Buying the DJI Air 3 drone only: what else you need

An Air 3 "drone only" (aircraft-only) unit makes sense only if you already own a compatible controller and batteries, usually because you're replacing a lost or crashed drone. You'll need an RC-N2, RC-N3, DJI RC 2 or RC Pro 2, at least one Air 3 or Air 3S battery, and a USB-C charger. The Air 3 can't be flown from a phone alone.

What our standard kit includes

Our standard DJI Air 3 kit ($1,209) already includes the RC-N2 controller, one battery and spare propellers. For most buyers that's the cheapest complete way in. A separate controller ($142 for an RC-N3) and battery ($270 for an Air 3S battery, which fits the Air 3) add up quickly.

Checklist if you buy aircraft only

1. Controller. RC-N2, RC-N3, DJI RC 2 or RC Pro 2. The RC-N1 and the original DJI RC aren't supported. RC-N3 and RC Pro 2 need recent Air 3 firmware. See Air 3 controllers.
2. Battery. An Air 3 or Air 3S Intelligent Flight Battery. Aircraft-only listings don't always include one, so check.
3. Charger. A USB-C PD charger rated 60 W or more. You can charge through the drone's USB-C port, or use the three-battery hub.
4. Propellers. Air 3 Series Low-Noise Propellers (8747F). Check you have a full set of A and B props.
5. microSD card. The Air 3 has 8 GB of internal storage. Add a V30 card from DJI's list. See Air 3 SD cards.
6. Gimbal protector. Keeps the cameras safe in your bag.

Before you fly a replacement Air 3

• Link it. Pair the new drone to your controller in DJI Fly. Our pairing guide covers it.
• Update firmware. Bring the aircraft, controller and app to the latest versions.
• Register it. At 720 g the Air 3 needs FAA registration. If you replace a drone, update the serial number in your FAADroneZone account, since the Remote ID serial is tied to your registration. See Air 3 Remote ID.
• Activate DJI Care Refresh promptly if you want accident cover. DJI only sells it for a short window after activation. See DJI Care Refresh.

Watch out for

• Gray-market or used aircraft that are bound to someone else's DJI account or carry a different region's firmware.
• "New" aircraft with no warranty paperwork. Buy from an authorized dealer so the DJI warranty applies.

Not sure whether you need a full kit? Compare the standard kit with the Air 3 Fly More Combo, or contact us with what you already own and we'll tell you what's missing.

Related guides

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• Buying the DJI Mini 4 Pro drone only: what else you need
• Buying the DJI Mini 5 Pro drone only: what else you need
• Buying the DJI Flip drone only: what else you need
• Buying the DJI Mavic 4 Pro drone only: what else you need
• Buying the DJI Neo drone only: what else you need

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