DJI Mini 5 Pro: Confusion surrounding the takeoff weight of the new drone
The new drone from DJI is said to be heavier than stated by the manufacturer. This raises the question of whether it can be flown without proof of competence.
(Image: DJI)
Chinese manufacturer DJI began selling its new Mini 5 Pro quadcopter yesterday (Thursday). The drones in this series are typically characterized by a maximum take-off weight of less than 250 grams, which means they can be flown without a license as Category C0 drones under the EU drone regulation.
However, prior to the official launch, DJI sent a press release stating that the takeoff weight of the new model was 254 grams. This would mean that the drone significantly exceeds the 250-gram limit and would therefore require an EU A1/A3 certificate of competence (often referred to as a "small drone license"). Nevertheless, DJI stated that the Mini 5 Pro could be flown in the C0 category without a certificate of competence. When asked about this contradiction, the manufacturer explained to c't that the weight specification was a mistake. The website also states that the Mini 5 Pro has a takeoff weight of 249 g.
After the launch, however, several customers decided to weigh the drone – and came to the conclusion that it exceeded the stated 250 grams. c't took this as an opportunity to ask DJI again about the weight specification.
Drone weight may vary
DJI issued the following statement (translation by c't): "The DJI Mini 5 Pro has a design weight of 249.9 grams and has been awarded C0 certification by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Due to manufacturing tolerances, the actual weight of the product may vary slightly by ±4 grams. Minor weight variations are normal. For operation outside Europe, users are advised to consult and comply with all applicable local regulations."
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This statement should be understood to mean that, according to DJI, users of the Mini 5 Pro are on the safe side within the scope of the EU drone regulation if they fly without proof of competence. Outside Europe, however, higher weight due to manufacturing tolerances could mean that the drone may only be flown with a license or with other restrictions.
The fact that DJI transfers all responsibility to the buyer is very problematic. In addition, the official takeoff weight of the drone, at 249.9 g, is so close to the C0 upper limit that even attaching a sticker to the device can be legally problematic. DJI itself offers ND filters for the Mini 5 Pro, the use of which pushes the weight of the drone above the permissible limit.
(mho)
