DJI's New Drone Models Surface: DJI Neo 2 Appears in FCC Database, DJI Mavic 4 Pro Offers Cinematic Experience, and More!
In the ever-evolving world of drone technology, two significant developments are causing a stir. On one hand, MOSAIC, a new aerial rule, is poised to bring changes to the Light-Sport Aircraft category, potentially paving the way for more versatile aircraft [1]. On the other hand, the anticipated DJI Neo 2 drone, with its upgraded features, is expected to revolutionise the market, but its availability in the U.S. remains uncertain [2][3].
Meanwhile, in Milton, Wisconsin, a drone pilot from Wisco Aerial and Ground Services utilised a DJI Matrice 30 to locate a missing 4-year-old girl in a dense cornfield within 40 minutes [4]. The incident underscores the potential of drones in search and rescue operations, hinting at competitive and collaborative opportunities ahead.
The DJI Neo 2, a selfie drone for vloggers, has appeared in the FCC database, and is expected to weigh 135 grams, under the FAA's 250 gram registration threshold [5]. With a larger battery (1606mAh) compared to the original Neo (1435mAh), the Neo 2 could offer a potential longer flight time [6]. However, the Mavic 4 Pro, another DJI drone, did not launch in the U.S., leaving doubts about the Neo 2's market entry [7].
The FAA's MOSAIC rule, on the other hand, brings a major overhaul to the Light-Sport Aircraft category, allowing for bigger, faster, and more versatile aircraft [1]. MOSAIC calls for collaboration between crewed and uncrewed aviation standards committees, pointing to a future where drone certification and operations may adopt more flexible, performance-based frameworks [8].
New York City's Drone Operations Committee could serve as a national model for responsible drone integration in complex city environments [9]. The committee, established by Mayor Eric Adams, aims to improve governance and innovation in urban drone use, building on initiatives like the NYPD's Drone as First Responder program [10].
In the realm of cinematic travel videos, the Mavic 4 Pro's 100MP Hasselblad camera and 360° rotating Infinity Gimbal were recently used to capture a video showcasing the drone's capabilities, featuring destinations like Vietnam and Turkey [11].
As the drone industry continues to evolve, these developments highlight the potential for increased collaboration between drone and aircraft standards committees, as well as the continued importance of search and rescue operations using drones. The future of drone technology in the U.S. remains uncertain, with the Neo 2's availability and the MOSAIC rule's influence yet to be fully realised.
- The DJI Neo 2 drone, a selfie drone for vloggers, is expected to weigh 135 grams, under the FAA's 250 gram registration threshold, and utilizes technology for potential longer flight times.
- The MOSAIC rule, a major overhaul to the Light-Sport Aircraft category, calls for collaboration between crewed and uncrewed aviation standards committees, aiming to adopt flexible, performance-based frameworks for drone certification and operations.
- A drone pilot from Wisco Aerial and Ground Services in Milton, Wisconsin, utilised a DJI Matrice 30 drone to locate a missing 4-year-old girl in a dense cornfield within 40 minutes, showcasing the potential of drones in search and rescue operations.
- Recent developments in drone technology, such as the anticipated DJI Neo 2 and the MOSAIC rule, could lead to increased collaboration between drone and aircraft standards committees, and potentially impact the safety of both crewed and unmanned flights.
- New York City's Drone Operations Committee, established by Mayor Eric Adams, aims to improve governance and innovation in urban drone use, serving as a national model for responsible drone integration in complex city environments.
