How To Take Off DJI Neo Drone

To take off manually, you must first start the motors using a Combination Stick Command (CSC). Pull both control sticks down and to the inner or outer corners simultaneously and hold them until the motors start. Once the motors are spinning, slowly push the left control stick (throttle) upwards until the DJI Neo lifts off the ground.​

There are several common reasons for this. The drone may be in a restricted GEO zone, which prevents flight for safety reasons. It could also be in Beginner Mode, which requires a strong GPS signal before allowing takeoff. Check the map in your DJI Fly app for any red zones and ensure you have a strong satellite lock before trying again.​

While a ground launch is always preferable, a hand launch is possible if you are in an area without a flat surface. To do this, hold the drone firmly from underneath, keeping your fingers clear of the propellers. Initiate the takeoff sequence and as the drone begins to ascend, release it smoothly. This is an advanced maneuver and should be performed with extreme caution.​

If the takeoff icon doesn't appear, it usually means a pre-flight check has failed. Most commonly, the drone has not yet acquired a strong enough GPS signal to set a Home Point. The drone may also need a firmware update, as out-of-date firmware can prevent connection and flight. Ensure you are in an open outdoor area and give the drone a few minutes to lock onto satellites.​

Yes, it is possible to take off without GPS, as the drone will operate in ATTI (Attitude) mode, which relies on its internal barometer to hold altitude. However, in ATTI mode, the drone will not hold its position and will drift with the wind, requiring constant manual control. It is strongly recommended, especially for new pilots, to wait for a strong GPS lock before taking off.​

If the motors won't start, first check that the propellers are installed correctly, as the drone's self-check will prevent startup if they are mismatched. Also, ensure you are not in a restricted flight zone. If the issue persists after checking these factors, there could be a motor malfunction, which would require professional service from DJI.​

If you initiate the auto-takeoff sequence but need to abort it before the drone leaves the ground, you can tap the red "X" icon that appears on the screen during the countdown. If the drone is already ascending, you can immediately pull down on the left control stick (throttle) to override the auto-takeoff and command the drone to land.

Sudden, erratic behavior after takeoff can be a sign of a weak GPS signal, compass interference, or a more serious flight controller issue. If you see a "Satellite positioning signal weak" message, land immediately and wait for a stronger lock. If the drone becomes uncontrollable, be prepared to initiate an emergency motor stop to prevent a flyaway, though this will cause the drone to fall.​

If a phone notification or accidental tap takes you out of the DJI Fly app while airborne, you will lose control of the drone from your phone. The drone will typically hover in place. You will need to reopen the app and go through the re-pairing process to regain control, which can take valuable time and sometimes fails, so it is recommended to use your phone's "Do Not Disturb" mode during flight.​

No, you cannot take off in a red "Restricted Zone" as these are high-security areas like airports. The drone's firmware will prevent the motors from starting. In some other zones, like blue Authorization Zones, you may be able to fly after completing a self-unlocking process through the DJI Fly app, which requires a verified DJI account.​