In recent years, there has been growing demand for drones that can fly at extremely high altitudes for purposes like aerial surveying, inspection, mapping, and communications. Specialized high-altitude long endurance (HALE) drones are now available that can operate at elevations of 20,000 feet or more.
In this article I will recommend this drones for you:
1、Autel Evo 2
2、Parrot Anafi
3、Xiaomi Fimi X8
4、Skydio 2
5、DJI FPV Drone
6、DJI Mini 2
7、WingtraOne
What is the highest altitude a drone can fly?
The current world record for the highest altitude achieved by a drone is held by the DJI Matrice 300 RTK, which reached an elevation of 8,849 meters (29,029 feet) in 2018. This high-altitude flight took place at the Muroc Dry Lake in California and greatly exceeded the previous record of 6,168 meters. To reach such an extreme altitude, DJI customized the Matrice 300 with upgraded motors, propellers and batteries to cope with the thin air and extreme cold temperatures. Most consumer drones are limited to flying below 400 feet, but specialized high altitude drones like the Matrice 300 can handle elevations of over 24,000 feet. Using pressurized payloads and advanced avionics, future high-altitude drones may be able to reach over 30,000 feet to push the boundaries of possible flight envelopes.
How high can a drone fly Physically?
Physically, there are no strictly set limits on the maximum altitude a drone can reach, but there are practical limitations based on technological capabilities, regulations, and physiological conditions.
In terms of technology, current battery, motor and material limitations mean most consumer drones top out at around 2,000-4,000 meters (6,500-13,000 ft) altitude. The altitude record for a drone is held by the modified DJI Matrice 300 RTK which reached 8,849 meters (29,029 ft) in 2018.
Regulatory restrictions also play a role. In many countries, drones are not permitted to fly higher than 400 feet or 120 meters without special exemptions. This keeps them away from manned aircraft space.
Physiologically, the low air density, freezing temperatures, and lack of oxygen make high altitude flight over 9,000 meters (29,500 ft) very challenging. Drones would likely need a pressurized and climate controlled interior at extremes past this threshold.
With continuing improvements in drone technology, batteries, autonomous control systems and materials science, future drones will likely keep pushing the boundaries and reach new records for maximum possible altitudes. But for now, regulatory and safety concerns will keep most civilian drones confined to lower elevations under a few thousand feet.
Best high altitude drones in 2024
| Drone Model | Price | Flight Time | Range | Camera Resolution | Recommendation Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Autel Evo 2 | $1,500 | 40 min | 9 km | 48MP | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Parrot Anafi | $700 | 25 min | 4 km | 21MP | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Xiaomi Fimi X8 | $500 | 33 min | 8 km | 12MP | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Skydio 2 | $1,000 | 23 min | 6 km | 12MP | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| DJI FPV Drone | $1,299 | 20 min | 6 km | 4K | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| DJI Mini 2 | $449 | 31 min | 10 km | 12MP | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| WingtraOne | $22,000 | 55 min | 10 km | 42MP | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
1、Autel Evo 2
The Autel EVO II is a folding drone built for professional aerial photography and cinematography. This high-end drone features a 48MP 1/2-inch camera capable of shooting 8K video at 30fps. With a max video bitrate of 120Mbps and HDR capabilities, the EVO II produces incredibly detailed, vibrant footage. Some of the biggest pros of this drone are its industry-leading 8K video resolution, 40 minutes of flight time on a single charge, and omni-directional obstacle avoidance sensors.
Pros:
- Industry-leading 8K video resolution
- 48MP 1/2-inch camera
- 40 minute flight time per battery
- Advanced stabilization and low noise
- Omni-directional obstacle avoidance
Cons:
- Very high $1395 base price
- Large size makes it less portable
- Advanced app could be complex for beginners
The EVO II also boasts excellent stabilization and low-noise performance even in windy conditions. However, there are some downsides to consider with this premium drone. It carries a very high $1395 base price that caters more to professional creatives. The large form factor also makes it less portable than some competitors. While more advanced fliers will benefit from Autel’s robust app control, it may prove overly complex for beginner hobbyists. Overall though, the Autel EVO II stands as one of the top drones for 8K video and extended flight time.
2、Parrot Anafi
The Parrot Anafi is a foldable 4K camera drone designed for aerial photography enthusiasts and travelers. Weighing just 320g, it features a 180-degree tilt gimbal camera that can look up, down, and all around for unique perspectives. The Anafi also has up to 25 minutes of flight time, four pre-programmed cinematic shots, and an impressive digital zoom feature. Its compact size makes it easy to pack and take stunning aerial shots on your adventures.
Pros:
- 180-degree tilt gimbal camera
- Ultra-compact and lightweight body
- Up to 25 minutes of flight time
- 4K video recording and 21MP photos
- 2.8x lossless digital zoom
- Intuitive FreeFlight 6 app
- Foldable and travel-friendly
Cons:
- Somewhat limited range (2.5 miles)
- No obstacle avoidance sensors
- Advanced flying requires practice
- Smaller image sensor than premium drones
- Fewer intelligent flight modes
- Priced higher than competitors
3、Xiaomi Fimi x8
The Xiaomi Fimi X8 is a foldable drone focused on easy and safe flying for beginners. It packs a 3-axis stabilized 4K/30fps camera into a compact body that folds down for transport. The Fimi X8 has a maximum transmission range of 8km and flight time of up to 28 minutes. It includes auto takeoff/landing, GPS-based flight control, and intuitive gesture control features.
Pros:
- Foldable design for ultimate portability
- Shoots stable and crisp 4K video
- 28 minutes of flight time per charge
- Easy to fly with smart automation
- Gesture controls for selfies and maneuvers
Cons:
- Still a bit large when completely folded
- Not great for windy conditions due to light weight
- Advanced users may want more customization
- No front/rear obstacle avoidance sensors
- Maximum control range is shorter than some drones
4、Skydio 2
The Skydio 2 stands at the forefront of autonomous drone technology. With its advanced computer vision and AI systems, the Skydio 2 can intelligently track subjects while avoiding obstacles better than any other consumer drone. Six 4K navigation cameras analyze the environment in 3D to allow completely hands-free flying. Excellent camera specs like 4K/60fps video, HDR photos, and a physicial shutter make it a top choice for aerial cinematography. Its compact, folding design offers up to 35 minutes of flight time. Though expensive, the Skydio 2 sets the new standard for autonomous flight capabilities in a portable drone perfect for action sports, enterprise applications and more.
Pros:
- Best-in-class obstacle avoidance
- Intelligent tracking modes work flawlessly
- Superb 4K video and 12MP photo quality
- Long flight times up to 35 minutes
- Excellent stabilization and autonomous flying
- Durable and portable folding design
- Useful for action and outdoor shoots
Cons:
- Very expensive for a consumer drone
- Large size when unfolded
- Advanced features have a learning curve
- Occasional connectivity issues
- No hyperlapse or panorama modes
- Not great for manual or cinematic control
5、DJI FPV drone
The DJI FPV drone is a racing/freestyle quadcopter designed for an immersive First Person View (FPV) flight experience. With its low-latency HD video transmission, aerodynamic airframe and speeds up to 87 mph, the DJI FPV offers agile handling and exhilarating FPV flight capabilities.
Pros:
- Immersive FPV flight experience with OcuSync low-latency video transmission
- Innovative single-lens design provides a wide 150° FOV in HD video
- Speeds up to 87 mph with several flight modes for beginners and experts
- Easy to fly and maneuverable for a racing/freestyle drone
- 20 minutes maximum flight time on a full battery charge
- Safety features like Return-to-Home and hover in place
Cons:
- More expensive than some other FPV drones
- Large form factor may be intimidating for new FPV pilots
- FPV only view can increase risk of crashes for inexperienced users
- No 360-degree obstacle avoidance like other DJI drones
- Shorter battery life compared to traditional camera drones
- FPV headset required for immersive flight experience
6、DJI Mini 2
The DJI Mini 2 is a compact and lightweight drone focused on portability and ease of use. This tiny quadcopter folds down to fit in the palm of your hand and weighs less than 249 grams, so it does not require FAA registration in many countries. The Mini 2 captures stabilized 4K video and 12MP photos thanks to its integrated 3-axis gimbal and 1/2.3” CMOS sensor. It also features enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity and OcuSync 2.0 for reliable video transmission to your phone or controller up to 6.2 miles away.
Pros:
- Extremely portable and foldable design
- No drone license required due to low weight
- Captures smooth 4K video and crisp photos
- Long flight time up to 31 minutes
- Enhanced Wi-Fi speeds for better image transfer
- Intelligent flight modes and subject tracking
Cons:
- Still on the pricier side for a mini drone
- Wind can impact stability due to light weight
- No advanced obstacle avoidance sensors
- Controller not included by default
- Low-light and night image quality is just decent
7、WingtraOne
The WingtraOne is a professional vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drone designed specifically for aerial surveying, mapping and data collection applications. With its unique hybrid design and high-precision camera system, the WingtraOne enables efficient data capture across large areas.
Pros:
- Vertical take-off and landing capability allows launch/recovery from confined spaces
- Transitions to fixed-wing flight for longer range and endurance
- Covers up to 1.5 sq km on a single 20 minute flight
- Survey-grade 42MP camera captures highly detailed aerial imagery
- Automated flight planning optimized for photogrammetry
- Durable carbon fiber construction withstands tough field use
- Sealed enclosure allows flight in light rain or snow
- Highly stable platform for accurate and consistent image capture
Cons:
- Very high cost of $22,000+ prices out casual users
- Large and heavy airframe requires 2 people for launch/recovery
- Long processing time required to stitch and process captured imagery
- Limited safety features compared to consumer drones
- WingtraPilot software requires training and experience to master
- Manual control/FPV flight not possible with automated mapping focus
Final words about High Altitude Drones compared
HALE drones open up new possibilities for remote data collection and surveillance over large areas previously difficult to access frequently. Thanks to remarkable improvements in battery life, efficiency, motors and lightweight materials, these cutting-edge high flying drones greatly expand the operational envelope for unmanned aircraft. Leading aerospace companies continue to push the limits of possible altitudes as HALE drone technology evolves.
Know more about best high altitude drones, please check the following video out:
FAQs about High Altitude Drones compared
What is considered a high altitude drone?
Typically, drones that can fly above 16,000 feet elevation are considered high altitude. Some advanced models can operate over 20,000 feet.
What are the main uses for high altitude drones?
Common uses include aerial surveying, mapping, inspection of infrastructure, weather monitoring, search and rescue, and communication relays. The high vantage point is ideal for covering large areas.
What are some key manufacturers of high altitude drones?
Top companies making HALE drones include Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Airbus, DJI, AeroVironment, Aurora Flight Sciences, and Sunlight Aerospace.
How long can high altitude drones fly?
Flight times range from many hours to over a day depending on the model. The Boeing Insitu Integrator can fly for 24 hours while solar drones like the PHASA-35 have unlimited endurance during daylight.
What allows high altitude drones to fly so high?
Factors include aerodynamic design, lightweight materials like composites, high capacity batteries, and powerful electric motors optimized for low atmospheric density.
What challenges do drones face when flying at high elevations?
Challenges include reduced air density, lower lift, extremely cold temperatures, high winds, increased radiation, and decreased communications/GPS signal.
How are high altitude drones used for telecommunications?
They can provide aerial cell tower connectivity and WiFi in areas with limited infrastructure. Facebook and Alphabet have tested using them to expand internet access.
What payloads do high altitude drones carry?
Payloads vary but may include cameras, sensors, communications gear, atmospheric sampling equipment, radar, and technology demonstrations.
