DJI rates the DJI Air 3S's maximum wind speed resistance at 12 m/s, which is about 27 mph, 43 km/h or 23 knots. On the Beaufort scale that's level 6, a strong breeze. It's the most the drone can handle, not a comfortable flying condition: fly freely under about 15 mph, take care from 15 to 25 mph, and stay grounded when gusts approach 27 mph.
12 m/s in other units
| Unit | Air 3S max wind |
|---|---|
| Meters per second | 12 m/s |
| Miles per hour | about 27 mph |
| Kilometers per hour | about 43 km/h |
| Knots | about 23 kt |
| Beaufort scale | Level 6 (10.8 to 13.8 m/s) |
Why the rating isn't the whole story
- Gusts. A 15 mph average with 30 mph gusts is too much. Check gust forecasts, not just the average.
- Altitude. Wind usually picks up with height. A calm parking lot can mean 25 mph at 400 ft.
- The trip home. Flying back into a headwind close to 12 m/s leaves the drone very little speed to make progress. You may need Sport mode, which turns obstacle sensing off.
- Battery. Holding position in wind drains the battery fast. DJI also notes that cold batteries reduce wind resistance.
- Low battery RTH. DJI warns the drone may not be able to return home if the wind is too strong. Leave a bigger reserve.
How to fly the Air 3S in wind
- Check the forecast for wind and gusts at altitude before you go.
- Fly upwind first, so the return leg has the wind behind you.
- Stay closer and lower than usual, within legal limits.
- Take the strong-wind warning seriously. When DJI Fly shows it, head home.
- Land with 25 to 30% battery instead of the usual 15 to 20%.
- Use Sport mode to get home if you aren't gaining ground, well clear of obstacles.
- Take off and land in shelter behind a building or hill if you can.
Footage in wind
The three-axis gimbal keeps footage steady in moderate wind, though DJI notes it may vibrate in strong wind. The 70 mm tele shows shake more than the wide camera. On gusty days, use the wide camera, slow your moves and keep a higher shutter speed.
How it compares
The Air 3 has the same 12 m/s rating. Sub-250 g Minis are lighter and generally rated lower, so the Air series is the better choice for coasts, mountains and open country. See best drone for windy conditions and our guide to flying a drone in wind.
Fly the DJI Air 3S within its limits and it handles typical breezy days well. Read Air 3S battery life to plan your reserve.
Related guides
- Best DJI Air 3S accessories worth buying
- Best SD card for the DJI Air 3S (and internal storage)
- Buying the DJI Air 3S drone only: what else you need
- Can you buy the DJI Air 3S in the US? Ban status and price
- Can you fly the DJI Air 3S without a controller?
- Can you hand-land the DJI Air 3S? Palm takeoff and gestures
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