Your first flight checklist

The night before

• Charge the drone, controller and phone fully.
• Update the app and drone firmware on Wi-Fi at home.
• Read the quick-start guide and check the manual for your model's warnings.
• Format or insert a microSD card if your drone needs one (the DJI Neo has built-in storage).
• Check registration and local rules, and complete any required test.
• Look at the weather and wind forecast, and choose a calm window.

Packing

• Drone, controller (if you have one) and cables.
• Spare batteries and spare propellers.
• Memory card, phone and a small screwdriver for propellers.
• A landing mat or flat board, if you want a clean surface.

At the site

• Pick a wide-open area with no wires, trees or crowds nearby.
• Check airspace restrictions for the location.
• Check people, pets and traffic. Keep everyone behind you.
• Look for hazards overhead, and note where you could land in an emergency.
• Inspect the propellers for cracks and check they are firmly attached.

Power-up checks

1. Unfold the arms and remove the gimbal cover.
2. Switch on the controller, then the drone.
3. Wait for a strong GPS lock and the "home point updated" message (see GPS and return-to-home).
4. Confirm battery level, camera feed and storage space.
5. Choose the gentlest flight mode and check the return-to-home altitude.

Takeoff and first minutes

• Take off and hover about 1–2 m up, then stop and listen for odd sounds.
• Check the drone holds position and responds smoothly.
• Climb gradually to around 10 m. Practise slow turns and gentle moves.
• Keep the drone in sight and your thumbs gentle.

During the flight

• Watch battery, signal strength and wind warnings on the screen, but look up often.
• Fly in front of you at first, so the drone's nose is pointed away from you.
• Do not fly beyond sight, over people, or above the legal height limit.
• Start heading back with 30% battery or earlier.

Landing

1. Return to a spot above your landing area and descend slowly.
2. Use the landing assist or one-key landing if available.
3. Once down, hold the stick down or power off following your model's instructions.
4. Switch off the drone first, then the controller.

After the flight

• Let batteries cool before charging them.
• Check propellers, motors and the gimbal for damage.
• Back up your footage and clear the card if needed.
• Store batteries partly charged in a cool dry place (see flight time and batteries).
• Note anything that surprised you, and plan what to practise next.