Flying my drones is one of the most exciting ways to capture video, photos, and data from the sky, but it also comes with responsibilities. To keep airspace safe, DJI (the world’s leading consumer drone manufacturer) integrates geofencing technology into its drones and flight software. This ensures that we can’t accidentally (or deliberately) fly into restricted areas, such as airports, prisons, or sensitive government sites.
In this guide, I’ll break down how DJI’s geofencing works, what it means for drone pilots in the UK and EU, and how to unlock areas safely and legally when required.
What is Geofencing?
Geofencing is a digital barrier, created using GPS and map data, that prevents drones from entering or taking off in certain areas. DJI’s system relies on its FlySafe database, which is regularly updated to reflect global airspace restrictions.
In the UK, DJI has partnered with Altitude Angel, the company behind the Drone Safety Map and the Drone Assist app (the official CAA-endorsed airspace awareness tool). This means FlySafe data for UK pilots is closely aligned with Altitude Angel’s live database of no-fly zones, restricted areas, and temporary flight restrictions (TFRs).
When you try to fly into a restricted area, DJI’s software will either:
- Block the flight completely, or
- Show a warning and require you to acknowledge the risks before proceeding.
Geofencing works through a combination of real-time satellite positioning, digital maps of restricted airspace, flight-control algorithms, and sometimes cellular connectivity. The system continuously calculates whether the drone is inside or approaching restricted zones and automatically enforces safety behaviours. It’s a smart blend of software and hardware that keeps drones legally and physically in the right airspace.
DJI’s No-Fly Zone Categories
It’s important to use drone safety maps before every flight to ensure we are not about to take flight in a restricted area. I personally use the Drone Safety Map and Drone Assist, which are closely linked to the software we use on our DJI controllers. The maps and software use a tiered system to indicate different types of restricted airspace. Here’s an example of a number of geofenced off areas around Exeter.
Flight Restriction Zones (FRZ) / Protected Aerodrome Zones – 🟥 Red
These are strict no-fly areas around airports or protected aerodromes. You must have permission from the relevant authority to fly here. Some aerodromes support digital requests through Altitude Angel’s GuardianUTM system.
Find out how to fly your drone in an FRZ here.
Typically shown in solid red, they include circular zones (2–2.5 nm radius, up to 2,000 ft AGL) and rectangular runway “trumpet” corridors. Some smaller airfields or heliports only have the circular zone.
Here’s an example of Exeter Airport
No-Fly / Prohibited Zones – 🟥 Deep Red or Crimson
Permanent or temporary prohibition zones covering sensitive or high-security sites like prisons, military bases, and power stations.
- Clearly marked in deep red or labelled “Prohibited / Excluded.”
- Flying is forbidden without special exemption.
- Check zone details; some may allow flight only below certain altitudes or under specific conditions.
Here’s an example of a prison restriction zone. HMP Dartmoor.
Restricted / Controlled / Caution Zones – 🟧 Orange to 🟨 Yellow
These represent areas of increased risk or zones requiring authorisation, such as near controlled airspace or helipads.
- Shown in amber, orange, or yellow, often semi-transparent.
- May reflect temporary restrictions (NOTAMs) or altitude limits.
- Flying is possible but with caution; always check details and maintain safe separation from manned aircraft.
Here’s an example of a controlled area that encircles a Helipad.
Ground Hazards & Environmental Zones – 🟨 Pale Yellow or 🟩 Light Green
Highlight ground-level risks such as towers, powerlines, or sensitive environmental sites.
- Icons and shaded zones in light yellow or green hues.
- Do not necessarily ban flights, but call for extra vigilance.
- Use map filters to view hazard layers and note temporary obstacles like cranes.
Nature reserves are common in the UK and should not be ignored. Most likely an SSSI (Site of Specific Scientific Interest) you should find out more information before flying in this area.
Other Drone Missions / Shared Airspace – 🟦 Blue
Altitude Angel also displays active or planned drone operations.
- Shown as blue paths or polygons.
- Indicate reserved airspace or ongoing missions in UTM-managed zones.
- Avoid or coordinate if crossing these areas to prevent conflicts.
Here’s an example of a planned drone flight that has been marked on the map in blue. When I click on the blue circled area I can see more details.
This user reported flight has been booked in advance, most likely because it is within an FRZ.
How This Applies in the UK & EU
In the UK and EU, drone pilots must follow CAA (UK Civil Aviation Authority) and EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) regulations. DJI integrates these regional rules into its geofencing system.
- UK Specifics: Geofencing reflects restrictions around airports, heliports, and sensitive infrastructure. Since Brexit, the UK follows its own CAA rules, but DJI maintains UK-specific geofencing maps.
- EU Specifics: EASA rules apply across member states, and DJI’s software adjusts to reflect those unified standards. You can find country-specific information here: https://www.easa.europa.eu/en/domains/civil-drones/naa
Unlocking Authorisation Zones
In the UK, the process to unlock flight access (DJI system) to these zones is quite straightforward. Whilst in flight, or before takeoff within an FRZ, a notification/warning will appear on the screen that looks like this:
To allow access to fly in this zone, you can simply agree to assume full liability and click confirm. You must of course, ensure you have permission to fly there before doing this. You can request permission via the Air Traffic Control (ATC) for the airport or via the Drone Assist app or map.
This process may differ in other locations or when flying in the EU.
Requesting Permission to Fly in an FRZ
An FRZ (Flight Restriction Zone) is the controlled airspace around an airport (usually a 2–2.5 nautical mile radius, plus runway protection zones). Flying inside one without permission is illegal.
Here’s what you need to do if you want to fly in an FRZ in the UK:
1. Permission from the Airfield Operator (Mandatory)
- In most cases, you must get written permission from the airport, aerodrome, or heliport that controls the FRZ. (Although I’ve seen drone pilots phone an ATC on the day to check if permission can be granted on the spot).
- This involves contacting the Air Traffic Control (ATC) unit or the Airfield Manager, which can be done via Altitude Angel’s Drone Safety Map.
- You’ll need to provide details such as:
- Your operator ID and flyer ID (issued by the UK CAA).
- The date, time, and duration of your planned flight.
- The location and altitude of your flight.
- Your insurance details (if you’re flying commercially).
Here’s an outline of the approval process:
For the first step, you’ll need to input the following information:
I’ll go into more detail in another article.
2. CAA Requirements
- You must hold the appropriate flyer ID and operator ID from the CAA.
- If you are flying under A2 CofC or GVC certification, ensure you operate within the privileges of your qualification.
- For commercial or advanced flights, you may also need an Operational Authorisation from the CAA.
3. On the Day of the Flight
- Carry proof of permission (email, letter, or NOTAM reference).
- Be prepared for contact from ATC or local police, as they sometimes verify.
- Stay within the limits agreed with the airfield.
Here’s an example of a pre-approved flight that has been uploaded to the drone safety map. It’s within an FRZ and marked with a blue circle. When clicking on the blue circle, we can see more details regarding the flight.
The Technical Side of Geofencing in Drones
Geofencing in drones is more than a simple “do not enter” line on a map; it’s a sophisticated integration of hardware, software, and connectivity systems. Here’s how it works:
1. GPS and GNSS Positioning
At the heart of geofencing is satellite-based positioning:
- GPS (Global Positioning System): Most drones use GPS satellites (from the US) to determine their exact location.
- How it works: The drone receives signals from at least four satellites to calculate its 3D position; latitude, longitude, and altitude, with meter-level accuracy.
By constantly checking its GPS coordinates against a digital map of restricted zones, the drone knows whether it is approaching or inside a no-fly area.
2. Digital Airspace Maps
Drone manufacturers and third-party services (like Altitude Angel) provide geo-databases of restricted areas. These maps are stored onboard or downloaded via an app and include:
- Permanent no-fly zones (airports, prisons, nuclear facilities)
- Temporary flight restrictions (NOTAMs, events, emergencies)
- Height limits, caution zones, and other safety overlays
The drone’s autopilot software continuously cross-references its GPS position with these maps to enforce geofencing rules. It is the pilot’s responsibility to ensure the drone’s map data is updated before every flight.
3. Flight Control Software
The drone’s flight controller uses algorithms to enforce geofencing:
- Boundary Detection: When the GPS coordinates approach a restricted zone, the controller calculates distance, speed, and trajectory relative to the zone boundary.
- Action Execution: Depending on settings, it can:
- Prevent forward motion into the zone
- Slow the drone near the boundary
- Trigger an automatic hover, return-to-home, or landing sequence
5. Redundancy and Safety Enhancements
Modern drones combine GPS with additional sensors to ensure reliable geofencing:
- IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit): Tracks movement when GPS signals are weak or blocked.
- Vision Sensors / Lidar / Ultrasonic: Help detect obstacles and maintain position relative to the ground.
- Failsafe Behaviour: If geofencing data or GPS fails, drones often automatically return home, hover, or land safely.
Tips for Flying Safely in the UK/EU
- Always check official airspace maps (CAA’s Drone Assist app in the UK, or EASA’s national maps in the EU).
- Update your DJI FlySafe database regularly in the app to ensure you have the latest restrictions.
- Never attempt to bypass geofencing illegally; penalties can include heavy fines and even criminal charges.
- Plan ahead if you need to unlock a zone, as approval can take time.
Final Thoughts
DJI’s geofencing system may feel restrictive at times, but it’s designed to keep airspace safe for everyone. For hobbyists, it acts as a safety net against accidental violations. For professionals, it provides a framework to operate responsibly while still enabling legal access when necessary.
By understanding how DJI’s geofencing and no‑fly zones work in the UK and EU, drone pilots can enjoy their flights without running into legal trouble and ensure the skies stay safe for all.