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RTH, or Return to Home, allows the drone to automatically return to the saved reference point for the flight. Before take-off, confirm this point on the map, review the return altitude and check the chosen behaviour for a signal loss. The return button deserves the same attention as the battery.
This guide helps you prepare these decisions. The menus and return trajectory vary according to the model, firmware and flight conditions; always consult your equipment manual.
Is the return point where you think it is?
In DJI models covered by the official RTH documentation, the return depends on the registered Home Point and the conditions necessary for positioning. Depending on the model and configuration, it can be initiated by the pilot, due to low battery or loss of connection.
During flight preparation, open the map and identify the return marker. Perform a simple check: does the marker correspond to the free space where you want to land? If it appears displaced or you cannot confirm the registration, resolve this on the ground before starting the route.
Also plan where you will remain. If you take off next to the car and then walk to another location, do not assume that the drone will now return to you. Check in the manual whether there is an update to the Home Point, how it works and which position is recorded. The pilot’s movement should be part of the flight plan.
How to decide on RTH altitude
Start with the location, not with a number saved from a previous flight. Identify trees, poles, buildings and differences in relief along the possible return route. Choose a take-off area that allows an unobstructed approach and respect the limits applicable throughout the route.
DJI documents different behaviours between models and modes: some returns use a preset altitude, others plan a trajectory, and proximity to the Home Point can alter the manoeuvre. Therefore, setting an altitude does not mean that the drone will always ascend to it when you press the button. Confirm the specific logic of your model in the documentation indicated above.
Imagine a field with a line of trees between the drone’s position and the landing site. If you cannot assess the height of the trees or guarantee a permitted and clear route, change the location or shorten the flight. Increasing a value in the app without knowing the terrain leaves the problem unresolved.
In the open category, the general European rule limits the distance to the surface to 120 metres and requires direct visual contact, with the conditions and exceptions provided for in the regulation. An altitude indication on the screen does not replace the assessment of the relief. Consult the EASA rules and the geographic zones published by ANAC: there may be additional local restrictions.
Signal loss: check the option before the flight
When the equipment allows you to choose the response to loss of connection, read the active option and compare it with the location. A return over open terrain requires a different assessment from an operation close to structures. DJI documentation explains that Failsafe RTH depends on the configuration and system conditions; the existence of the function does not guarantee that it is the selected response.
Do not deliberately switch off the controller to find out what happens. If you are learning to use the equipment, prepare a manual RTH exercise, permitted by the manual, in an open and legal space, with the drone in sight and no people in the landing area. Before taking off, also identify the command to interrupt the manoeuvre.
A short checklist to take to the site
You can copy this checklist into your phone notes. Fill it in for each new location and add it to your pre-flight check.
- RTH model and mode I will use:
- Landing site and confirmation of the marker on the map:
- Obstacles identified on the return path:
- Zone boundary and configured altitude:
- Selected response to signal loss:
- Alternative location to end the flight safely:
- Command to cancel RTH, according to the manual:
If any of these fields remain blank because you are unfamiliar with how the drone works, it is worth rehearsing the ground preparation first. To learn the basic commands, start with the beginner piloting guide.
Official sources consulted on 2 October 2026. Preparation guide; does not replace the model manual nor the legal conditions of the flight location.
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