DJI Drone Quick Start Guide: Troubleshooting Connection Issues

Updated at: 25/06/2025

Excited to fly your new DJI drone? Connection problems can quickly dampen the excitement. This quick-start guide tackles common DJI drone connection issues, from controller pairing woes to app connectivity hiccups. We'll provide clear, step-by-step troubleshooting solutions, getting you airborne and capturing stunning footage in no time. Let's get you connected!

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Drone

    • Unfold the drone propellers carefully. Follow the numbered sequence on the drone body.
    • Insert the drone battery into the designated compartment on the back of the drone and close the cover securely.
    Insert the drone battery into the designated compartment on the back of the drone and close the cover securely.
    Prepare the Drone

  2. Power On the Drone

    • Turn on the drone by pressing the power button once, waiting a second, then pressing and holding it for a second time. The lights on the back will indicate the drone's status.

  3. Prepare the Smartphone and DJI Fly App

    • Ensure your smartphone is charged and connected to the DJI Fly app. Use the original USB-C cable provided with the DJI drone.
    • Turn on the smartphone by pressing its power button once, then waiting a second and pressing and holding it.
    Turn on the smartphone by pressing its power button once, then waiting a second and pressing and holding it. Turn on the smartphone by pressing its power button once, then waiting a second and pressing and holding it.
    Prepare the Smartphone and DJI Fly App

  4. Connect Smartphone to Drone

    • Connect your smartphone to the drone controller using the original DJI cable. If you encounter connection issues, try a different smartphone or ensure that your phone's USB port is functioning correctly.
    Connect your smartphone to the drone controller using the original DJI cable. If you encounter connection issues, try a different smartphone or ensure that your phone's USB port is functioning correctly.
    Connect Smartphone to Drone

  5. Verify Connection and Camera View

    • Once connected, the DJI Fly app should automatically display the drone's camera view. If not, manually select your drone within the app.
    Once connected, the DJI Fly app should automatically display the drone's camera view. If not, manually select your drone within the app.
    Verify Connection and Camera View

  6. Take Off

    • To take off, press and hold the upward arrow button on the controller. A confirmation box will appear; press and hold the button again to initiate takeoff.
    To take off, press and hold the upward arrow button on the controller. A confirmation box will appear; press and hold the button again to initiate takeoff.
    Take Off
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Tips

  • Always use the original DJI cable supplied with your drone to ensure proper data transfer and avoid connection issues.
  • If you experience connection problems, try using a different smartphone or check your phone's USB port for malfunctions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrectly Installed or Damaged Antenna

Reason: A loose, improperly seated, or damaged antenna significantly weakens or completely blocks the signal between the drone and controller.
Solution: Ensure the antennas are securely attached and undamaged; replace if necessary.

2. Interference from Other Devices or Environments

Reason: Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, metal objects, and even certain weather conditions can interfere with the drone's radio frequency signal.
Solution: Move away from potential sources of interference, such as Wi-Fi routers or metal structures, and try again in an open area.

FAQs

My DJI drone controller won't connect to my phone/tablet. What should I do?
First, ensure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on your mobile device. Then, check that the DJI Fly app is updated to the latest version. Make sure your controller is fully charged and try restarting both your controller and mobile device. If the issue persists, verify your mobile device's compatibility with your drone model and try reinstalling the DJI Fly app. Also check for any interference from other electronic devices.