great to help as I begin to start flying my mavic mini.
Seeing this kind of video reminds me why I subscribed to your channel some time ago. They are always informative and help me, as the Boy Scouts say, 'be prepared'. I just bought my first drone (the Mavic Air 2) and this video will help keep my blood pressure down! Keep up the great work!
Yesterday I had the exact “wind episode “. Low battery 30 and up mph wind , dusk, couldn’t determine direction because drone was not responding “hazy conditions “. Needless to say DJI phantom 4 pro was telling me “wind warning” for quite a while. I was however “lucky “ that I was at the RC club field with no one else around. I had the “good sense” to set the phantom down and took a walk to recover. Lesson learned .... High wind screws everything up. Drone seemed to be leaving because of high winds. I also decided I need a “sun shade” because I couldn’t get a good look thru the camera because of glare on small tablet screen. You are correct “it really put me in a panic”. Several Lessons learned.... Nice video, Thanks. Dan
Thank you very much for the information. Very very good information. Will make sure to keep the drone above 25ft over still ware or snow and bring it down to lower elevation when there is wind warning..
newbie here,,, just 3 flights on a hubsan 501s and now i have a mini mavic,, yet to fly it but this is a nice learning curve,,
Great video Rick!
As a new pilot ( Mavic 3) the info in this video is invaluable. Kudos to you sir. Subscribed
Hi Rick, another Brilliant video, I have learnt so much about drone flying from your videos,your a top guy, gained so much confidence from you, I have a mavic pro 2 and getting to grips with it.A college at work sold me his dji spark, so now can do more flying.
Thanks
Thanks for an excellent tutorial! As a newbie to drones I greatly appreciate this sort of content. I look forward to the additional vids you plan on this topic. Also, please consider doing other vids that deal with other issues drone pilots might encounter. There's plenty of equipment reviews, but few that I've found on the nuances of flying drones. This vid impressed me enough that I liked, subscribed, and turned on notifications - thanks again!
Pretty new to drone flying, and just watched a video in which there was a drone fly away. I went frantically searching for what caused them to do that. So glad I found you.
I orded my Mavic Mini yesterday, i can't wait to get it. Drone Valley is a good youtube channel to watch before you get your drone so you know what to do, and not to.
As a new pilot this information was very helpful and builds confidence.
Just purchased the Mavic mini 2 and looking at videos for flying tips. Your knowledge and advice has been greatly appreciated, thanks for taking the time.🇬🇧👍
Great advice, Rick. I have found the UAV Forecast app (although not perfect) does give me some basis of wind & gust speed from 33 AGL to 400' AGL.. But as you point out nothing can replace practical experience, follow alerts/instructions on controller, and a contingency plan with good old common sense. Above all "DO NOT PANIC!"
Correct ,Doug Crum.
I've just purchased a mini as my first drone and I'll admit to being apprehensive about flyaways. This video has helped me a lot ,thanks
Glad it helped! I love flying and knowing that others are enjoying these clips make putting them together worth it. Take your time and it does get easier with practice. Flyaways are super rare so worry less and have fun! Rick
I lightly hit the side of my shed with the rear prop on mine. It still flew fine that day with a very tiny chip in the prop. I was surprised the next day when I took it up it said it had a motor error. It told me to land it and it would beep and the motor with the bad prop would vibrate. It did it and I seen the chip in the prop. I was amazed that it could tell the difference in the prop given how tiny the damage was. I changed the props on that motor and it was fine. No problems at all. This Mavic Mini is just amazing for how tiny it is.
Your extensive knowledge really helpful for the beginners like me. TYSM for all your time and efforts. 😊
All good points thanks. I took my Mavic pro out today in very windy conditions, just to learn how much it can handle, and it was very good. It was a coastal area, so plenty of beach to ditch and recover, and very good practice.
I prefer my P4 in marginal conditions, it is a beast with a 4 cell battery, and fights against a reasonable wind, and as per your dog ref, I am very comfortable with it.
Good point about never actuate RTH if it is the wind.
Been flying for 5 years and never had a fly away, and only minor altercations with trees which deliberately extend their branches to snag you.
Enjoyed the video as I'm a new pilot learning the basics of flying my Parrot Anafi and how to avoid crashes, not to mention flyaways. I'm saving it to review periodically. Just became a subscriber.
I am seriously considering investment in a Mavic Mini 2. I do have concerns about losing the drone, because I am in Europe, so will be flying around mountains (the Alps) and I can't afford to throw away my money. Yet, I'm after those shots of the mountain landscapes. Seeking the right balance of risk and knowledge to reduce them. Your videos are helping me substantially, by providing the technical understanding I will need while flying. Thank you very much for your explanations!
Hey. This was me last year. I lost my tello drone to fly away (yes it was user error). I did replace it with Mavic Mini. I am so happy with the Mini so, I am good. I’ll be taking a course on flying a drone soon. Thanks for the content and hard work.
Oh I love nerdy explanations. I learned something new in this video. Thanks.
You're an excellent instructor. Great delivery, very earnest and trustworthy. Thanks for your insight and experience.
Great information. Thanks for taking the time to be so informative
I just got the Mavic mini for my son, and he is loving it. I appreciate your info. On this video I don’t have a drone of my own and this is my sons first and just doing some research this video actually covered very important information I am going to share with my son. Thanks.
Tks for sharing Rick, it will aware us on environment for our next fly
Had a lightweight drone get taken away by the wind while flying at 100’ but I did drop altitude and bring it back by sheer luck. Thanks for this information! Always entertaining and worth watching! Love your products as well!
"please practice" wise words. I had my M2 flying backwards, not forward at low speed. Instinctively I dropped the altitude and it slowly creeped back. Did not think of switching to sport mode as you suggested. Also like your idea of landing at a point you recognize if you run out of juice.
Great video - I nearly lost my mini within the first 3 days due to high winds. I now understand why the drone was acting funny about 2m above pond. Keep those videos coming
I enjoyed your informative video. i’ve been wanting to get a drone for sometime and have been doing a little due diligence about the DJI Mavic mini. Then I saw a review from PC mag that complained about connectivity issues and that causing me to become a little leery of the Mini. The good info you provided has me back open to considering the money. Thanks for the info
Just bought the Mavic Mini and received it last Wednesday, only have about 20 minutes flying .
Will sure watch the winds before flying and will practice to lower down and return . And will avoid low flying over water or elsewhere .
Thanks for your great explanation you do a great job ! Just sub also 😉👍
H&S 👩❤️👨🌈
From Boisbriand Québec Canada 🇨🇦
Rick, this is a REALLY informative video and a lot of common sense that will hopefully if it ever happens to me I will remember "Rick's advice". Many thanks for explaining in simple language in all your videos. Stay safe during this difficult time we are all experiencing.
I’m new to drones. Mavic Mini is my first drone and only had 2 weeks at this point. After a week flying with no issues I was feeling pretty good. Then I had a flyaway over water trying to film a covered bridge. Scared me because it went down and I missed the river by about a foot. I do have video of it. What’s what weird about it is as soon as it was over the water about 15ft above the surface the drone just went down, It wasn’t even responding to the control stick even though I was pushing straight up. I’m just glad I was saved. Lesson learned. Thank You for this video! Also to resist hitting that return to home in high winds. That’s something I’ve been tempted to do when I see the warning.
Great tutorial, very informative and well presented , thank you!
Glad it was helpful! I love flying and anything I can do to help other safely enjoy the hobby (and hold onto their drones) is worth the effort. Happy Flying!
You are a very knowledgeable individual. Wish I would have found your channel 6 weeks ago when I got my mavic mini
A very informative piece of information. Vital for everyone. Well done.
Very informative. Flawless delivery. Thanks
I’m brand new to flying a drone (DJI Mini 2). I’ve been watching a ton of TH-cam videos. Good stuff, but an awful lot of the same info. I’ve just watched 2 of your videos and have learned things I’ve heard nowhere else. Great info on watching the horizon on the attitude indicator, and the competing guidance between GPS and IVO?, I think it was, that takes over below 20 feet. I just subscribed and an excited to see more. Thanks for the “on point” detail.
Very good, I never knew about VIO. I was always afraid to fly over water, but now I know what's going on! Not long ago I was flying with a friend. It was his first time. I showed him the map option on the DJI Fly App, and the RTH option of his Mini 2. Thanks to this brief knowledge he was able to bring the drone home after he lost sight of it! Still, after 3 years of droning flying it always give a certain 'tension', but that makes you alert, I think!
Very nice and informative. Thanks for breaking down the difference between environment and terrain. Im taking my FAA 107 before too long and, soaking up all of this info like a sponge.
thanks for the info about flying over the water
Thank you. Now I understand why my MINI suddenly dropped when I was flying over a blackberry bush in my 2nd attempt at flying a drone.
I had to replace all of my propellers.
Thanks for clearing up this mystery.
I had my Mini do a wondering off side ways or a fly away last week, No wind but over tree's, I did everything before setting off with the compass wind check ect,
And its first time it did a fly away, All i can think off that the down censers got confuses with been over tree's and drifted off with out control it, In end i had to fight it by controlling it back home and it was like skating on a ice ring flying it back. Its not just the wind at times it can be the bottom censers that can get confused or fall at times too.
Thank you , I am new to this hobby and want to learn everything I can. Your video's are VERY helpful!
I love the brevity and clarity of this man for this channel.
I've been cool with drones for a bit, flown a few, it's nice.
Finally bought my Mavic Mini. Had error 40002 gimbal issues out the box, but it's working now.
Can't wait to see what I can do with this drone. Thanks for this channel and the way you present information, I love it.
You get a sub! Your videos are extremely helpful and helped me get an idea on what's important to know before getting some amazing shots. Just bought a mini 2 SE and it's been great!
Closest encounter I had to a fly away with when I flew under power lines. I immediately lost all control. And couldn't locate my drone. So I tried to keep a clear head, and just let go of the controls to see if the Drone would just stay where it was. I was able to see where I was at and landed the Drone. And safely recovered it. Lesson learned about flying around power lines!
Great advice. Love my mavic mini. I live in AZ. On very windy days, it usually won’t let me go very high. But it does ok in slight wind and gives excellent warnings when it is windy at higher levels. And I never will fly down wind without at least 75% battery due to the fear of not enough power to fly back into the wind.
Exactly, I see people try to fly it all the way back with critical battery and crash. I'm thinking, that power tower, landmark, land it there, get in the car and go get the drone. Better than a disastrous crash. Great advice.
This video is very informative especially for a new flyer like me. I never knew the limits of a Mavic Mini and the high flyaway statistics happening out there, until I saw this video. This gives me head knowledge of what to watch out for while flying my Mavic Mini. Thanks so much!
Thanks for the tips Rick! I have a Mavic Mini & this really helps in trying to being prepared.
Thanks for the time and explanation!!i have been flying for over a year and always learning something new! Greetings from a Cozumel, Mexico!
I truly appreciate your honesty and detail. Have not moved up to mavric line or above yet. However the knowledge you share is key to me becoming a better pilot. I'll keep all the information you shared as I consider my next purchase.
Brilliant video. Thank you so much!
My Mavic Mini is on it's way, so as a going to be new pilot this was very helpful...thank you.
What a great video. I'm a new Mini owner, trying to educate myself as much as possible to be a responsible and capable pilot, taking baby steps with the hobby. This is a really valuable resource for tips on how to make good decisions before and during flight, and how to keep your head when the situation goes pear-shaped. Many thanks for sharing!
Thanks Rick and yeah I leaned about the Mavic Air and wind real quick. Great little drone but after needing to put down a mile out and going to get it I sold it. Every flight I alway pick out "what if" spots to land the drone and they've come in pretty handy. Good video Rick
Very educational. Very clear and precise. I’ve learned a lot. Thank you.
Excellent..... simple as that, thanks
thanks for the video , im on my 3rd mini , crashed two since feb 2020. totalled one and one is still on the roof of my apartment, #3 is safe and sound. no crashes since.Ive set a personal range record at 5.23 miles over lake toledo bend in texas ...gimme a shout . looking forward to hearing from you. im working on my 107.
Thanks for all your good information
Awesome video - thanks for putting this together. I haven't had a flyaway yet - but am going to be around water and want to study up on what happens. The explanation was awesome.
That is some absolutely incredible information, thank you for taking time to share
Enjoy your presentations so much! So concise and well rehearsed. Now please consider phone issues: my smart phone has shut down and even dropped the app. So with a blank screen I was glad I had line of sight to return home. I had to land, shut down, and reboot app and the equipment. Then I was flying again but sinced learned I needed to change phones or better yet, fly with the DJI smart controller. Thanks always for your videos!
Great video! I am a new flyer and these tips are really important!
Excellent experienced advice.
Very clear and concise information, as usual, Rick. I've been 'humming and harring' for two months or more, the reason being that yes.I'd love a Mavic Mini but... I'm 84 and not sure about spending that much money and then maybe losing it or doing something stupid. I hope they are still selling them in another couple of months' time! Thanks for all the great videos.
excellent video . thank you
Thank You again *Rick* 4 Another GR8 Video!... I Have Learned Sooo MUCH from U Regarding My Mavic Air2 I Really Like All your videos!!! PLEASE Keep Up All Of YOUR GREAT Work!
The first flight on my Mini yesterday after only having flown a Pro before. I thought I'd try out RTH. On the way up to its 20m RTH height the wind got hold and away it went. Of course it went down wind and over the water spinning in circles. Eventually it recovered which was probably once it reduced height and wind speed reduced. At least now I know why it did this and can restore some confidence.
Great video Rick, especially the part about the bottom sensors "VIO "and the gps controlling the drone. Take the mini out at night in a dark area push takeoff and when it rises to the 6 foot hover spot , you better raiise-up fast so the gps takes over, or the mini will take off on you without proper lighting