DJI Air 3S

The DJI Air 3S, released by Chinese drone manufacturer DJI in late 2023, represents the latest evolution of the company’s consumer‑grade aerial platforms. Building on the success of the Air 2 series, DJI introduced the Air 3S as a bridge between hobbyist models and the professional Mavic line, incorporating lessons learned from the Mavic 3 and the Air 2S. Its development was guided by a growing demand for high‑resolution imaging and advanced autonomous flight in a portable package, allowing enthusiasts and creators to capture cinematic footage without the burden of larger drones.

Key features include a dual‑camera system that pairs a 1‑inch 20‑megapixel sensor with a 1/2‑inch wide‑angle sensor, both capable of recording 5.4K video at 30 fps and supporting HDR video. The Air 3S utilizes O3+ transmission, delivering up to 12 km of video feed, and boasts a 34‑minute maximum flight time thanks to an optimized battery and aerodynamic design. Advanced safety suite elements—such as omnidirectional obstacle sensing, APAS 5.0, and subject tracking—set new standards for reliability in the class. In aviation terms, the Air 3S has expanded the accessibility of professional‑grade aerial cinematography, influencing regulatory discussions on drone traffic management and cementing DJI’s role as a catalyst for the rapid growth of the civilian UAV market.