Frequently Asked Questions
If the answer to your question is not here, please ask us directly via the Contact page.
How long can you fly for?
Generally the aircraft has a 20 minute flying time, but building safety factors into this, we prefer to run for around 15
minutes at a time. The system has a failsafe mode built in, so if batteries reach a critical level, the aircraft will automatically return to the home position in plenty of time. We carry spare batteries and these can be changed very quickly, letting us take advantage of optimum flying conditions.
Generally the aircraft has a 20 minute flying time, but building safety factors into this, we prefer to run for around 15
minutes at a time. The system has a failsafe mode built in, so if batteries reach a critical level, the aircraft will automatically return to the home position in plenty of time. We carry spare batteries and these can be changed very quickly, letting us take advantage of optimum flying conditions.
Are you weather dependent?
Yes! We cannot operate the aircraft in rain, so this is a major factor when considering a flight. The aircraft can fly in stronger winds, but in a lot of cases it is better to postpone the flight to more favourable conditions. If a flight is cancelled due to weather, the photo shoot will be postponed at no cost to you. We want the best results for our clients and are prepared to wait to achieve these.
Yes! We cannot operate the aircraft in rain, so this is a major factor when considering a flight. The aircraft can fly in stronger winds, but in a lot of cases it is better to postpone the flight to more favourable conditions. If a flight is cancelled due to weather, the photo shoot will be postponed at no cost to you. We want the best results for our clients and are prepared to wait to achieve these.
What aircraft do you use?
We have the state of the art 'DJI Phantom 3' quadcopter. Future plans include acquiring a DJI Inspire quadcopter too.
We have the state of the art 'DJI Phantom 3' quadcopter. Future plans include acquiring a DJI Inspire quadcopter too.
How high and far can you go?
We operate under CAA regulations and the limit is 121m (400ft). The aircraft has a range from the receiver of 2km, but must be in line of sight at all times. Even though you will not see it at this distance, there must be no obstacles in the way. Although it is possible to get special permission, we cannot fly within 4km of an airport, unless under the direct supervision of Pilot's licence holder.
We operate under CAA regulations and the limit is 121m (400ft). The aircraft has a range from the receiver of 2km, but must be in line of sight at all times. Even though you will not see it at this distance, there must be no obstacles in the way. Although it is possible to get special permission, we cannot fly within 4km of an airport, unless under the direct supervision of Pilot's licence holder.
Do you have a Pilot's Licence?
No. But... our safety and technical director is the holder of a commercial pilot's licence and currently works for Cathay Pacific as a pilot. He is regularly back in NZ, so any flights that require the presence of a pilot, will be scheduled for when he is back in NZ.
No. But... our safety and technical director is the holder of a commercial pilot's licence and currently works for Cathay Pacific as a pilot. He is regularly back in NZ, so any flights that require the presence of a pilot, will be scheduled for when he is back in NZ.
Do you take video / pictures and hope they're good enough?
No. The Phantom 3 provides a livestream of the camera view, letting us position the aircraft to obtain the best views possible and minimise the airtime required to achieve desired results.
No. The Phantom 3 provides a livestream of the camera view, letting us position the aircraft to obtain the best views possible and minimise the airtime required to achieve desired results.
