ATTI mode, or Attitude Mode, is the most manual way to fly a drone.
With the advancement of drone technology, there has been a growing trend towards automated features that reduce the pilot’s workload. Advanced sensors and intelligent flight modes have made drone piloting simpler than ever. However, there are scenarios where using ATTI mode is essential, such as in indoor inspections where GPS is unreliable.
In this flight mode, the pilot must intervene directly to control the drone’s attitude, with optical sensors disabled. A pilot should activate ATTI mode if they notice unpredictable behavior or stability issues due to the limitations of optical sensors in challenging scenarios.
What is ATTI Mode?
ATTI mode allows the drone to be piloted without smart features like GPS positioning and optical sensors. Essentially, the drone is in manual flight without any automatic corrections or assistance.
Most pilots typically fly in GPS or OPTI mode. However, when using ATTI, the lack of satellites and sensors means the drone can drift in different directions and lose altitude without pilot input. For this reason, every drone pilot should understand how to operate in ATTI mode when they can’t rely on automated systems.
When to Use ATTI Mode
Drones with ATTI mode are becoming less common. Older drones had this feature, but in the case of indoor drone technology, this capability is essential.
When flying in enclosed spaces like mines, sewers, and other confined locations, satellite connections are unreliable, making ATTI mode the ideal solution. The mining industry, for example, was one of the first to adopt drone technology in confined spaces due to the dangers and unpredictability of the sector.
Common Use Cases for ATTI Mode
ATTI mode is extremely useful in areas where the GPS signal is affected or out of reach.
- Internal inspections: Drones are used to inspect boilers, sewers, tanks, mines, and other confined spaces without GPS coverage.
- Bridge inspections: Large metal structures significantly reduce GPS signal accuracy.
- Building inspections: Steel and concrete used in construction can interfere with GPS signals.
- Critical infrastructure: Sensitive facilities, like military bases, may restrict GPS signal use for security reasons.
How Does ATTI Mode Work?
In ATTI mode, the pilot assumes full control of the aircraft. Positioning technologies, such as GPS, are unavailable, making the flight purely manual.
Drones in ATTI mode use an integrated barometer, which measures atmospheric pressure to determine altitude. This helps keep the aircraft level but does not prevent the drone from drifting in different directions if affected by wind.
What Conditions Automatically Trigger ATTI Mode?
- Flying over reflective or monochromatic surfaces
- Operating a drone with dirty optical sensors
- Flying near concrete and large metal structures
- High-speed flight modes, making it difficult to maintain a signal
Benefits of Flying in ATTI Mode
- Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Losing GPS signal or encountering interference can quickly turn a smooth flight into a disaster. Mastering flight in ATTI mode reduces dependence on automated systems, preparing the pilot for any eventuality. - Optimized for Indoor Flights
Indoor operations present specific challenges, such as obstacles and signal interference. Using ATTI mode eliminates these risks, relying on the barometer and the pilot’s skill. - Smoother Footage
Drones in GPS mode tend to make constant adjustments, resulting in shaky footage. ATTI mode provides a smoother flight, making it ideal for professional photographers and filmmakers seeking high-quality footage.
ATTI Mode Flying Tips
- Start Slow
If you’ve never flown a drone manually, take it easy. Practice basic maneuvers like takeoff, landing, and flying in a figure-eight pattern. This will help avoid unnecessary accidents. - Fly in Open Spaces
Practice flying in ATTI mode in wide, open areas with no people nearby. Avoid regions with lakes, rivers, or obstacles that may complicate the operation. - Monitor Weather Conditions
Wind can make control more difficult in ATTI mode, so start with favorable weather and gradually try flying in stronger winds as you gain confidence. - Practice on a Cheaper Drone
No one wants to crash an expensive drone! Start with cheaper drones that don’t have GPS, and then move on to the Elios 3.
The Future of ATTI Mode
While consumer drones are moving away from manual modes, ATTI mode remains relevant for industrial applications. Drones like the Flyability Elios 3 are essential for complex internal operations where conventional drones cannot perform effectively.
Other Common Drone Flight Modes
In addition to ATTI, there are other common flight modes: ASSIST, GPS, and OPTI.
- ASSIST Mode: Used before operations, sensors around the drone help keep it stable in place.
- GPS Mode: The most common mode, used when the drone can connect to satellites, providing precise navigation and features such as Waypoint Navigation and Return to Home.
- OPTI Mode: Based on optical sensors, stabilizing the drone without GPS, ideal for indoor environments.
At XD4Solutions, you’ll find the best industrial drones, with customized options for your operations. Contact us and modernize your company with Flyability drones!
