DJI Block – Your Quick Guide to Flying Drones in India
If you own a DJI Mini 2 or any DJI drone, you’ve probably heard the term “DJI block” in recent news. It’s not a technical glitch – it’s a government restriction that stops some DJI firmware updates and limits certain features in Indian airspace. The block can make your drone stop working correctly or restrict you from using the latest safety updates. Below we break down what it means and give you clear actions so you can still enjoy your drone without breaking the law.
Understanding the DJI Block
The Indian government introduced the block to keep tighter control over foreign‑made drones. Simply put, any DJI device that tries to connect to DJI’s cloud servers for firmware or geo‑fencing data may be denied access. This affects features like real‑time flight maps, automatic no‑fly‑zone alerts, and some of the newer safety modes. If your drone can’t reach those servers, you might see a warning on the app, or the aircraft may refuse to take off.
Most hobbyists notice the issue when they try to update their drone or when the app shows a “service unavailable” message. The problem is not that your drone is broken – it’s that the software can’t talk to DJI’s overseas servers because Indian regulators have blocked that traffic.
How to Fly Legally After the Block
Don’t panic. You can still fly your DJI Mini 2 if you follow a few steps:
- Register your drone. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) now requires all drones above 250 g to be registered online. Upload your proof of purchase, pay the fee, and keep the registration ID in your phone.
- Get a UAOP (Unmanned Aircraft Operator Permit). For commercial work you’ll need this permit. The application asks for details about your drone, your insurance, and the planned flight area.
- Fly in allowed zones. Use the DGCA’s Digital India Map (no need for a link, just search) to check your city’s no‑fly zones. Avoid airports, military bases, and densely populated areas unless you have special permission.
- Turn off cloud‑based features. In the DJI Fly app go to Settings → Advanced Settings and disable “Remote ID” sync and “Geo‑fencing updates.” The drone will still work offline, just without the latest map data.
- Keep firmware at the last working version. If you already have a stable firmware version installed before the block, don’t try to update until the DGCA releases a local update package.
These steps let you stay within the law while you wait for DJI or the DGCA to roll out a local server solution. Many Indian users report that flying with the offline mode works fine for backyard shoots, weddings, and small events.
Remember to always check the battery, calibrate the compass, and do a quick pre‑flight test. The block doesn’t affect the basic flight controls, so your drone will still hover, capture smooth video, and return home when you press the button.
If you’re a professional photographer, consider adding a local backup plan – a second drone from a brand that isn’t blocked, or a handheld gimbal for indoor shoots. That way you won’t lose a job if the DJI services stay unavailable for a long time.
Bottom line: the DJI block limits some software features, but it doesn’t ground your drone completely. Register, follow DGCA rules, disable the blocked services, and you’re good to go. Happy flying!