DJI F550 Hexacopter crash after flight above the clouds

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  • Опубліковано 12 тра 2024
  • -- PLEASE READ ALL INFO BELOW BEFORE POSTING! --
    I planned to perform a short GPS controlled high altitude flight, going straight up, and then straight down again.
    When initating the descent, something did not work out as expected, and less than ten minutes later the hexacopter crashed because the failed descent attempts had drained the battery.
    Technical explanation to what actually happened:
    The GPS mode prioritized staying in place over descending. The winds were so strong that the engines had to work hard to keep the multirotor in place. When I told the multirotor to descend it basically said "I'm afraid I can't do that, because you told me to stay in this position, and if I slow down the motors to descend, I would also start moving sideways with the wind". The solution was to disengage the GPS mode.
    Important background information:
    This video depicts a very dangerous situation that could have ended up much worse than it actually did.
    I was very lucky not to cause any damage on the ground to either living beings or property.
    I am not proud of this particular flight, and my main reason for putting the video on UA-cam is to inform others and hopefully help them avoid making the same mistake(s) I did.
    My arguments for performing a high altitude flight at all were as follows:
    - No airplanes in this area ever fly as low as I did in the video
    - There is generally not much air traffic in this area at all
    - I checked with flightradar24.com before flying
    - Military, police, and emergency flights are virtually non-existant in this area
    - The multirotor was supposed to go straight up and straight down again
    Knowing all of this, I still realize it was a mistake flying that high, especially on this particular occasion. The wind on the ground was not very strong, but higher up, the wind was so strong that the hexacopter had to struggle to stay in position. When I started descending, the hexacopter did not seem to respond to my command, and the only way to make it respond was to disconnect the GPS mode. It then started descending, but it also started moving away with the wind.
    Facts to be noted before commenting on the video:
    I DO NOT PERFORM HIGH ALTITUDE FLIGHTS ANYMORE, NOR DO I FLY OVER POPULATED AREAS. Hence, it is unnecessary to ask me to stop flying like I did in the video, since it definitely won't happen again anyway. The crash was a harsh wakeup call that totally made me rethink my attitude towards multirotor flying, and I realize now that high altitude flights and flights over populated areas are way too risky and dangerous.
    THE MULTIROTOR DID NOT CAUSE ANY DAMAGE ON THE GROUND, TO EITHER PEOPLE, ANIMALS, OR PROPERTY. Having said this, I am fully aware that something disastrous could have happened, and there is no need to keep reminding me about that fact.
    I WAS CONFIDENT THAT THE MULTIROTOR WOULD AUTOMATICALLY PERFORM A CONTROLLED LANDING IF THE BATTERY LEVEL REACHED ITS SPECIFIED MINIMUM. After reading the documentation, I felt reassured knowing that I had specified two battery level limits, where the second (lowest) limit, if reached, would initiate a forced automatic landing. Apparently this never happened, so this was either a misunderstanding on my behalf, or unclear documentation, or a combination of both.
    Also, I do not live in the US, so the FAA will probably not be too interested in this flight.
    My advice to any and all multirotor flyers out there: Never ever take any unnecessary risks. It is never worth it. I got away with it this time, but I could as well have ended up hurting or even killing someone on the ground.
    00:00 - Ascent
    01:09 - Through the clouds
    02:20 - Above the clouds
    03:10 - Problems start
    04:07 - GPS disconnect
    04:16 - Slow descent
    05:18 - Return To Home activated
    06:20 - Manual descent
    07:47 - Below the clouds
    08:05 - Batteries almost depleted
    08:44 - Batteries die
    09:12 - Aftermath
    09:41 - Crash in slowmotion
    Equipment:
    - Frame: DJI F550
    - Gyro: DJI Naza v2 with GPS
    - Gimbal: DJI Zenmuse H3-2D
    - Camera: GoPro Hero3, Black Edition
    - Radio: Futaba T14SG with receiver R7008SB
    - Battery: Li-Po 4S (14.8V), 6200 mAh
    - Motors: Stock F550 (DJI 2212/920)
    - Esc: Stock F550 (DJI ESC 30 amps OPTO)
    - Propellers: Stock DJI 10"
  • Наука та технологія

КОМЕНТАРІ • 22 тис.

  • @nsmith1554
    @nsmith1554 7 років тому +5383

    As a private pilot, this stunt is horrifying. Typical cruise altitude for a normal local flight over populated areas (in an actual passenger carrying airplane or helicopter) is 2500 to 3500 feet; lower if climbing from or descending to an airport. If by some miracle I were able to see and avoid this tiny spec while traveling at 130-160 knots, I definitely would not be able to see it while flying on instruments through those clouds. Drone Operators everywhere, please take note: flying above 500 feet poses a danger to aircraft as well as those on the ground when that aircraft is disabled due to a midair with a drone (not to mention whoever the dead drone hits on the ground). Taking a drone hit to the windshield can be a death sentence anyone on board or critically disable the aircraft. You certainly wouldn't drop a rock from a highway overpass onto cars, yet this would have the same affect. Even attempting to land with damaged prop, engine, tire or landing gear strut endangers lives of all on board. This isn't a rage post. Simply stating one of my worst fears as a pilot. Not only do I have to look out for other aircraft and birds, I now have to watch for drones flying illegally in controlled airspace. Please keep it safe.

    • @funtimess2995
      @funtimess2995 7 років тому +149

      You guys should fight with FAA and have drones equipped with ADS-B. Now you can buy done size ADS-B for 175 dollars. Worth every penny.

    • @stephenkempe3586
      @stephenkempe3586 7 років тому +32

      Thats a very good idea

    • @someoftheabove4558
      @someoftheabove4558 7 років тому +83

      N Smith can you please use numbers that normal people understand
      feet and knots...

    • @funtimess2995
      @funtimess2995 7 років тому +56

      You response is a classic example why there should be drones laws and everyone should be licensed..lol (yes I get you sarcasm)

    • @PaulIngram85
      @PaulIngram85 6 років тому +149

      +Ruben Manz Feet and knots are standard units of measure used in aviation. If you do not understand what they mean, it's likely you have zero involvement with aviation. If you do and you STILL don't understand what they mean, you should stop. Immediately. And then seriously learn aviation basics before touching anything that flies.
      However, to clarify, 1 foot is 30.48cm. The legal altitude (height) a drone can fly in the UK (using UK as an example, as I'm in the UK and not aware of drone flight rules in other countries) is 400 feet (121.9m). 130 knots is 150mph, 160 knots is 184mph.

  • @billycasper3351
    @billycasper3351 5 років тому +4704

    Come on guys, let's give a round of applause for the guy who returned it honestly

    • @crazy55rider7
      @crazy55rider7 5 років тому +74

      Probably thought he would get a reward.

    • @StefanEkstam
      @StefanEkstam  5 років тому +369

      Crazy55 Rider He did get a reward, though he said he didn’t want one...

    • @scooterfpv8864
      @scooterfpv8864 5 років тому +15

      @@hoenn4ever829 Though he means well with this video . . . it reinforces the others with deep commercial and semi-governmental pockets on the global scale with hidden agendas are using this video for monetary gains to sway the majority opinion against the responsible hobbyists that will bury any rights for and all bright eyed kid who simply wants to experience (But futuristically may not be able to) , the thrill of flight with toy and hobby drones with new eyes in my opinion . (-_-)

    • @karldonald748
      @karldonald748 5 років тому +25

      @@scooterfpv8864 Say what what now

    • @timothystark4475
      @timothystark4475 5 років тому +10

      @@scooterfpv8864 That sounds like act of greed/pride to me.

  • @adford69
    @adford69 2 роки тому +113

    Glad no one got hurt. It's scary when we assume technology is bullet proof or that the designers thought of everything we might do with it. Even if the designers thought of something, they might not have had the time, resources or development budget to implement that "something". Thanks for posting Stefan! Videos like this help everyone learn some of that "common sense" without having to go thru it themselves.

    • @quietquitter6103
      @quietquitter6103 Рік тому +9

      You shouldn't use something that can harm others or property to learn common sense, you're supposed to already possess it.

    • @Chriscam2you
      @Chriscam2you Рік тому +1

      Scary? It’s down right moronic, this shmuck should be bricked trousers down, head in a barrel of swine urine.

    • @underscore_tip
      @underscore_tip Рік тому

      its a custom drone

    • @pear-zq1uj
      @pear-zq1uj 2 дні тому

      wait until you realize people make their own drones in their house with parts they buy off the internet

  • @toriabakar5331
    @toriabakar5331 9 місяців тому +14

    Thank you for warning us not to cross certain limits. I'm sorry about your drone my friend.

  • @ihatecrackhead
    @ihatecrackhead 3 роки тому +3625

    I always send my drones to high altitudes with a low battery. it guarantees i get it back faster

    • @hardysword8077
      @hardysword8077 3 роки тому +58

      Lol

    • @neysb2133
      @neysb2133 3 роки тому +29

      Lol

    • @acefromwithin2079
      @acefromwithin2079 3 роки тому +48

      @Tel Aviv you wont reach the edge of space with a drone

    • @gecko56
      @gecko56 3 роки тому +35

      @Tel Aviv You can actually measure the curvature of the earth! go to the ocean and perform the measurements and you will see a slight curve. not visible to the naked eye, but it's there.

    • @wiktor3453
      @wiktor3453 3 роки тому +22

      @Tel Aviv bruh are you really a flat earther?

  • @trazyntheinfinite9895
    @trazyntheinfinite9895 4 роки тому +1584

    pro tip: if you go into the mountains, you can start above the clouds already!

  • @happybanana3040
    @happybanana3040 2 роки тому +86

    Always come back watching this video. Equally entertaining and nerve wracking. Drones are brilliant aerial machines. It has been an amazing journey looking back. DJI drones are rocking the game right now.

    • @bick_flashoninstagram2491
      @bick_flashoninstagram2491 2 роки тому

      .........👆👆👆
      consult this technical support for any complain, request or enquiry.
      Thank you!

    • @getsideways7257
      @getsideways7257 2 роки тому +2

      Brilliant... Until they hit you on the head in an attempt to get back down from FL30...

    • @pappyodanial
      @pappyodanial 2 роки тому

      Are you blind, this made in China trash's fail safe doesn't calculate altitude, attitude, and battery. And it's made by a company that is completely controlled by the CCP and spies on us because they are, you know, sew smewl. Do not buy DJI.

    • @yodad4776
      @yodad4776 Рік тому

      Check out the rippton range ..actually have some better stuff ..I'm loving the mobular

  • @joshgamingyt9766
    @joshgamingyt9766 2 роки тому +154

    Safety first always. Thanks for the heads up and reminder. This is clearly a learning experience. Impressive range on this drone.

    • @pappyodanial
      @pappyodanial 2 роки тому +1

      The CCP is using them to spy on us.

    • @kitten-whisperer
      @kitten-whisperer 2 роки тому +1

      @Bat Soup go take your meds

    • @paddington1670
      @paddington1670 2 роки тому

      Yes thanks for the reminder to do sh1t better

    • @Chimera_Photography
      @Chimera_Photography 2 роки тому +2

      @@kitten-whisperer They’re actually not lying. Did you know that every time you fly the drone it sends back pictures to dji in the flight logs? I can only imagine the global database of geotagged images that DJI has, and could be turned over at the drop of a hat.

    • @kitten-whisperer
      @kitten-whisperer 2 роки тому

      @@Chimera_Photography oh well

  • @austingarland8242
    @austingarland8242 3 роки тому +2583

    Ah yes. The reason we have so many rules and need a license to fly our Mavic’s now. Good job.

    • @kinzery5274
      @kinzery5274 3 роки тому +74

      Dude I know bruh so slow cause of things like this just follow the rules they are simple

    • @DuskLegend
      @DuskLegend 3 роки тому +121

      Leave him alone we should all be able to cruise above the clouds

    • @austingarland8242
      @austingarland8242 3 роки тому +326

      @@DuskLegend no. As a pilot, you definitely shouldn’t. And you can’t. Unless you want to be fined by the FAA now thankfully.

    • @DuskLegend
      @DuskLegend 3 роки тому +69

      @@austingarland8242 you should and you can, quite easily

    • @austingarland8242
      @austingarland8242 3 роки тому +190

      @@DuskLegend nope. Especially if you fly DJI. You’re software limited. I love it. Too many dumbasses out there. Obviously 👀

  • @ghost_ship_supreme
    @ghost_ship_supreme 4 роки тому +1318

    “Do, how did you solve the icing problem?”
    “Icing problem?”

    • @parkerrollins774
      @parkerrollins774 4 роки тому +75

      First iron man?

    • @alexanderc4355
      @alexanderc4355 4 роки тому +51

      This is why they don’t let monkeys fly real planes. They don’t even know that icing is a danger inherent to flying.

    • @baramile6703
      @baramile6703 4 роки тому +5

      Looolllllllll

    • @Jimmy-eg1wc
      @Jimmy-eg1wc 4 роки тому +12

      might wanna look into it. *BONK*

    • @aschouten9405
      @aschouten9405 4 роки тому +28

      LoL... icing appears only with cold air, moisture air... AND SPEED.... A drone doesnt have enough speed..... lol

  • @carlgallagher1357
    @carlgallagher1357 Рік тому +20

    I'm 8 years late here, but I'm surprised you didn't find it on your own. You looked down at that patch of trees between the neighborhoods, and landed it exactly there. The go pro footage shows it landed not far from those yellow apartments pretty shallow in the treeline. Either way, cool video.

    • @cherpsy3770
      @cherpsy3770 Рік тому +4

      his screen went black so he had know idea where it landed, and trust me some of the most obvious things can get lost, even where you no exactly where to look

  • @AHSEN.
    @AHSEN. 7 місяців тому +7

    In a situation like this, would you be able to just reduce the motors to say 10%, allowing them only to maintain orientation until it's low enough to fly back home manually?

    • @Hunter_Bidens_Crackpipe_
      @Hunter_Bidens_Crackpipe_ Місяць тому +1

      Its obvious he doesnt know what hes doing

    • @GreenTrilby
      @GreenTrilby Місяць тому +1

      That’s a great idea, I wonder if there’s a special mode out there designed for controlled descent with low voltage

  • @StefanEkstam
    @StefanEkstam  10 років тому +554

    +lasourisaboyante You claim that the flight was "very, very illegal". Actually, it was not. Irresponsible, dangerous, and unnecessary, yes. But not illegal. In Sweden, there are recommendations and guidelines concerning multirotor flying, but no actual regulations that could make the flight illegal unless I actually caused some real damage. This is not to say that I will ever attempt to fly like this again, but I still want to point out that I'm not posting proof of illegal behavior on UA-cam.

    • @ps3customgamer
      @ps3customgamer 9 років тому +2

      ***** troll

    • @VARSAL
      @VARSAL 9 років тому

      Stefan Ekstam Tested: DJI Phantom Quadcopter Drone IN SNOW : ua-cam.com/video/Lz9Tmaukx6Q/v-deo.html

    • @57HarleyDavidson
      @57HarleyDavidson 8 років тому

      jonathan connor How is it illegal to fly into clouds?

    • @wollyxl
      @wollyxl 8 років тому

      Because as a pilot you'd need an IFR rating witch this video owner has non.

    • @57HarleyDavidson
      @57HarleyDavidson 8 років тому

      Jurgen Bach What is illegal about it? i don't see anything wrong with flying a drone that high

  • @WisdomVendor1
    @WisdomVendor1 4 роки тому +807

    Phone rings...
    Copter owner : Hello
    Unknown : Hey Dude, I found your quadcopter
    Copter owner : I have a hexacopter
    Unknown : Not any more...now it's a quadcopter.

  • @kevinlane9801
    @kevinlane9801 2 роки тому +7

    Rock on to the good Samaritan who found the drone and had the decency to return the rightful owner 👍👍 it's always nice to hear that there are still a few honest people out there in this messed up world we live in today. Keep it real and rock on everyone 🤘😝🤘

  • @Nil_Bloxd
    @Nil_Bloxd 4 місяці тому +2

    Bro, this vid is like a movie. well done! you earned my subscribtion and a like!!😆

  • @120bpm_music
    @120bpm_music 3 роки тому +1005

    Maybe you got a chance to save it if you perform an emergency propeller stop, let it free fall, and restart again.

    • @Irkin_Bollikans
      @Irkin_Bollikans 3 роки тому +41

      Epic

    • @crvpted
      @crvpted 3 роки тому +10

      lol

    • @aviationist
      @aviationist 3 роки тому +36

      My thoughts as well. It's what I would've tried.

    • @andyx4506
      @andyx4506 3 роки тому +62

      Since that drones aren't so heavy, I'm assuming at such a high altitude, even above the clouds, most likely get blown away by the wind. Without the GPS, it would be hard to find the drone as well. Also, when your drone can't move, your not likely to think much anyways, more of a panic.

    • @ryang7720
      @ryang7720 3 роки тому +17

      Exactly my thoughts. Not sure how he expected to land this thing any other way. This thing was destined to crash. Hard to watch this footage. Bummer.

  • @jefazo
    @jefazo 7 років тому +253

    Why doesnt these drones (specially expnesive ones) have a parachute? I guess it is really easy to mount one with 1 basic buttom system to open, it can safe its life from a high fall down and avoid to hurt other people.

    • @sericopie
      @sericopie 7 років тому +9

      They're too heavy

    • @GoWILDization
      @GoWILDization 7 років тому +7

      No... You can get them

    • @jefazo
      @jefazo 7 років тому +2

      Bardo I dont think a small parachute is heavy, sure there must be somewhere.

    • @sericopie
      @sericopie 7 років тому +5

      masacre23 Im not sure but I feel like a drone needs to be as light as possible.

    • @GoWILDization
      @GoWILDization 7 років тому +2

      Bardo You can get them. But I guess they'll drain the battery a bit more depending on how heavy it is

  • @andrewwroblewski6691
    @andrewwroblewski6691 Рік тому +4

    thats one amazing video, and I like the written commentaries on the video. As you say, you had done this before, so what could possibly go wrong?. Interesting how the drone does indeed sound different when in the clouds, and the view of as much of the front propellors as possible makes the whole video even more "gripping". You did a great job, and I do like the end part, posting notes around the area, same as someone who had lost their cat. But at least .... well I wont spoil the end bit. Thanks again Andy (UK)

  • @trwoody1
    @trwoody1 Рік тому

    Great video
    Curious, what town did you make that video in? Looks Iike the crowded hell of the northeast

  • @MrNangoo
    @MrNangoo 9 років тому +67

    I have no idea about the legalities but I have to say once you started watching, it was pretty hard to stop. I found it utterly riveting, best 10 mins on youtube..

  • @andrewflath6916
    @andrewflath6916 3 роки тому +191

    My anxiety levels just learned a new high.

  • @AkshathKothapalli
    @AkshathKothapalli 4 місяці тому +2

    Damn, im more surprised how the hell it still was in one piece even though it lost a few motors, but still, its insane how it was still kind of intact from a fall that high

  • @jamesiiichildofGod
    @jamesiiichildofGod 2 роки тому +1

    Wooo thrilling yet DANGEROUS. THANK God no one hurt & you salvage the wreck. Thank you for sharing 👍

  • @tyguy6296
    @tyguy6296 7 років тому +82

    wow...
    i have been watching drone videos all day and i gotta say i have never seen a saltier community

    • @Stewi1014
      @Stewi1014 7 років тому +2

      The community is actually the best community I've ever seen. You're just seeing all the dickheads commenting on a youtube video that really have nothing to do with the hobby.

    • @tyguy6296
      @tyguy6296 7 років тому +2

      Stewi1014 all communities say that...

    • @Stewi1014
      @Stewi1014 7 років тому +2

      Ty Guy I'm not really interested in what other communities do tbh.
      The fact remains I haven't seen a single educated hobbyist here yet.

    • @LarryTL
      @LarryTL 7 років тому +1

      Ty Guy omfg you should see the Minecraft PvP community

    • @zacjohnson8404
      @zacjohnson8404 7 років тому +3

      League of Legends community is where it's at! Just kidding, so toxic.
      What's wrong with this community? Everyone in my experience has been great, and if you bump into another drone guy down at the park they're always friendly and ready for a chat. I have been offered tons of advice online and have learned a lot from all the hard work people have put into producing articles and video guides.
      DJI owners seem a bit salty sometimes, I don't know why though, overpriced and not up to their expectations?

  • @sanjogh777
    @sanjogh777 5 років тому +392

    Tony Stark, "How did you solve the icing problem?"

    • @krenn08
      @krenn08 5 років тому +7

      LMAO

    • @camgard13
      @camgard13 5 років тому +4

      Good one

    • @DlcEnergy
      @DlcEnergy 5 років тому +14

      8:52 icing... problem. **BONK**

    • @luckyeddy350
      @luckyeddy350 5 років тому +1

      Excellent.

    • @leobode7746
      @leobode7746 5 років тому +2

      What do you watch, flat or Kamera?

  • @alejofox10
    @alejofox10 Рік тому

    I haven’t been so tense in a while… I was stressing out dude!

  • @perrytomlin5068
    @perrytomlin5068 Рік тому

    Wow this video is a good example of what not to do while flying a drone. How many drone laws you plan on breaking in one flight?

  • @williamcrane8236
    @williamcrane8236 2 роки тому +679

    Thanks for all the new regulations we have now and the FAA registration and new links on where we can fly. You and the people like you have done a banner job.

    • @lawrencebarnes6893
      @lawrencebarnes6893 Рік тому +115

      flying a drone in clouds where a general aviation plane could be flying on an instrument flight plan, is not a great idea. I wish drone operators would not do that.

    • @ns7353
      @ns7353 Рік тому +2

      @@lawrencebarnes6893 you dont say? of course it is prohibited and morons like the person who posted the video ruined it for all operators.

    • @Heyman1982
      @Heyman1982 Рік тому +39

      It was only a matter of time before it was regulated.

    • @TheKittyClink
      @TheKittyClink Рік тому +18

      @@ohmygodmyspleen5219 I javr about 15 hours on a robbie, but I'm a fixed wing pilot flying small planes right now. And yes I don't want to be desending into drones on IFR or some shit

    • @trolojolo6178
      @trolojolo6178 Рік тому +25

      @@ohmygodmyspleen5219 don't be so selfish. The sky doesn't belong to you. It's a free country.

  • @Fly92352
    @Fly92352 3 роки тому +530

    From a pilots perspective, this looks like a crash waiting to happen, not for your drone, but for us with passengers in the back seats. Hopefully you’re doing your due diligence with clearances through ATC so your fun in the clouds doesn’t cost someone heartache.

    • @flashlinemediaconsultancy8543
      @flashlinemediaconsultancy8543 2 роки тому +9

      I’ve done this, but it was through low cloud, 350ft, as could see the sun peeking through so I knew the vertical volume was that great, but you are exactly right on what you say, as before I sent it up I checked the airport D&A, the airport is 11 miles away in a diameter line, I checked the weather, the wind speed, as the reason why I captured the footage was a film tribute I am doing to 2 people who lost their life within 5 months of each other,

    • @MsZahnpasta
      @MsZahnpasta 2 роки тому +15

      From a air traffic controller perspective I have nothing to add.

    • @thefixer8457
      @thefixer8457 2 роки тому +36

      from a part 107 drone certificates holders perspective...max altitude for drone flight is 400ft....no closer than 200ft to any ceiling. plus he was flying a drone solo with no spotter..the list goes on..this was reckless at best...if this isnt the US then oh well I guess the laws overseas for drone flight are way less restrictive....

    • @flashlinemediaconsultancy8543
      @flashlinemediaconsultancy8543 2 роки тому +3

      @@thefixer8457 I planned my flight a year in advance, as the situation had to be right, with patchy low cloud was a bonus, there was a few times I would start my journey then cancel as the wind picked up, the cloud evaporated due to the heat of the sun, the vertical volumetric cloud was too high, the airport 11 miles away would have changed their schedule due to A+D, my ears were used as well, for listening up for Aircraft (Military Aircraft/private charters), I do not think the guy here acted in a malicious manner, although a curious one at that.

    • @trumptookthevaccine1679
      @trumptookthevaccine1679 2 роки тому +16

      @@flashlinemediaconsultancy8543 this was reckless

  • @tarstunisianaerospaceandrocket
    @tarstunisianaerospaceandrocket 7 місяців тому

    Thank you this video helps me in my research

  • @inkyspirets2460
    @inkyspirets2460 7 місяців тому

    dam 9 years later this is still crazy

  • @jamesugborough8895
    @jamesugborough8895 8 років тому +195

    I have read your description and would like to add something. I am a private airplane pilot in the UK. My plane does not have a transponder which means it will not appear on flight radar 24. I have had a near miss with a drone before and it would have been catastrophic if we had collided. Drones are near impossible to see as they are so small and light aircraft on VFR flights are generally restricted to staying below the base of the clouds (unless the clouds are scattered) and it is safe to climb above.
    If someone else is thinking about copying this just bare in mind that if your drone drops out of the cloud and a plane were to hit it you are going to be going to prison. The pilot and passengers would lose their lives and if the plane were to crash into a crowd of people then the scope for a major accident is huge.

    • @ScottB79
      @ScottB79 8 років тому +8

      I just watched this and read his description, and I was going to say the same thing about the flightradar24. Good call James.

    • @FastEasyLifeTips
      @FastEasyLifeTips 8 років тому +14

      chances of hitting plane: miniscule. Chances of hitting control surface/prop: even smaller. Chances of doing catastrophic damage even if it did...very small. You could much more easily hit a flight of geese.

    • @jamesugborough8895
      @jamesugborough8895 8 років тому +11

      But the goose would die and wouldn't be held accountable. The drone pilot wont die and would be held accountable.

    • @SpontaneousPrick
      @SpontaneousPrick 8 років тому +40

      This isn't the kind of risk you can justify by saying the chances of it happening are small because the consequences would be catastrophic. People would die, and if it happened above an urban area like the idiot who took this video then the chances of more deaths on the ground would be high*. I love drones but people who fly like that twat are going to get them banned.

    • @morgidvmw0mdv
      @morgidvmw0mdv 8 років тому +1

      Here Here!!

  • @Bozemancurtis
    @Bozemancurtis 7 років тому +227

    Thanks for sharing. I appreciate that you put this out there so we can all learn a lesson and not have a similar issue. For the record this was shown in a 107 certification prep class as an example of what can happen when a drone is using a bunch of thrust to fight the wind, which makes it hard for the drone to descend. That's what our instructor thought the issue probably was. That's why the drone didn't want to descend when it was holding position on the GPS.

    • @StefanEkstam
      @StefanEkstam  7 років тому +52

      Great to know it has been used for education purposes, that makes me really happy. And yes, that's exactly my analysis of what happened too, so I think your instructor was right on.

    • @davida1hiwaaynet
      @davida1hiwaaynet 7 років тому +7

      Great information, thanks again for sharing this and pointing me to this comment.

    • @SpencerChesney
      @SpencerChesney 6 років тому +23

      Was the subject in class, "People that endanger others carelessly?"

    • @xLaChance77
      @xLaChance77 6 років тому +3

      Curtis Johnson you are very stupid bud

    • @flowingtripod2770
      @flowingtripod2770 6 років тому +30

      he hit his fail switch and then turned the drone to the trees to try and not hit anyone, he feels bad about it and put this video out there to warn other dont be a jerk and dont be stupid

  • @ngotuanhien
    @ngotuanhien 7 місяців тому

    Thank for sharing!

  • @gmg325
    @gmg325 Рік тому

    Bummer man. That thing is rad tho. Need pilot license for that eh? What's the ball park that? If ya don't mind. What ya think of autel?

  • @snova7437
    @snova7437 4 роки тому +60

    “And the camera still spinning after it hit the ground” yeah maybe cuz the damn thing hit terminal velocity 😂😂

    • @sock1425
      @sock1425 3 роки тому +2

      @Tel Aviv because the earth is gigantic, even at that height your gonna only be looking at a baby bit of earth, making it look flat

    • @mranonymous481
      @mranonymous481 3 роки тому

      @Tel Aviv it's not that high.

    • @Grizzboy2
      @Grizzboy2 3 роки тому

      @Tel Aviv 1,000 meters up is literally nothing compared to the earth

  • @NSUScooter
    @NSUScooter 4 роки тому +1320

    This is precisely why the FAA is going batshit over drones. You are in airplane territory

    • @socrates_the_great6209
      @socrates_the_great6209 4 роки тому +74

      Yeah, but it is typical humanity to do stupid things by pushing limits too far.

    • @matmamat9690
      @matmamat9690 4 роки тому +64

      Are you Stupid or what? Didn't you read the video description? Also normal flights altitude is more than 10000 ft 🙄

    • @NSUScooter
      @NSUScooter 4 роки тому +68

      Mat Mamat normal doesn’t = commercial airliners...... But if you wanna be technical, 500ft is the minimum
      www.faa.gov/about/office_org/field_offices/fsdo/lgb/local_more/media/FAA_Guide_to_Low-Flying_Aircraft.pdf

    • @nobaddaystravel6855
      @nobaddaystravel6855 4 роки тому +105

      Mat Mamat partially correct. General aviation aircraft fly anywhere from
      3000 feet to 10,000 feet. So there IS a danger to manned aircraft. This guy is IRRESPONSIBLE.

    • @dodgeyhodgey5301
      @dodgeyhodgey5301 4 роки тому +41

      Pretty dumb mate. There is a drone code for a reason you numpty.

  • @50buttfish
    @50buttfish 7 місяців тому

    Flew mine thru a very dense low fog, made it up to clear space, about 2k ft AGL, upon returning my drone was soaked, but still functioned. This was a straight up and down flight, so no other air traffic should be in my space. Yea, I WAS licensed, but my drone did a high speed head down crash, destroyed.

  • @tiramisu8359
    @tiramisu8359 7 років тому +107

    they should have free fall mode. and activate the rotor when entering safe zone just like sky dive. this will preserve the battery and faster descend.

    • @Keifer-D
      @Keifer-D 7 років тому +6

      tiramisu - what they should do, is have like my electric vehicle (car), is have a regeneration mode, where when the motor spins because of movement (when battery drained) and it recharges the battery. then it can regain control to land. not sure if that would work, but it sure does on a wind turbine charging a battery.

    • @therruefalse9984
      @therruefalse9984 7 років тому +16

      tiramisu But there would be a high risk that the drone could flip over and then it's fucked.

    • @tobzuu5267
      @tobzuu5267 7 років тому

      falsE the decent could overpower the motor's power tho

    • @therruefalse9984
      @therruefalse9984 7 років тому

      Tobi Akande Yes, so here is my statement: thau shall lower the power consumption and usage while descending.

    • @domi7411
      @domi7411 7 років тому +8

      I fucking love tiramisu!!!!!!

  • @liquidSpin
    @liquidSpin 7 років тому +51

    Where's Superman when you need him?

  • @wwerty234
    @wwerty234 7 місяців тому

    its crazy that you try to defend this in the description, the first thing I'm doing if I'm going to do a high attitude flight is check the wind speed 500 feet above what I'm planning on. its also very illegal to do what you are doing right now

  • @rickydeldo8596
    @rickydeldo8596 7 місяців тому +1

    Thank you for shareing.

  • @JP1970
    @JP1970 5 років тому +7

    Wow, I just watched this and was quite impressed with the footage and the fact that all seemed to work out, for the most part. Lesson learned, buddy - Thank you!

  • @dbpooper7512
    @dbpooper7512 8 років тому +1486

    You should have shut the thing off and let it freefall, then switched it back on at the last moment just in time for a dramatic six-inches-off-the-ground hover. I'm sure it would have worked.
    Great footage BTW. Quite an interesting adventure in modern technology.

    • @orion310591RS
      @orion310591RS 8 років тому +11

      +Sérgio Tricarico At least, in controlled situation to power off engines, he turn them off all at once, when batteries run out of power, they dis-balance aircraft if one or few engines working and rest not working.

    • @uzeeyo
      @uzeeyo 8 років тому +43

      +DB Pooper if he let it freefall from that height he wouldnt be able to stop it when he turns it back on because it wouldve gained too much speed

    • @theraserrayfish3048
      @theraserrayfish3048 8 років тому +3

      That's fucking stupid you can't make fire things out of a machine

    • @theraserrayfish3048
      @theraserrayfish3048 8 років тому +3

      Unless it was made for it

    • @aviatrix2
      @aviatrix2 8 років тому +39

      I've done that before just to see if it would work, and it works fine. Due to its space-frame construction creating an effect similar to that of a wiffle ball, it reaches terminal velocity fairly quick, which seems to be around 60 MPH. Letting it free-fall for a couple thousand feet could have likely brought it home, or at least to a safe landing.

  • @bongkbalthomofficial4722
    @bongkbalthomofficial4722 2 роки тому

    amazing video! Keep up the good work

  • @MrRajeshkpy
    @MrRajeshkpy 2 роки тому

    Loved it! But it could have been potentially dangerous…did u figured it out ,how u could have avoided the crash?

  • @grayg6918
    @grayg6918 4 роки тому +467

    Drones are not supposed to be at plane altitudes

    • @Saffins
      @Saffins 4 роки тому +28

      Planes fly wayyyy higher then that

    • @bababooey9390
      @bababooey9390 4 роки тому +9

      It’s not really a drone it’s a quadcopter, which actually are meant for high flights.

    • @Quatuux
      @Quatuux 4 роки тому +125

      @@bababooey9390 "It’s not really a drone it’s a quadcopter, which actually are meant for high flights."
      You earned the award of the dumbest comment, congrats!

    • @maximus6138
      @maximus6138 4 роки тому +3

      @@Quatuux lmfao

    • @deadlybladesmith3093
      @deadlybladesmith3093 4 роки тому +20

      @@NoMercyRC actually, civilian small aircraft DONT fly higher than that. Maybe you should check your "facts" before you make another false statement, "dummy"
      Edit: they CAN fly higher than that, but what's the point if they are out for a joyride.

  • @quickpickle
    @quickpickle 8 років тому +744

    I think they should design these with small parachutes so when the engines cut at altitude the chute deploys.

    • @StefanEkstam
      @StefanEkstam  8 років тому +72

      +Alex S Just wait, you'll hear more about that idea soon. :)

    • @quickpickle
      @quickpickle 8 років тому +10

      Stefan Ekstam cool!

    • @muj_siuuu
      @muj_siuuu 8 років тому +3

      +Alex S i agree :D

    • @victorsvidss
      @victorsvidss 8 років тому +25

      +Alex S what if i told you.... that would weigh it down making the engines require more power to life the extra weight which would make the batteries have to be bigger making the entire drone a larger size which also rises the price. Good idea! ;D

    • @doceigen
      @doceigen 8 років тому

      +Alex S They? The owner should have.

  • @icamtoseeyou2574
    @icamtoseeyou2574 2 роки тому +78

    Wow! Drones are simply amazing. Definitely learned from this video.

  • @yodad4776
    @yodad4776 Рік тому +1

    What u need to remember is 2 fold 1 the air is thinner at altitude ..every so many meters the air gets thinner so your props get less effective the higher u are wasting energy AND the wind behaves very differently at different altitudes and if you were in the zone between two areas u might have been getting a lot of downwards wind rather than sideways ....
    I always get down before accross and activating return to home ..I tend to follow the GPS arrow when I'm at distance to as the camera can delay and if u get out on the fringes the auto return won't work even with occusync

  • @Mile504.
    @Mile504. 4 роки тому +686

    At least you can buy a new one with 12M views🤷🏽‍♂️

    • @johnrussell3169
      @johnrussell3169 4 роки тому +13

      That's only a few hundred dollars

    • @combatwarfootageofficial111
      @combatwarfootageofficial111 4 роки тому +55

      @@johnrussell3169 Nah I run a monetized page (not this one) and you can easily make $1000-2500 per 1m views assuming the video has ads.

    • @jgphotography7746
      @jgphotography7746 4 роки тому +7

      It’s more like $1000 per every million

    • @maximus6138
      @maximus6138 4 роки тому +5

      @@jgphotography7746 nah its abo it 2 grand. Depends how you do it though

    • @jgphotography7746
      @jgphotography7746 4 роки тому

      E- Clipse no.

  • @fedoy.photography
    @fedoy.photography 3 роки тому +141

    Pilots also above the clouds: Wow, that bird is fast!

    • @robun3310
      @robun3310 3 роки тому +2

      Imagine a plane just flies through lmao

    • @hellopeter9083
      @hellopeter9083 2 роки тому +1

      @@robun3310 well plans are 40k feet up he’s probably only 1k feet up

    • @robun3310
      @robun3310 2 роки тому +1

      @@hellopeter9083 oh im dumb sorry

    • @samymodelisme1583
      @samymodelisme1583 2 роки тому +8

      @@robun3310 and tourist planes, and rescue helicopters (firefighter, police, etc.)... it's realy dangerous

    • @iiCounted2134
      @iiCounted2134 2 роки тому

      lmao

  • @crakt7015
    @crakt7015 8 місяців тому +1

    Hey man, I don’t know if you’ll see this but I’ve always really liked this video. All I see are hate comments, but there an excitement I always get watching this mini drama. Drones are amazing technology, and dammit if we don’t push the envelope. I think I’m reading into this too much, but videos like these represent some semblance of what we once had, a bit of pioneer spirit. I know it’s just a drone, and there were probably things you could have done to be “safer” but for me there is some small, small hint of the brave men that came before us in dumb little videos like this. Idk, I just think it’s cool to see that we as normal people have access to such cool tools and devices. Anyway, just felt bad about all the hate you’re getting. Thanks for a cool video.

  • @GnosisMan50
    @GnosisMan50 7 років тому +262

    maybe they should install a mini parachute on it and deploy when the battery dies.

    • @crabtrap
      @crabtrap 7 років тому

      they have them...try being original

    • @Evan-ef7tk
      @Evan-ef7tk 7 років тому +32

      calm down

    • @GnosisMan50
      @GnosisMan50 7 років тому +3

      what kind of reply is that, Evan? your train of thought has not left the station and crabtrap is right there with you...

    • @Evan-ef7tk
      @Evan-ef7tk 7 років тому +7

      GnosisMan50 I was saying calm down to crab trab. I thought what you said was a good idea. So much for agreeing with you.

    • @crabtrap
      @crabtrap 7 років тому

      Evan77
      jeez ,get a grip loser the topic was 3 weeks ago.

  • @patrickm5217
    @patrickm5217 4 роки тому +678

    This is exactly why there are stricter drone laws now

    • @WolfofNightMusic
      @WolfofNightMusic 4 роки тому +17

      it is why I can't fly over my house.

    • @KamiL1Bojar
      @KamiL1Bojar 4 роки тому +4

      And what ? they can stricter laws more and more but tru is any body can buy or made drone today and fly what he want and where he want, even without brain, they cant do nothink with that. Its one solution, dont sell any drones ever but its impossible to make its come too far now.

    • @jackfenn7524
      @jackfenn7524 4 роки тому +12

      Yeah, the Nazis always take everything over.

    • @WolfofNightMusic
      @WolfofNightMusic 4 роки тому +12

      @@KamiL1Bojar in England if you break the laws then you get a fine, or prison or both www.choose.co.uk/guide/drone-flying-regulations-law-uk/ can't fly over 400ft high, can't fly within 150 meters of people, 50 meters of buildings act... if you want to do that, then you have to apply for permission, also you need to take a test to make sure you are competent at flying a drone. its all bullshit.

    • @twickersruss
      @twickersruss 4 роки тому +2

      @Putins Saggy Manboobs good comment. They should stay in visual contact with the drone.

  • @Phuckyou313
    @Phuckyou313 Рік тому

    Quick question ❓ say your at max height right and you want to drop altitude rapidly can you cut the engine off and then start again or does it now work that way? Thinking next time that happens maybe cut the engine's and let it drop so you could save battery getting it back to you, or install a parachute too.

  • @TheDaggwood
    @TheDaggwood Рік тому +1

    Thank you for having the balls to post, it's appreciated!!

  • @nenojabo
    @nenojabo 6 років тому +415

    I have never been more stressed watching a drone video before

  • @zudemaster
    @zudemaster 6 років тому +1919

    And all this time I thought clouds were solid objects you could walk on.

  • @JoeBlow-zr2ru
    @JoeBlow-zr2ru 11 місяців тому

    Despite the notes in the video description, no regard seems to have been taken for the possibility that an unexpected NORDO aircraft could have transited, endangering their lives.
    For those unaware, NORDO aircraft do not show up on traffic websites, and nor do they make radio calls that could be heard on a scanner.
    NORDO aircraft operate on a purely visual see-and-avoid basis (for other aircraft) ... and stand no chance of seeing a drone-sized object, especially if there is ground clutter beyond it.

  • @wbtittle
    @wbtittle Рік тому

    I like the analysis on the GPS lock. It is an important thing to note...

  • @cesarvidelac
    @cesarvidelac 3 роки тому +9

    Thanks for posting this video knowing that you would get many negative opinions before they read the description of the video. I am a draftsman, I work usually on topographic blueprints, and someday I want to get a drone to perform data collection for my work, this is valuable since you recognize your own mistakes and it's good for everyone who planes to do either hobby or pre flights. My best regards.

  • @Foxpoop
    @Foxpoop 8 років тому +71

    Your only mistake was testing this in a residential area and not in an open field.

    • @Wheresmy240
      @Wheresmy240 8 років тому +2

      Read his description box.

    • @blighto
      @blighto 8 років тому +1

      Are you joking he couldn't keep it flying perfectly above a field either silly pants

    • @Foxpoop
      @Foxpoop 8 років тому +8

      I did read it, but no need to point that out.

    • @IslandSimPilot
      @IslandSimPilot 7 років тому +2

      No, that was one of many, many mistakes. He could have hit an airplane.

    • @Foxpoop
      @Foxpoop 7 років тому

      mr3856a Especially since recreational pilots seem to fly wherever they want.

  • @tcolondovich2996
    @tcolondovich2996 2 роки тому

    Tile Tracker Stickers are nice, as they will help you find it within 250ft. Tile Tracker Pros do 400ft, and are worth the extra weight if you lose the drone. Tons of other people have Tile, so if anyone else with the app gets near it, it'll show up on your phone. I'd recommend doing this, as I have with my drones, except my Mavic Mini, which I've been lazy about. I have had problems descending with any reasonable amount of wind.

  • @SteeveEfnet
    @SteeveEfnet 10 років тому +44

    For the sake of the hobby and public safety, you sir should take down this video and never talk about it again. You are putting everyone below at risk of getting hurt or killed. Shame on you

    • @StefanEkstam
      @StefanEkstam  10 років тому +53

      I totally respect your opinion sir, and I do admit I feel quite ashamed about the incident. However, I don't think keeping quiet about it would in any way benefit neither the hobby nor public safety. If this video could stop anyone from repeating my mistake that would be a good thing, no?

    • @SteeveEfnet
      @SteeveEfnet 10 років тому +9

      Stefan Ekstam True, fly safely!

    • @adjep1975
      @adjep1975 10 років тому

      I agree Steve!

    • @Ba11leFieldAce
      @Ba11leFieldAce 10 років тому

      Stefan Ekstam everyone is a scientist these days, and apparently avionics and aeronautical engineers as well. Look, most of these folks have never even flown a quad or hexarotor. Don't listen too them, anybodys who's ever actually owned one (especially dji products simply because they can fly so high) has pushed the envelope once or twice, I'm as guilty as the next guy. You got lucky, especially since most of the damage was repairable with spare parts. My phantoms hl feature malfunctioned and fighting to maintain control at probably about 1k ft, my battery had had enough lol. It hit the ground hard, but Luckily it was just superficial damage. The point is that unless people know that the failsafes on these machines are not fool proof, people will keep making the same mistakes. I say keep this video up, as a precautionary tale. Oh and too anybody saying that a jet could have collided with it. A flying ceiling for a commercial or private aircraft is minimum of 5k ft expect for ems. He was nowhere no 5k ft.

    • @carlose6010
      @carlose6010 10 років тому

      Addy Smits Thanks for the information!

  • @naturalback
    @naturalback 4 роки тому +365

    Having read your statement I applaud your admition and the fact you published this knowing you would receive criticism . You could easily have not. In fact I think it is a fantastic safety/warning video. Thank you.

    • @bananasstuff3344
      @bananasstuff3344 4 роки тому +9

      I agree, all kinds of idiots going batshit in the comments about the FAA

    • @snoopysnoops007
      @snoopysnoops007 4 роки тому +6

      I completely agree. It's worth one person doing it just so we can all see what it's like.
      Plus drone laws were bound to be brought in anyway so this video is just a great cautionary tale.

    • @mtlpackman8419
      @mtlpackman8419 4 роки тому +5

      Considering the high probability that he could have killed someone with this, I agree. Watch and learn, don't emulate.

    • @holyfreeholy2329
      @holyfreeholy2329 4 роки тому +4

      TheNaturalback I mean - idk that is sorta common sense- no one had to tell me. I just didn’t want to put anyone at risk

    • @holyfreeholy2329
      @holyfreeholy2329 4 роки тому +1

      A Remnant it’s a no brained... shouldn’t even be a warning it’s common sense

  • @alexdeas5048
    @alexdeas5048 Рік тому

    The reason it would not descend is the drone was flying in wave conditions: see the clouds are in long lines from left to right. The upwind side has a strong updraft, and the downwind side of each line of clouds, as well as the gap usually, has a strong downdraft. To get down, just fly into the downdraft.

  • @YouAreMySunshine1
    @YouAreMySunshine1 2 роки тому

    Interesting, good to show the dangers out there. Hello from South Africa.

  • @itzajdmting
    @itzajdmting 8 років тому +247

    Firstly, I've read the description - and I commend you for posting this footage as a learning exercise; not just for drone pilots, but for the world at large as this is still a relatively new facet of modern life.
    Now, I understand your logic about why you believed it would be safe to fly the drone up to that altitude - but sadly this line of thought is fatally flawed, and without hurling abuse at you, I'd just like to highlight a couple of things about that kind of reasoning. I'm sure you already realise these things in hindsight, but someone else reading this might not.
    I'm not sure where this was filmed - some are saying Sweden, some people are saying Africa - but, in my part of the world, the military can make flights as low as 300 feet above the ground. This is often fast moving jet aircraft or large cargo turboprop planes.
    Recreational pilots, whether they're in microlights/ultralights, light aircraft or gliders (powered or unpowered) can often be found flying predominantly between 1000-4000 feet. I myself am a private pilot, and the average altitude we fly at is about 2000 feet. As this provides us with a good balance of visibility for navigation, and avoiding any clouds to comply with Visual Flight Rules (VFR).
    What I'm trying to do here is just paint a picture to you of the kind of activity that MAY be possible at the altitudes you were flying at. It is nigh on impossible for a pilot travelling at about 100 mph to spot such a small and near-stationary object in time for avoidance. I'm sure you've been seeing in the news that these incidents of mid-air collisions with drones are increasing.
    To just say that this area isn't busy, or there isn't much air traffic here is not sufficient to ensure the safe operation of your vehicle. The number of safety issues that your flight and reasoning presents is almost unlimited.
    I urge all drone pilots to take it upon themselves to make sure they understand the Rules of the Air, the Air Navigation Order, and other relevant aviation laws that detail how Airspace works etc...
    I'm sure you guys don't want to go through life with the deaths of some innocent people on your hands... that could be very nasty indeed. Once an accident like this happens, it can't be undone, no matter what.
    Drones are really cool things, but I implore you all to learn how to use them responsibly and inline with your fellow users of the sky, pilots of all other aircraft.

    • @RokyanLime
      @RokyanLime 8 років тому +12

      +Rob S I would like to hurl insults at this selfish inconsiderate person / criminal. This is the exact reason people will die. Because you have clueless selfish idiots like this guy who will run into a plane or real helicopter one day. SAD but this guy should be punished.

    • @itzajdmting
      @itzajdmting 8 років тому +8

      +M. W. Naylor I know where you're coming from. And believe me... I find the prospect of running into one of these things scary as hell. I do agree that these kind of airspace infringements should be punishable, just like any other airspace infringement currently enforced.
      I just hope it doesn't take a few fatalities before people learn. Sadly, this is usually what it takes :-(

    • @RokyanLime
      @RokyanLime 8 років тому +8

      Dusternm being responsible and concerned for others safety... please... you're clearly not educated enough to know anything about flight, flight rules and regulations and or consideration for human life. I'm sure your the same idiot flying this quad copter in a illegal and irresponsible manner.

    • @RokyanLime
      @RokyanLime 8 років тому +2

      Well then why would you want to comment and name call. You're clearly the operator of this and you should take notice of your actions. They're illegal and just against any and all common sense. Regardless of your post about this and describing what you did while breaking the law you clearly have no concept of and should not be allowed to fly or purchase any of these now or in the future. Again, we all know it's you. Same IP address.

    • @toddtolman8845
      @toddtolman8845 8 років тому +1

      +dusternm guynjhuhb. bhgumnj

  • @LaurentLaborde
    @LaurentLaborde 4 роки тому +201

    my inner pilot cried as soon as i saw you go through the clouds. That's a lesson learned for you and hopefully everyone in the world willing to try stuff with a drone. You got absurdly lucky this time :D

    • @teppo9585
      @teppo9585 3 роки тому +14

      If you call >99.99% probability absurdly lucky. Chance of an airplane coming right there and then at right altitude would have been absurdly unlucky more like since he says there are next to never any planes or choppers around there. And even if the remote chance had occured a plane doesn´t automatically crash from hitting something like that. Planes often hit birds and usually (always?) survive at least enough to make a controlled emergency landing. And since he got his copter crashed in this, it´s even less of a lucky event.. People have their perception of reality totally screwed these times.

    • @LaurentLaborde
      @LaurentLaborde 3 роки тому +11

      @@teppo9585 your perception is screwed indeed. i never said anything about hitting a plane and that's not the problem here

    • @bean7675
      @bean7675 3 роки тому +19

      @@teppo9585 it’s so funny seeing people trying to defend him for breaking the law lol

    • @teppo9585
      @teppo9585 3 роки тому +5

      @@bean7675 Laws aren´t infallible. And the point isn´t about that but wether luck was on his side, and It clearly wasn´t as I explained.

    • @i_likefrenchfries
      @i_likefrenchfries 3 роки тому +1

      @Максим Малахов 🖕👁👄👁

  • @robertciupak563
    @robertciupak563 2 роки тому +1

    At 3000 feet, the temperature dropped 12-18. Clouds are water , which may have had an effect on the motors and printed circuit board. Flight time should be taken into account with the batteries which are always over estimated, and cooler air might have had a negative effect also.

  • @RANDALLOLOGY
    @RANDALLOLOGY Рік тому

    My son lost my quad several years ago. He sent it up the get some pics of a multi car wreck. He went straight up, the wind was strong about 400feet up. He tried to gain control but lost it in the sun's glaire . We went looking for it, put up posters with a reward. Never found it

  • @martinarnaud1266
    @martinarnaud1266 4 роки тому +529

    I think he wanted to see if the earth was really round or flat.

  • @kylekjc
    @kylekjc 7 років тому +44

    i never knew that drones can fly that high WOW!

    • @Apocalyspe
      @Apocalyspe 7 років тому +1

      kyle libatique Modified

    • @kylekjc
      @kylekjc 7 років тому

      oh ok thanks

    • @Didster2x
      @Didster2x 7 років тому

      he built it himself

    • @myscrnnm
      @myscrnnm 7 років тому +7

      DJI Phantoms (consumer level quadcopter) have service ceilings of nearly 20,000 feet (6000 meters). Most people are just careful enough to fly under 400 feet.

    • @moonar5820
      @moonar5820 7 років тому

      STFU WEEB

  • @ClebyHerris
    @ClebyHerris 7 місяців тому +1

    I once flew to 1600 feet with my DJI mini se. there was literally nothing within 40 miles of me so it was fine. Clear visibility and no planes. Got some good shots

    • @mscheese000
      @mscheese000 7 місяців тому

      And you that there were no planes how? Moron.

    • @SupremeCakeVR
      @SupremeCakeVR 7 місяців тому +1

      @@mscheese000there were no airports nearby, and planes fly at around 30,000 feet.

  • @pogle63
    @pogle63 2 роки тому

    Makes me wonder if the lack of response from your drone was due to moisture getting into the electrics as it ascended through the clouds, which after all are moisture vapour.

  • @jorgemoore2661
    @jorgemoore2661 9 років тому +44

    Best drone video EVER!!
    Sorry for the damage, but I'm glad it was not serious.
    You managed very well the emergency, it was very clever from you to try to find and open space to land as safe as possible.

    • @Silkybrennan
      @Silkybrennan 9 років тому

      well said and more

    • @garyfairall3561
      @garyfairall3561 9 років тому

      *long time reader, first time poster :)
      Finally, after so much hip-wading material I finally found someone that commented on the very fact that he DID look for and navigate to a safe zone. With the lynch mob mentality being as prevalent as those that seem to not be able to read or comprehend the comments of the poster it is an absolute necessity that this be pointed out. Stefan did go through a series of checklists and then maneuvered to a safe location. What he managed to do, is what makes a pilot IMHO; of course self-admittance and learning from mistakes makes him a better pilot.
      All the 'what-ifs' and 'could-have-beens' is incredible. These people need to really start thinking about every other aspect in life if they are making those claims about this documented safe crash. They need to realize they they are more likely to die from a migrating bird pooping on them from some odd 100's of feet in the air (and yes, I do realize they are not high enough to actually have that happen, just a point in jest since everyone else is making such wild claims). Additionally every single dooms day venting person should realize that their vehicle they are driving or riding in could cause a lot more damage than this 'copter if .... wait for it.... *IF* there was some mechanical failure or *IF* you were to lose control of said motorized vehicle.... see the point? IF is a mighty big, little word that really is just that, IF.
      I for one thank Stefan for posting this. I have been an RC hobbyist for a while and have been looking into some form of quad or hex 'copter and find it refreshing to see such an excellent documentary of what to do or not to do in this hobby.
      Last, the comments about *this* causing people to go out and do more and more of this on purpose, that is like saying any news cast that reporting some illegal activity is going to cause more and more of that activity. While that might be true for some daft individuals, for the rest of us with somewhat of a functioning moral compass it is a learning tool.

    • @MrMich42
      @MrMich42 9 років тому

      New us I litany jet aircraft

    • @MrMich42
      @MrMich42 9 років тому

      +Willi

    • @7Huti7
      @7Huti7 9 років тому +1

      Yes, I appreciate his intent. He uploaded the video because he knew that others will try the same. We have to learn from mistakes, in this case from that one.

  • @shhhhsecrethaha
    @shhhhsecrethaha 3 роки тому +282

    This is why the FAA is cracking down on us drone lovers lol

    • @InsideOutsider81
      @InsideOutsider81 3 роки тому +6

      I dont think this was in the USA

    • @mop2254
      @mop2254 3 роки тому +3

      I'm disappointed the drone didn't fall on someone. 🤣

    • @DuskLegend
      @DuskLegend 3 роки тому +3

      @@mop2254 based as fuck

    • @ursrupp5869
      @ursrupp5869 2 роки тому +5

      Thst wasn't a smart idea Stefan👎. Bec such flights/behavour r leading to tougher regulations, = disadvantage for all serious drone pilots.
      And when, as a 'real pilot' i've an encounter under instrument flight with such a drone, i probably coudn't write this comment... therefore i hope, u have learnt ur lesson !

    • @alexrivera4598
      @alexrivera4598 2 роки тому +3

      Any catastrophe you can link to that is making the FAA crack down?

  • @mrjiveturkey5572
    @mrjiveturkey5572 Рік тому

    Maybe you should have put your description in your subtitles on your video. My blood was boiling when I watched it, not having read your description first. All the same, glad you learned from your mistake of trying this stunt.

  • @Matanumi
    @Matanumi Рік тому

    You know.... today I wonder if a hacked DJI quad would have the same issue.... I think the GPS would handle it fine but I've heard thick clouds could make the VPS think it "can't land on uneven surfaces" causing an operator to Panic as you can't move below the glass ceiling.
    I've done it with an Autel drone on lower clouds- the props/arms got damp but she was able to fly through up and down the thickest clouds

  • @pocketboul
    @pocketboul 3 роки тому +17

    how to scrap our hobby .... thanks man for your support !!!

    • @mop2254
      @mop2254 3 роки тому

      Not fun until it falls on someone's head.

  • @StephenMannUSA
    @StephenMannUSA 9 років тому +147

    I appreciate anyone who tests the limits of their equipment. If everyone flew in a sterile box and let the on-board computer keep you in those boundaries, then our hobby would be terribly boring. May as well just watch TV.
    While I disagree with some of your conclusions - you learned something and you passed that knowledge on to others.
    I am really frustrated with the 'haters' who really do not know what they are talking about. I've been a commercial pilot since 1980 and owned a Cessna for 15 years. I've hit birds (the California gull is about 3 pounds) larger than the typical small UAV, and all I needed to do was clean off the bird guts. The odds of a collision between a small multirotor A/C and a Cessna or a passenger jet are exceedingly small in the first place (the sky is big - really big), and bringing down the larger aircraft is virtually impossible. With many thousands of these craft flying today, there has not been a single reported incident of a collision between a light drone and a manned aircraft.

    • @StefanEkstam
      @StefanEkstam  9 років тому +32

      Stephen Mann Thanks for your comment! It's interesting to hear this from a pilot, since most pilots (or, well, people who claim they are pilots anyway) are raging all over the place. A while ago I had the chance to pilot a small Piper Cherokee along with a real pilot, and he kind of shrugged when I asked about multirotor collisions. He pointed to the Piper's propeller, and said that a multirotor would probably get totally pulverized by it. On the other hand, a helicopter pilot I met firmly believed that a multirotor could cause some real damage to a helicopter's tail rotor. Though it's apparently a bad (and stupid) idea flying multirotors near airports, I also believe that the sky is really big, and the chances of collisions are more or less infinitely small. No matter what, I'm not flying like this anymore. The risk of air-to-air collisions may be small, but the risk of falling uncontrollably to the ground is a lot bigger.

    • @World_Premier
      @World_Premier 9 років тому

      I feel the exact same way Stephen! I love pushing the limits and going on adventures! You get to tell quad stories to friends

    • @cybertree
      @cybertree 9 років тому +1

      Stephen Mann Thank you sir for using your experience and logic (unlike 99% of this comment page), the sky is massive and something smaller and lighter than a regularly occuring bird is virtually not a threat, especially considering a pilot should be at a MINIMUM of 1,000 feet, and up here in Alaska me and most bush plane pilots prefer to fly much higher, usually out of range of 90% of professional drones.

    • @cybertree
      @cybertree 9 років тому +2

      Stefan Ekstam Awesome video brother! I think too many losers just want to prove they have "common sense" and make themselves feel important, people must be so uptight they're making diamonds between their buttcheeks, I mean MAYBE it could hurt someone on the way down, but it WON'T seriously injure anybody because they are so light, thank you for sharing this exciting experience so none of us have to! :) I thought it was cool.

    • @robertgandy2207
      @robertgandy2207 9 років тому +1

      Stephen. Im not going to to tell you what I do for a living but I can proove that a single bird can bring down a plane. Dont be so arrogant.

  • @capitolhillsfullofshills7713
    @capitolhillsfullofshills7713 11 місяців тому +1

    The spinning GoPro imagery with the crash in to the 🌳 is incredible footage! Reminds me of a Beastie Boys or Grunge Metal band music video from the early to mid 1990s 😅 🎸 🤘🏼

  • @damonhill6824
    @damonhill6824 11 місяців тому

    Couldn't do this in my neighborhood: about 1500 ft is where private aircraft, helicopters and flocks of geese routinely go overhead. What's the lateral range, round trip? Still, it was epic!

  • @elwoogie1963
    @elwoogie1963 Рік тому

    So my question is upon seeing the descent being too slow, why not cut back on rotor speed enough to allow gravity to pull it down yet maintain attitude control? Should use much less power, and in the video there was no noticeable change in audio rotor speed.

  • @Dronistic
    @Dronistic 3 роки тому +125

    I never get tired of watching this video. 7 years has passed and still one of my favs

  • @Eksile8
    @Eksile8 4 роки тому +453

    Im not even certified yet...now I know why im having to do this. This is totally irresponsible

    • @madangel9691
      @madangel9691 4 роки тому +4

      True

    • @toast2610
      @toast2610 4 роки тому +19

      Why live wild and free when you can be institutionalized and virtue signal

    • @mondongoloco7902
      @mondongoloco7902 4 роки тому +25

      @@toast2610 because if a plane pass by It would detroy one plane's motor and kill innocent people, if birds can make an airplane crash, metal and batteries that could eploit can do worse, remember our liberty finish when others begin
      (Sorry for vas english)

    • @toast2610
      @toast2610 4 роки тому +8

      @@mondongoloco7902 Aircraft can be (and are) designed to take bird or other strikes without resulting in death. But people killed can only be innocent if there were an intent to kill them. For example if a pilot of one aircraft deliberately flies into another aircraft there would be innocent people killed, but if it was an accident it was an accident.

    • @jinlim6575
      @jinlim6575 4 роки тому +7

      you are a pussy

  • @brandonhill2183
    @brandonhill2183 Рік тому +1

    Wonder if it would have been possible to shut it down at altitude to save battery, then restart it after some time at free fall to use the remaining battery to land

  • @ReekyCheeks
    @ReekyCheeks Рік тому +1

    Is it possible to have a reusable parachute? Seems like a good idea for these drones.

  • @fabiandieterle
    @fabiandieterle 3 роки тому +60

    People like you are the reason, why so many people are having problems with us drone pilots.

    • @ranenbothel_spam
      @ranenbothel_spam 3 роки тому

      But is that bad??

    • @2ManyGoats
      @2ManyGoats 3 роки тому +3

      Good thing you're an expert though and have never made a mistake, or crashed even a single time.
      As a drone pilot, I also know that if you actually say "No, I've never crashed", then you're 100% lying btw.

    • @DuskLegend
      @DuskLegend 3 роки тому

      He did nothing wrong

    • @DuskLegend
      @DuskLegend 3 роки тому

      Stay mad

    • @Vro_xppy
      @Vro_xppy 2 роки тому

      shut up

  • @jimsavino4729
    @jimsavino4729 5 років тому +211

    I am a US-certified flight instructor. A few years ago in California, I witnessed a man fly a drone several hundred yards out from a road-accessible 4800' mountaintop and maneuver it away, virtually out of sight. Seconds later, an unseen and unheard light aircraft came whipping by, right through the same airspace. That pilot probably came within 100 ft of the drone without ever seeing it and a major disaster was averted only by sheer dumb luck. You never know when a pilot will use airspace which is legally available to him/her. That's especially true of aircraft in or transitioning through clouds, flying on "GPS-direct" flight plans. Best to all and stay safe, js.

    • @etienneguyot9069
      @etienneguyot9069 5 років тому +16

      And flightradar24.com will never be a safety belt as this application only reports transponder-equipped aircraft with ADS-B enable. So, a lot of small aircraft, flying VFR at the same altitude range of UAC, will never be shown on this web display! Never believe flightradar24.com for any "clearance" to fly at low altitude!!!

    • @JayDee-xj9lu
      @JayDee-xj9lu 5 років тому

      I agree. We were on a jump run and a small aircraft flew below us in restricted air space. JD

    • @rustusandroid
      @rustusandroid 5 років тому +22

      Airspace belongs to us all. You have more of a chance hitting a bird than some random drone. I'll bet you the bird thinks that airspace legally belongs to him.

    • @jimsavino4729
      @jimsavino4729 5 років тому +31

      Hee, hee! Sorry, but "Airspace belongs to us all"? That's so wrong it's laughable. Airspace belongs solely to the federal government, which has wasted no time slapping down states and localities who thought they had some claim on it and been upheld in court every time. The FAA detail-manages airspace for the maximum safety of the occupants of aircraft and people on the ground, period. The self-assumed "rights" of drone operators who are not personally at risk are a distant second, as the author of the original video clearly acknowledges. Citing his onboard equipment and his inability to eat without using it, I bet any bird could make a stronger airspace-utilization case in court than a drone operator. We can't control birds or we would, especially near airports (witness the events in the movie "Sully") but we can minimize the impact drones have on passenger aircraft, and we should. Best regards, J

    • @paoloumali4280
      @paoloumali4280 5 років тому +4

      @@jimsavino4729 Nobody owns the air space. I heard no one having titles or selling them on ebay.

  • @froller
    @froller 2 роки тому

    I've lost my plane trying to return it back home through sudden pouring rain. FC board was exposed to precipitation and autopilot went nuts. Emergency beacon didn't work due to low voltage rail power failure after the crash. I've spent 4 hours dead reckoning and one more day looking for the crash site.

  • @shawnio
    @shawnio Рік тому +1

    it literally looks like the CPU just said bank 45 degrees and point at the ground, Im surprised that wind didnt just buffet off those rotors like popsicle sticks, that was quite a stress test for sure,

  • @neiltayler
    @neiltayler 5 років тому +300

    First let me say that I think it was useful for Stefan to share this video. He is aware of the potential danger he caused and has sensibly agreed no to repeat this type of flight. Well done to you Stefan and I hope others can learn from it. Flight safety is all about learning from things and NOT about apportioning blame.
    I have been flying for 40 years both commercially and privately and people ask what is my greatest fear. My answer is flying into a a 1kg piece of metal and plastic. I don’t think it’s a question of if it will happen rather than when.
    For those that say birds fly around up there, you are correct and I have had many bird strikes, but birds are soft and squidgy and will often bounce off the aircraft without any damage. They are also pretty good at seeing an approaching aircraft and often flying out of the way. Bird concentrations are regularly reported at airfields and active measures are taken to scare them away. Modern jet engines are tested by firing birds into them on a test rig to ensure that they can cope with the damage caused.
    I’m pretty sure there has been no such testing for a drone impact, but simple physics suggests that a solid object will impart a lot more energy than a similarly sized bird.
    Should I collide with a drone whilst flying an large airliner, I guess the worst damage would probably be a severe engine failiure which would cost the airline a lot of money, but would be unlikely to injure anyone apart from potential falling debris. Should I be flying a light arcraft, I believe the impact would easily break the perspex windscreen and cause injury to the occupants, or hit the structure and cause significant damage which could render the aircraft uncontrollable. It is incredibly difficult to spot such a small object and even more difficult to alter course should you see it at a late stage. The damage to a helicopter would be likely to be even more serious given the number of moving parts.
    I have no wish to curtail the use of drones, I fly one myself, but I make an impassioned plea.... Please stick to the rules to keep everyone safe. I desperately hope I am proved wrong and that there is never a serious incident. As things stand, I think that is unlikely.
    I’m sure there will be those that disagree and I am fully supportive of an informed debate. The more we publisize and talk about this, hopefully the more people will fly responsibly.

    • @themightykhan2
      @themightykhan2 5 років тому +18

      @he is aware of the potential danger he caused@ yet proceeded anyway... because hes an irresponsible prick and if someone had been injured or killed he would have had no come back and there would be no way of tracing the culprit. how can you say well done to such a dangerous and immature act.

    • @neiltayler
      @neiltayler 5 років тому +21

      I’m certainly not saying well done to what he did, but applauding him for realising it was stupid and sharing it for everyone to learn from. He could have just deleted the video and kept it to himself and none of us would be having this discussion.
      I think Stefan realises that what he did could have had dia consequences.

    • @Ubinnhad
      @Ubinnhad 5 років тому +9

      @@neiltayler Well said Neil

    • @jan-zumwalt
      @jan-zumwalt 5 років тому +6

      This goes along the lines of logic of... "...let me show you a video of me beating my wife and kids so you can see why you should not do it..." Are you for real? I would rather see a video of you being arrested.

    • @neiltayler
      @neiltayler 5 років тому +21

      I think everyone in this world would realise that beating your wife and kids is just plain wrong without needing to see a video here, so I don’t agree with your analogy.
      Drone flying is a relatively new activity which didn’t exist a few years ago and the rules and regulations are still maturing.
      It’s open discussion like this that will help to spread the word about how to make sure everyone flies them safely, because right now, that’s not happening.

  • @chipsher42
    @chipsher42 5 років тому +42

    I'm proud of you. Your description clearly shows that you analyzed the crash, take responsibility for the crash, learned from the crash, and are teaching others the lessons that you learned. My father taught "Aircraft Accident Prevention & Investigation" for 33 years at the University of Southern California (USC). We often accompanied my dad, sitting in on his classes, going to the "Crash Lab" (actual aircraft wreckage, carefully transported to a training site (Norton AFB), so students can practice investigation), and going to crash sites as a professional investigator/witness. Everything that you said above, is well in keeping with modern air safety principals. Good job.

    • @feedmytv
      @feedmytv 5 років тому +2

      This compares better to a pyro who's also a firefighter.

    • @etienneguyot9069
      @etienneguyot9069 5 років тому

      The important fact you could learn during your safety lessons is that it's always better to be proactive than curative. From the comments of the video, we know that the guy was perfectly aware of the possible consequences BEFORE its flight. A very simple safety analysis pre-flight should have immediately concluded that the associated risks were way too heavy... As your father taught, the first part of your lesson title is "PREVENTION" and this is the number one rule for flight safety.

    • @Walant55
      @Walant55 5 років тому +2

      What the hell are you proud of? This moron flew well above the FAA mandated maximum drone ceiling of 400 feet agl and transitioned into some clouds losing complete sight of the drone. For you non pilots out there, you can fly aircraft 1000 feet above populated areas, which means this butt munch at 3000 feet could have hit a VFR aircraft clear of the clouds or a IFR aircraft flght in the clouds. Not to mention losing control of the aircraft and nailing somebody on the ground. This was illegal, dangerous and shouldn't have been attempted in the first place. This kind of crap will legislate rec drone flying out of existence.

  • @wwerty234
    @wwerty234 7 місяців тому

    i really hope you gave this hobby up

  • @Fish-ub3wn
    @Fish-ub3wn Рік тому

    awesome footage, good luck.

  • @andresdelgado6778
    @andresdelgado6778 5 років тому +28

    Stefan, I don't know what is more impressive, your video or your total sincere apologies and reflections, I salute you for that. It is not a case anymore of people going out there blaming products for their failed or unsafe misfortunes, if you have a machine of this caliber you SHOULD know its limitations and fly envelope characteristics, there is plenty of information available in the internet and elsewhere, so again thank you for your insights and for sharing this amazing video.

    • @rngalston
      @rngalston 5 років тому

      You know, sh*%t happens!

    • @davidbukovey2691
      @davidbukovey2691 5 років тому +2

      Andres Delgado
      “sincere apologies” all I read was a attempt to justify his illegal activities.

    • @Flakwave
      @Flakwave 5 років тому

      @@davidbukovey2691 it was not illegal by the time he shot the video.

    • @tomseim
      @tomseim 5 років тому +1

      Yes, it was.

  • @MaartenSpoek
    @MaartenSpoek 5 років тому +8

    Thanks for sharing! You and others have learned a valuable lesson now, I hope.

    • @Seerwealth
      @Seerwealth 5 років тому +1

      Sure thing, fly it inside your kitchen?