DJI Matrice 350 RTK Step-by-Step Guide

 

Do you want to start learning a DJI Matrice 350 RTK? Then you came to the right place. 

We made this guide to help new DJI Matrice 350 RTK pilots take their first confident steps into the world of professional drone operations. Whether you already have some flying experience but want structured guidance, or you are completely new to operating enterprise drones, this guide is designed to help you prepare for your first flight and build your skills step by step. 

But flying a drone is not just about managing the remote controller. It also requires a solid understanding of the dynamics of advanced drone flight, navigating safely within legal frameworks, and respecting privacy and safety standards. 

What You’ll Learn In This Guide:

• In The Box
• Pre-Flight Checklist
• Getting Your Drone Off the Ground: 
• Setting Up the Aircraft
• Remote Controller Configuration
• Video Transmission Configuration
• RTK Positioning Setup
• Next steps

In the Box of the DJI Matrice 350 RTK: 

When you unbox your DJI Matrice 350 RTK, you’ll find the aircraft along with its essential accessories neatly packed inside. Take a moment to go through each item carefully and compare it with the official checklist to ensure everything is included and in good condition. This step is important to avoid any surprises before your first flight

Make sure all components are accounted for and free from damage. For a clearer view of the contents, check the image below, which highlights everything that comes in the box.

Drone Pre-Flight Checklist: 

Before taking the DJI Matrice 350 RTK into the air, running through a proper checklist is essential. It helps you avoid mistakes, protect your aircraft, and ensure every flight runs smoothly and safely.

To make things simple, we’ve organized all the important pre-flight checks for the Matrice 350 RTK into clear categories. You can move through each section step by step to make sure nothing gets missed.

1. Matrice 350 RTK Pre-Flight Checklist: Weather and Site Conditions
2. Matrice 350 RTK Pre-Flight Checklist: Airspace Rules and Permissions
3. Matrice 350 RTK Pre-Flight Checklist: Batteries, Firmware, and Link Tests
4. Matrice 350 RTK Pre-Flight Checklist: Aircraft Frame, Propellers, and Payloads
5. Matrice 350 RTK Pre-Flight Checklist: System Power-On and Calibration
6. Matrice 350 RTK Pre-Flight Checklist: Preparing for Takeoff

If all of this feels like a long list, don’t worry—the process becomes second nature with practice. 

The Matrice 350 RTK is designed with smart systems and built-in safety features that make pre-flight checks faster and easier. 

This single checklist pulls everything together so you can fly with confidence, knowing you’re fully prepared.

1. Matrice 350 RTK Pre-Flight Checklist: Weather and Site Conditions

• Precipitation: Confirm no rain, snow, or heavy moisture is forecasted during the flight window.
  
  
• Wind Speed: Ensure wind conditions are within operational limits (below 12 m/s or ~23 mph).
  
  
• Cloud Base: Verify cloud ceiling is at least 500 ft above ground level.
  
  
• Visibility: Maintain minimum 5 km (3+ miles) visibility for safe line-of-sight operations.
  
  
• Lighting Conditions: For dawn or dusk operations, verify civil twilight hours and confirm anti-collision lighting is enabled.
  
  
• Operational Zones: Establish clear takeoff, landing, and designated emergency hover areas.
  
  
• Electromagnetic Interference: Identify and avoid potential interference sources such as power lines, towers, and large metal structures.
  
  
• Obstruction Survey: Conduct a visual scan for obstacles, including trees, buildings, cranes, or wires.
  
  
• Ground Safety: Secure the perimeter to ensure no unauthorized persons, vehicles, or animals are within the operational area.
  
  
• Crew Briefing: Review mission objectives, safety protocols, and role assignments with all crew members prior to takeoff.

2. Matrice 350 RTK Pre-Flight Checklist: Airspace Rules and Permissions

• Airspace Classification Review: Check the Digital Sky Platform (DGCA) map to identify whether your mission area falls under green, yellow, or red zones.
  
  
• Check for NOTAMs and Flight Advisories: Review NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) from AAI and DGCA updates to confirm no restrictions or alerts are in place for your planned flight window.
  
  
• Secure Airspace Authorization: If operating in yellow zones, apply for flight permission through the DGCA Digital Sky Platform before the mission.
  
  
• Instant Permission via NPNT (No Permission, No Takeoff): Ensure your drone firmware supports NPNT compliance, which allows real-time authorization for flights in permitted zones.
  
  
• Advance Clearance in Restricted Areas: For red zone or sensitive areas, secure special authorization from DGCA/CAA in advance to avoid last-minute cancellations on mission day.

3. Matrice 350 RTK Pre-Flight Checklist: Batteries, Firmware, and Link Tests

• Battery Readiness: Ensure that the drone’s flight batteries and remote controller batteries are fully charged before the mission. Carry spare batteries if the flight duration or multiple sorties are expected.
• Firmware Update: Verify that the latest firmware is installed on both the aircraft and the remote controller to prevent compatibility issues and ensure smooth performance.
• Storage Check: Confirm that the microSD card has enough free space to store mission data. If necessary, format the card to avoid data corruption during recording.
• Connectivity Preparedness: Carry a compatible USB cable for your mobile device and make sure the tablet or phone has a stable connection. Check mobile network coverage at the site beforehand to ensure maps, RTK services, or remote data access are available.

4. Matrice 350 RTK Pre-Flight Checklist: Aircraft Frame, Propellers, and Payloads

• Aircraft Frame Inspection: Carefully examine the drone’s body, arms, and landing gear for any cracks, dents, or loose fittings. A secure and damage-free frame is essential for safe flight operations.
• Propeller Condition: Check each propeller for chips, bends, or excessive wear. Ensure they are firmly locked in place and rotate smoothly without resistance. Always replace damaged or questionable propellers before flight.
• Payload Attachment: Verify that cameras, gimbals, or other payloads are mounted correctly and locked into their brackets. Loose payloads can cause imbalance, vibration, and poor flight performance.
• Gimbal & Lens Check: Inspect the gimbal for free and smooth movement. Clean the lens with a microfiber cloth to ensure clear imaging and accurate data capture.
• Balance & Weight Distribution: Confirm that the drone is balanced with the installed payloads and within the approved weight limits. Proper weight distribution helps maintain stable flight and prevents excess strain on the motors.

5. Matrice 350 RTK Pre-Flight Checklist: System Power-On and Calibration 

• Battery Installation: Insert the flight batteries securely into the drone’s battery compartment. Make sure both batteries are fully charged, properly latched, and free from dirt or debris at the connectors.
• Remote Controller Power-On: Switch on the remote controller first to establish a stable communication link with the aircraft. Confirm the controller’s battery level is sufficient for the planned operation.
• Aircraft Power-On: Power up the drone after the controller. Observe startup indicators, system tones, and ensure the aircraft boots without any error warnings.
• Compass Calibration: Perform compass calibration in an open area, away from metal structures, vehicles, or power lines. This ensures accurate navigation and reduces the risk of magnetic interference.
• IMU Calibration: Check if an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) calibration is required. Calibrate only on a flat and stable surface when prompted by the system to maintain flight stability and orientation.
• Gimbal Initialization: Allow the gimbal to complete its startup movement and confirm it stabilizes properly. Ensure smooth tilt and pan operation before mounting or adjusting payloads.

6. Matrice 350 RTK Pre-Flight Checklist: Preparing for Takeoff

• Flight Mode Confirmation: Check that the correct flight mode (RTK, GNSS, or ATTI) is displayed on the remote controller. Ensure RTK positioning is enabled and stable if required for the mission.
• RTK/GNSS Signal Check: Verify that the drone has acquired sufficient satellite signals and RTK is fixed for high-accuracy positioning. Avoid takeoff if the system shows “RTK not ready” or “weak GNSS signal.”
• Obstacle Sensing Systems: Confirm that obstacle avoidance sensors are active and functioning. Visually inspect the environment for potential obstacles that may not be detected by sensors.
• Home Point Verification: Make sure the home point is recorded accurately and displayed on the remote controller screen. This ensures the aircraft can safely return in case of signal loss or emergency.
• Takeoff Area Inspection: Choose a flat, open, and safe surface for takeoff. Clear the area of people, vehicles, and loose objects that could be disturbed by propeller wash.
• Final System Check: Review all status indicators on the DJI Pilot 2 app. Confirm that batteries, propellers, payloads, and firmware status show no warnings before initiating takeoff.

Getting Your Drone Off the Ground: 

OK, now that we’ve covered all the preliminary information, it’s time to move on to the exciting part, actually flying the Matrice 350 RTK. 

But before we take off, it’s important to pause for a moment and go through a few essential safety protocols and recommendations.

Safety Tips for Learning How to Fly a Drone

First, it’s important to remember that the Matrice 350 RTK is a professional-grade drone, not a consumer mini or Air series model, and requires careful handling. Here are essential safety precautions for a secure operation:

• Always remove the battery before performing any maintenance or adjustments. An accidental power-on could cause the propellers to spin suddenly, creating a serious risk of injury.
• If you detect a potential collision, immediately reduce the throttle to zero to prevent damage to the drone or harm to anyone nearby.
• Keep all hands, fingers, and loose objects well clear of the propellers at all times, even when the drone is on the ground.
• For indoor or confined-area operations, particularly if you are still learning, use a tether or protective enclosure to minimize the risk of accidents.

Choosing the right location for flying the Matrice 350 RTK is critical to ensure safety, legal compliance, and optimal performance. Follow these guidelines:

• Select a location that is spacious, free of obstacles, and approved for commercial or industrial drone operations. Avoid residential areas, public parks, or crowded places.
• Ensure that the area is clear of people, animals, and vehicles. The Matrice 350 RTK’s powerful rotors can cause serious injury if safety distances are not maintained.
• Check the weather and environmental conditions. Avoid strong winds, rain, or poor visibility. Always operate within the drone’s performance limits as detailed in the user manual.
• Verify that the location complies with local aviation laws and drone regulations, including any necessary permits for commercial or industrial flights.
• Whenever possible, choose a location with clear lines of sight and minimal electromagnetic interference to ensure reliable communication between the drone and the remote controller.

Setting Up the Aircraft

Before operating the Matrice 350 RTK, it’s critical to properly configure the aircraft to ensure safe and accurate flight operations. Unfold the arms, secure them with the locking mechanisms, attach batteries, mount your payload, and place the drone on level ground. Use the table below to guide your setup:

Setting	Set To	Question to Ask Yourself	Reason
Arms	Fully unfolded and locked	Are all arms securely locked in place?	Ensures stability during takeoff and prevents accidental collapse mid-flight.
Batteries	Dual TB65 batteries	Are the batteries fully inserted and confirmed with a click?	Proper battery installation is essential for power and flight time.
Payload	Zenmuse H20/H20T, L1, P1, or certified third-party sensor	Which payload will you be using for this mission?	The payload affects weight, balance, and mission parameters.
Gimbal Lock	Removed	Is the gimbal lock removed before powering on?	Prevents mechanical damage and allows the gimbal to operate freely.
Ground Placement	Level surface	Is the drone on level ground?	Prevents calibration errors and ensures stable takeoff.
Maximum Takeoff Weight	≤ 9.2 kg	Does the total weight, including batteries and payload, exceed the limit?	Exceeding weight limits can affect flight performance and safety.
Hovering Accuracy	RTK enabled	Are you using RTK positioning for precision hovering?	Ensures the drone can maintain ±0.1 m accuracy for professional tasks.
GNSS	GPS + GLONASS + BeiDou + Galileo	Are all satellite signals strong and healthy?	Required for accurate positioning and safe navigation.
Operating Environment	-20° to 50°C, wind ≤ 12 m/s	Is the weather suitable for flight?	Ensures drone performance and prevents environmental damage.
Propellers	Installed correctly	Are the propellers securely attached and free of damage?	Prevents flight instability and reduces the risk of accidents.

Remote Controller Configuration

Properly setting up the DJI RC Plus remote controller is essential for safe and efficient operation of the Matrice 350 RTK. Power on the controller and ensure it connects seamlessly with the aircraft. Launch the DJI Pilot 2 app, which serves as the mission control hub. Check battery levels, screen brightness, and any field accessories such as tablet mounts or shoulder straps. Sync flight logs if required before starting the mission.

Setting	Set To	Question to Ask Yourself	Reason
Remote Controller	DJI RC Plus	Is the remote controller powered on and connected to the aircraft?	Ensures communication between the drone and controller for flight control.
App	DJI Pilot 2	Is the app launched and ready for mission planning?	Central hub for flight telemetry, mission parameters, and payload control.
Screen	7.02-inch LCD touchscreen, 1920×1200, max brightness 1200 nits	Is the screen brightness adequate for outdoor visibility?	Ensures clear display of flight data in all lighting conditions.
Controller Battery	Built-in Li-ion 6500 mAh @ 7.2 V	Is the battery fully charged?	Prevents unexpected power loss during critical operations.
External Battery (WB37)	4920 mAh, 7.6 V	Is the external battery installed if extended operation is needed?	Extends operating time up to approximately 6 hours.
Weight	1.25 kg (without WB37), 1.42 kg (with WB37)	Is the controller comfortable for prolonged use?	Ergonomics affect field operation efficiency.
GNSS	GPS + Galileo + BeiDou	Are satellite signals strong and stable?	Ensures accurate positioning and reliable control.
Charging	USB-C fast charger / Battery station, max 65 W, 20 V	Is the battery fully charged using the correct charger?	Prevents battery damage and ensures full operating time.
Operating Temperature	-20° to 50°C (-4° to 122°F)	Are environmental conditions within safe limits?	Prevents damage to electronics and ensures stable operation.
Operating Frequency	2.4 GHz / 5.725–5.850 GHz	Are frequencies allowed in your region?	Ensures compliance with local regulations and prevents interference.
Wi-Fi Protocol	Wi-Fi 6	Is Wi-Fi enabled for firmware updates or telemetry?	Enables data communication and app connectivity.
Bluetooth Protocol	Bluetooth 5.1	Is Bluetooth functioning for device pairing?	Provides additional connectivity options for accessories.
Transmitter Power	14–33 dBm depending on frequency & region	Is the power setting compliant with local regulations?	Prevents legal issues and interference with other devices.
Ingress Protection	IP54	Is the controller protected from dust and splashes?	Provides durability for outdoor industrial operations.

Video Transmission Configuration

Reliable video transmission is critical for professional operations with the Matrice 350 RTK, ensuring real-time monitoring, mission control, and safety. The drone uses the DJI O3 Enterprise transmission system, which provides robust, low-latency video feed even in challenging environments.

Setting	Set To	Question to Ask Yourself	Reason
Video Transmission System	DJI O3 Enterprise	Is the transmission system active and functioning properly?	Ensures stable, high-quality video feed for safe flight operations.
Antennas	4 video transmission antennas, 2T4R	Are all antennas securely positioned and unobstructed?	Maximizes signal strength and reduces risk of interference.
Max Transmission Distance (Unobstructed, free of interference)	20 km (FCC), 8 km (CE/SRRC/MIC)	Is your mission within the legal transmission range?	Prevents signal loss and ensures compliance with regulations.
Max Transmission Distance (Low interference, buildings)	0–0.5 km	Are there buildings or obstacles nearby that could block the signal?	Buildings can severely reduce video transmission range.
Max Transmission Distance (Low interference, trees)	0.5–3 km	Are trees or foliage present along the flight path?	Foliage can attenuate signals and reduce range.
Max Transmission Distance (Strong interference, urban landscape)	1.5–3 km	Is the area densely populated with wireless signals?	Urban interference can degrade signal quality and latency.
Max Transmission Distance (Medium interference, suburban landscape)	3–9 km	Are you flying in moderately populated areas with some wireless interference?	Helps estimate realistic transmission range for planning purposes.
Max Transmission Distance (Low interference, suburb/seaside)	9–20 km	Is the environment relatively open with minimal interference?	Enables maximum operational range for professional aerial missions.

RTK Positioning Setup for Matrice 350 RTK

The Matrice 350 RTK provides centimeter-level positioning accuracy, which is essential for professional applications such as surveying, mapping, inspection, and precision agriculture. Setting up RTK correctly ensures reliable data and safe flight operations.

1. Launch the DJI Pilot 2 App
Power on the DJI RC Plus controller and open the DJI Pilot 2 app. This application is the central control hub for the Matrice 350 RTK and provides access to flight telemetry, RTK configuration, and mission planning tools.

2. Navigate to RTK Settings
Within the app, go to Settings → RTK. This section allows you to configure the positioning system and select the appropriate correction method for your mission.

3. Select the RTK Method
Choose between the two RTK operation modes:

• • Network RTK (via NTRIP): Uses real-time correction data through an internet connection. Ideal for missions where stable mobile or satellite internet is available.
    
  • D-RTK 2 Base Station: Uses a DJI D-RTK 2 Base Station for offline operations. This is suitable for remote areas without internet access.

4. Verify Connectivity

• Network RTK: Ensure your internet connection is strong and stable. The app will require active data communication to receive correction signals.
  
  
• D-RTK 2 Base Station: Ensure the radio link between the drone and the base station is strong, and that both devices are powered on and properly synced.
  

5. Enable RTK Corrections
Activate the chosen RTK mode in the DJI Pilot 2 app. Wait for the system to acquire sufficient satellite signals. The Matrice 350 RTK uses GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, and Galileo for reliable positioning, which ensures high-precision operations even in challenging environments.

6. Check RTK Status
Monitor the RTK status in the app. The status should read “RTK Fixed” before taking off. A fixed RTK status guarantees centimeter-level accuracy for both horizontal and vertical positioning, minimizing errors during mapping, inspection, or survey missions.

7. Confirm Mission Parameters
Verify that your RTK setup aligns with your mission requirements:

• Mapping & Surveying: RTK Fixed ensures accurate geotagging of images and data points.
  
• Inspection & Industrial Operations: Precise hovering and navigation allow for safe operation around structures or equipment.
  

8. Final Pre-Flight Verification
Before starting the flight:

• Ensure all satellite signals are strong and stable.
  
• Confirm that the drone, controller, and base station (if used) are fully powered.
  
• Make sure the drone is on level ground to avoid calibration errors.
  

9. Proceed with Flight
With RTK fixed and all systems verified, the Matrice 350 RTK is ready for high-precision flight. Always monitor the RTK status during the mission, especially if flying in areas with potential signal interference.

Next steps

The DJI Matrice 350 RTK is a highly capable and versatile platform designed for professional enterprise drone operations. Its full potential, however, is realized only when pilots follow proper pre-flight preparation, mission planning, and post-flight procedures. By adhering to this step-by-step guide, operators can ensure that every flight is safe, precise, and efficient.

Whether you are conducting large-scale mapping, inspecting critical infrastructure, or supporting emergency response efforts, the M350 RTK delivers reliable and high-quality results. With careful setup, attention to detail, and proper use of advanced features like RTK positioning, video transmission, and payload management, the Matrice 350 RTK empowers teams to operate confidently and achieve professional outcomes in even the most demanding environments.