So you’re a drone pilot looking to get a jump start on 2024 Black Friday deals? Well, you’re in luck! Holidays seem to be starting earlier and earlier each year, and 2024 is no exception when it comes to Black Friday.
Many 2024 Black Friday deals are already live. Companies are fighting for your attention and your dollars and want to get your business before their competitors do.
While those early marketing emails can be a bit much, the good news is you don’t have to wait until Black Friday to start shopping. I’ve been gathering deals from top brands all season long. I’ve been tracking drones and their prices for over 10 years, and I’ve weeded out the ones that are actually worth your time.
So, I’ve put together an early guide to the 2024 Black Friday deals for drone pilots that are worth your time. Get ready to shop for these deals and level up your drone game!
Best Drone Deals
20% Off DJI Air 3 Fly More Combo (Now $1,240)
Price: $1,240 (reg $1,549). This fall, DJI released the DJI Air 3S, an upgraded version of the original Air 3 with some nice upgrades. Among the highlights are improved omnidirectional obstacle sensing, a new Panorama mode, and 42GB of internal storage (up from 8GB on the DJI Air 3).
The Air 3S is designed to make flying more seamless, so it’s a great choice for both amateur and professional drone pilots. The improved obstacle-sensing technology makes it safer to fly in complex environments, the new Panorama mode makes it easy to capture wide-angle shots, and the increased storage means you can store more high-resolution photos and videos without having to transfer them as often.
It’s clear the DJI Air 3S outperforms the Air 3, but the price point is a big factor. The Air 3S Fly More Combo with the DJI RC 2 controller is the same price as the DJI Air 3 on regular days. But for Black Friday 2024, the Air 3 is $300 off, so it’s $1,240. Now you have a dilemma: do you get the better Air 3S or take the $300 off Air 3? Either way, you win—whether you choose the better drone or save some cash
As a drone pilot, I know the importance of finding that balance between features and budget. The DJI Air 3 has been a reliable and good all-around drone for capturing amazing aerial footage. If you’re just starting out or want a drone for casual use, the Air 3 at this price is a great choice. But if you’re an experienced pilot or will be using your drone for professional purposes, the Air 3S might be worth the extra cost for the extra features.
I reviewed DJI Air 3 in the summer of 2023 and was very impressed. I still think it’s a great drone, especially if you want quality and performance without the price tag.
Where to Buy?
Buy the DJI Air 3 Fly More Combo with DJI RC 2 controller from Amazon: $1,240
Buy the DJI Air 3 Fly More Combo with DJI RC 2 controller from Drone Nerds: $1,240
More Consideration
When you’re buying, consider the accessories that come with the Fly More Combo. This bundle usually includes extra batteries, a carrying case, and extra propellers, which will enhance your flying experience. Having extra batteries means you can fly longer and capture more footage without interruptions.
52% Off DJI Power 1000 (Now $480)
Price: $480 (was $999). This is an amazing deal on what I consider one of the best portable power stations for drone pilots. The DJI Power 1000 was on sale for $699 earlier this week, but now it’s $480.
Why DJI Power 1000?
Portable power stations like the DJI Power 1000 offer the best of both worlds: a car charger (which is slow and underpowered) and a generator (which is loud and bulky). Here are the key features that make the DJI Power 1000 stand out:
Lightweight: Under 30 pounds. Perfect for road trips, camping, or any outdoor adventure where you need power for your devices.
Fast Charging: This power station can charge your devices in about an hour, so you spend less time waiting and more time flying. Whether you need to power your drone, camera, or other electronics, the DJI Power 1000 has you covered.
Whisper Quiet: One of the best features of the DJI Power 1000 is its quiet operation. It’s quieter than most household refrigerators, and it is perfect for use in peaceful outdoor settings where noise can be a problem.
I’m a drone flyer and outdoor enthusiast, so I can’t stress enough how useful a portable power station like the DJI Power 1000 is. It’s a must-have for anyone who goes on road trips or camps with their drone. Being able to charge multiple devices quickly and quietly means you can focus on getting that epic aerial footage without worrying about battery life.
Where to Buy?
Buy the DJI Power 1000 from B&H Photo
Buy the DJI Power 1000 from Amazon
DJI Mavic 3 Pro Fly More Combo (DJI RC): 0% APR and Free Water Bottle
Now you can get the DJI Mavic 3 Pro Fly More Combo (DJI RC) with 0% APR and a free DJI water bottle when you buy direct from DJI. This is a great way to get a top-of-the-line drone without the upfront cost.
Mavic 3 Pro Features
The Mavic 3 Pro is a beast for aerial creators with:
Triple Camera System: Shoot from any angle with this advanced system.
43 Minute Flight Time: More time in the air means more time to get the shot without having to land to recharge.
Hasselblad Imaging: Hasselblad is renowned for its quality, so your images and videos will be top-notch. It’s perfect for pro use.
The Fly More Combo comes with all the essentials, such as extra batteries, a charging hub, and spare propellers, so you’re ready to fly for hours right out of the box.
Financing
The 0% APR financing makes this $3,000 drone more affordable by spreading the payments out without interest. For those who have been wanting a top-of-the-line drone but can’t afford the full upfront payment, this is a great deal.
I find the financing option great for serious drone enthusiasts or pros who need high-end equipment but don’t have the budget to pay the full upfront. But be mindful of your financial situation. 0% APR means no interest during the promotional period, but missing payments or stretching your finances too thin can result in fees or negatively impact your credit score.
Where to Buy?
Buy the Mavic 3 Pro from Amazon
Buy the Mavic 3 Pro from B&H Photo
Lumenier QAV-PRO Products: 25% Off
If you’re a racer, don’t miss the deals at GetFPV, a store dedicated to DIY and FPV drones. They have many deals, but one of the best is 25% off all Lumenier QAV-PRO products.
Why Lumenier QAV-PRO?
Lumenier is a well-known brand in the FPV community for its high-end racing drones and parts. The QAV-PRO series is popular among racers because of its tough design, great performance, and versatility. Here are some of the key features that make Lumenier QAV-PRO products stand out:
Durability: Built with high-quality materials, the QAV-PRO frames are designed to withstand racing and freestyle flying and provide long life and reliability.
Lightweight: The QAV-PRO’s lightweight design allows for more agility, making it easier to fly in tight spaces and perform complex aerials.
Customization: Lumenier products often have customization options, so you can customize your drone to your flying style and preferences.
Performance: Fast and agile, the QAV-PRO series is designed for performance, which is why it’s a favorite among competitive racers.
How to Get the Deal?
The 25% off all Lumenier QAV-PRO products is applied automatically at checkout, so there are no promo codes or complicated processes. Just browse, add to cart, and save!
As an FPV racer myself, I can attest to the quality and performance of Lumenier products. The QAV-PRO series has never failed to impress me with its durability and responsiveness. If you’re looking to upgrade your racing setup or get into FPV, this is a great chance to get high-end gear without a
high price.
Other Drone Gifts
Pilot Institute’s Buy More, Save More Sale
Pilot Institute is your one-stop shop for online training courses for both manned and unmanned aircraft. While they are famous for their Part 107 test prep courses, they also have courses for manned aircraft operators, including check rides and instrument ratings.
Black Friday Sale: Buy More, Save More
This Black Friday Pilot Institute is having a Buy More, Save More sale where you can get more and save more. Here’s how it works:
30% off 1 class
40% off 2 classes
50% off 3 or more classes
Why Pilot Institute?
Full spectrum training: Pilot Institute has courses for all aspects of aviation, so you can find the training you need, whether you’re a drone pilot or a manned aircraft operator.
Experienced Instructors: Courses are taught by experienced instructors who share their expertise and practical knowledge so you can understand complex topics and prepare for your exams.
Flexible Learning: Online access means you can learn at your own pace so that you can fit your studies into your busy schedule. Perfect for those with work, family, and training.
Proven Results: Many students have completed their training and passed their exams after taking courses from Pilot Institute because of the well-structured content and supportive learning environment.
Personal: I’ve used Pilot Institute’s courses myself and found them super helpful for my own aviation journey. Buying multiple classes at a discount is a great opportunity to get more training and knowledge of aviation. Whether you’re preparing for the Part 107 exam or looking to improve your piloting skills, this is a great way to invest in yourself.
How to Get the Deal?
Just head to the Pilot Institute website, add the classes you want, and the discounts will apply at checkout.
Peltier Photo Courses: 25% Off
If you want to improve your photography, now is the time to check out Peltier Photo Courses. Former Air Force pilot John Peltier is famous for his FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Test Prep Course and his fun photography courses, including “Basics of Light, Composition, and Color.” He also offers courses specific to major camera brands like Nikon and Fujifilm.
Cheap Training Options
The classes are very affordable; most are under $50. You can also get one-time access to all his courses for $390, which is a full training package for those serious about improving their photography.
Cyber Week Special: 25% Off
This Cyber Week, all the courses at Peltier Photo Courses are 25% off the regular price when you use the code CYBER24—a great time to invest in your photography education at a discount.
Code: CYBER24
Valid through: Wednesday, December 4
Subscription Discounts
If you’re interested in subscriptions, the 25% discount will also apply to the first month of any subscription service. So now’s a great time to try out multiple courses and see which ones fit your photography style.
Potensic Mystery Box Surprises (Starting at $19.99)
I love the idea that Potensic has come up with Mystery Surprise Boxes! As a toy drone manufacturer, Potensic is running a Black Friday promotion that adds an element of fun to your shopping experience.
What’s in the Mystery Boxes?
These mystery boxes contain a variety of items drone enthusiasts will love:
Mini Learning Drones: These are for beginners or for practicing your flying skills.
Batteries: To keep your drones powered up and ready to fly.
Propellers: It’s always good to have extras on hand for replacements.
USB Cables: These are for charging and connecting your devices.
Controller Sticks: To enhance your flying experience.
For $20, you can get a mystery box with $40 worth of stuff. Larger boxes, like a $60 box with $40 worth of gear, are also available.
A Fun Risk
The items in the boxes are non-refundable, so unboxing is like the drone version of gambling! You never know what you’ll get, which makes it even more fun.
I like mystery boxes as a way to try out new products and accessories I might not have bought otherwise. They’re a great way to add some drone gear to your collection without spending a lot. Just be prepared for what you get to be different from what you expected!
How to Buy?
Don’t miss out on this chance to get a Potensic Mystery Box Surprise starting at $19.99. Treat yourself or surprise a fellow drone enthusiast with some fun surprises.
Give the Gift of a Vacation: Orlando World Center Marriott Drone Show
Looking for a gift idea this holiday season? How about the gift of a vacation? The Orlando World Center Marriott is having a drone show that’s free for hotel guests and runs the week after Christmas. It is a great chance to enjoy the show while relaxing in a beautiful resort.
Cyber Sale
If you’re thinking of booking a stay, now is the time! The hotel is having a Cyber Sale with 25% off weekend stays through January 20. Even during the busy Christmas week, it’s a great time to get away and enjoy some holiday fun in Orlando.
25% off weekend stays
Valid through: January 20
Available during: Christmas week
I like that you can combine a holiday vacation with a unique experience like a drone show. The Orlando World Center Marriott is a family-friendly resort with many amenities, so it’s a great place to relax and be entertained. Plus, the free drone show is a nice bonus for creating memories with your loved ones.
Book Now?
Visit the Orlando World Center Marriott website or call their reservations team. Book by Travel Tuesday.
