The DJI Air 3S uses the DJI Fly app. DJI says it works only with DJI Fly, so DJI GO 4 and DJI Mimo won't connect. Get it from the App Store on iPhone, or from DJI's website on Android (it isn't on Google Play). If you fly with the DJI RC 2, DJI Fly comes preinstalled on the controller.
Download DJI Fly
| Device | Where to get it | DJI's requirement |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone / iPad | App Store, search "DJI Fly" | iOS 13.0 or later; iPhone 11 or newer recommended |
| Android | APK from the DJI Fly download page | Android 9.0 or later; recent flagship recommended |
| DJI RC 2 / RC Pro 2 | Already installed | Update when prompted |
For Android, your phone will ask you to allow installs from the browser the first time. Our install guide for Android covers each prompt. If the app runs poorly, check DJI's tested phone list or our page on DJI Fly compatible phones.
Controllers that work with the Air 3S
DJI lists the RC-N3 (included in the standard kit), RC-N2 and DJI RC 2, and the Air 3S release notes also list firmware for the DJI RC Pro 2. The Air 3S can't be flown with a phone alone. See Air 3S phone-only flying and Air 3S controllers.
Activate the Air 3S in DJI Fly
With the RC-N3:
- Pull out the phone holder. The USB-C cable is connected by default; swap to the Lightning cable for older iPhones.
- On Android, choose charge only if a USB prompt appears. Other options can break the connection.
- Make sure the phone is online. Press, then press and hold the power button on the controller, then on the drone.
- Open DJI Fly, connect to the aircraft, and follow the activation prompts.
With the DJI RC 2:
- Power on the RC 2 and connect it to Wi-Fi or a phone hotspot.
- Activate the controller in DJI Fly, connect to the aircraft, then activate the aircraft.
After activation the drone binds to the controller. Binding matters: DJI Care Refresh flyaway coverage requires the aircraft to be bound to your DJI account and controller. See DJI Care Refresh activation.
Stay logged in
DJI limits flight to 30 m (98 ft) high and 50 m (164 ft) away when the app isn't connected or logged in. Logging in also lets you unlock GEO zones and keeps your flight records.
What DJI Fly does for the Air 3S
- Live view, camera settings, ActiveTrack, QuickShots, MasterShots, Hyperlapse and waypoints
- Firmware updates for the drone, controller and batteries
- QuickTransfer of photos and videos to your phone at up to 30 MB/s
- Safety settings like RTH altitude and the Home Point
New to the drone? Follow our Air 3S quick start, or see the DJI Air 3S in our store.
Related guides
- Which app does the DJI Air 3 use? DJI Fly setup guide
- Which app does the DJI Flip use? DJI Fly setup guide
- Which app does the DJI Mini 4 Pro use? DJI Fly setup guide
- Which app does the DJI Mini 5 Pro use? DJI Fly setup guide
- Which app does the DJI Mavic 4 Pro use? DJI Fly setup guide
- Which app does the DJI Neo use? DJI Fly setup guide
Not sure which to pick?
Tell us what you'll fly and your budget. One of our drone pilots will reply with a recommendation.
Buying drones for a business, agency or store? Get wholesale pricing →
