Operating temperature of drones

Particularly in the cold season, the question of what temperatures you can still fly your drone at arises more frequently. We offer you an overview of the manufacturer’s specifications and further information on the topic of drone operating temperatures.

When temperatures drop below freezing, many drone pilots rightly ask themselves the question“Can I fly my drone in sub-zero temperatures?”. In what temperature ranges is it still safe to fly drones? What is the operating temperature of my drone? The manufacturers usually provide the answer themselves. We have compiled an overview for you.

Overview – Operating temperatures of drones

The temperature ranges at which a drone can be flown are specified by the manufacturers themselves in the technical specifications of their drones. This information can usually be found on the manufacturer’s website or directly in the respective drone manual.

The following table provides you with an overview of the operating temperatures of the most popular drone models. We have taken the information directly from the manufacturers and regularly supplement or adapt it.

Is it possible to fly outside the recommended operating temperature?

But what happens if you fly your drone outside these operating temperatures? The drone will not simply fall out of the sky. The manufacturer’s specifications are usually strictly chosen to protect themselves from complaints. They specify temperature ranges in which they can say with certainty that the drone will not experience any restrictions. There will still be some room for manoeuvre upwards and downwards, but you should not necessarily exhaust this. You are therefore flying at your own risk if you ignore the manufacturer’s specifications. This can be particularly tricky in the event of an insurance claim!

This is because at temperatures above or below the recommended operating temperature, it can no longer be guaranteed that the installed technology will function properly.

This can affect the sensors, motors, camera and, above all, the battery. If temperatures are too cold, the battery can no longer deliver its full performance. As a result, the flight time may be reduced and the battery may “age” more quickly if used continuously outside of the recommendation.

The error-free functioning of the sensors is also no longer guaranteed. This can lead to unexpected flight behaviour, which in the worst case can result in your drone crashing and becoming defective.

We therefore recommend that you always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and exercise particular caution when flying outside of the recommendations.

Drone insurance

It is also important to mention here that drone liability insurance is mandatory. Even those who operate within the recommended operating temperature ranges cannot avoid taking out appropriate cover within the EU in accordance with the EU Drone Regulation.

Flying a drone in winter – more tips

We have summarised what else you need to consider when flying drones in winter in our guide Flying a drone in winter – what do you need to bear in mind? The manufacturer DJI also provides a suitable article on this topic in its blog.

FAQ Operating temperature of drones