Spark falling out of sky

tjalex

rockmsu Posted at 2017-8-10 06:53
Honestly we should all start a class action suit against DJI until they have a proper recall and fix critical issues. Mine has not fallen from the sky but I'm a little worried to fly very far off the ground or over any terrain that isn't soft grass. There's a lot of false advertising in their promo videos that I'm sure a judge would rule in our favor.

Yes, i also bought the spark after watching youtube videos. Those who promoting so well we cant blame them since they still havent face any issue. soon they may. But sincerely, after watching many youtube and read many forum. Spark definitely will ruin the good name of DJI if they try not to solve it fast.

tjalex

Patrick C Posted at 2017-8-10 07:01
Generally, even if DJI classifies it under "repair" , if the damage is as severe as you say it is. They will replace your drone with a new one

Hi Patrick, Thanks for your respond. I am so glad for now. Yes, The fountain is deep, the water was so cold. it fell on Friday evening, i went for 3 days but no one came to clean. On tuesday i went again. the guy was there. He was so kind to help me. He switch of the fountain to go in with long boots. use fishing net to pull it out. After i sent to the shop, They open and show it to me. It was like completely messed like as if it was frozen for years. I really hope DJI will replace since it is under waranty and one month old. Sincerely after the fall. i lost hope and confident in spark and even mavic i lost confident . Hummm. Thanks alot.

todoweb

I can not get a response from DJI. Always the same answers, we apologize, we will answer you quickly ... But never a decision on the loss of my drone!

Patrick C

hallmark007 Posted at 2017-8-10 07:15
It's very interesting reading here, a lot of users have just been offered 30% discount and I understand their frustration, but a number of people who have returned Spark and received warranty, not one of them has insisted on getting results of what occurred during their flight and what caused the crash, this kind of information is extremely important to those who have lost their spark and being basically been given the bumsrush.
This data from your spark is yours you are entitled to get it from dji and you are entitled to receive a full an frank account of what is in your flight log and why because of reading your flight log they decided to offer you a warranty.
It's time for the guys who have received warranty to help those who have not.

I have requested a data analysis from DJI after receiving my spark which was replaced under warranty (almost 2 weeks ago). However it is strange I have not received an analysis, considering they determined it to not be pilot error. There is data somewhere, DJI has just not chosen to share it yet. Whether they know how to fix the issue or not.

Charles Adams

In partial defense of DJI (and the moderators)...

I did testing to determine what the logs contained and under what circumstances.  My conclusion (my own, others are free to disagree) is that the logs do not always contain enough information to draw a conclusion as to why a spark went down.  My soap box issue has been that even if the logs cut off prematurely, this in and of itself is a data point that something bad happened.  And that remains true.  But WHAT that "bad thing" is can be difficult or impossible to determine from just the logs alone.

I've simulated a few accidents.  The logs do not provide enough information to determine the cause of the accident.  Having the spark gives DJI more data.

The more I look into the DJI care agreement, the more it seems that it is carefully crafted to require the drone must be available.  Honestly, it seems pretty customer friendly.  Pretty much anything can happen for any reason and DJI will fix or replace the drone, no matter how much or little the customer is at fault, as long as the drone is available.

What additional data would be sufficient in order to convince DJI to replace a lost drone?  I don't know.  Video of the incident may be compelling enough.  Eye witness testimony seems to be insufficient.

I would like more open conversation with the DJI moderators on what the have been able to determine from recovered craft.  I would like to see claims handled more expediently.  But as unpopular as it might be to say it:  DJI is within their rights to deny replacement of a drone when all that they have is a person's report and his flight logs.

I also happen to think that it might be good customer relations to replace such drones, but that's a different topic.

hallmark007

Charles Adams Posted at 2017-8-10 10:14
In partial defense of DJI (and the moderators)...

I did testing to determine what the logs contained and under what circumstances. My conclusion (my own, others are free to disagree) is that the logs do not always contain enough information to draw a conclusion as to why a spark went down. My soap box issue has been that even if the logs cut off prematurely, this in and of itself is a data point that something bad happened. And that remains true. But WHAT that "bad thing" is can be difficult or impossible to determine from just the logs alone.

While dji are within their rights to deny warranty, they are not within their rights to refuse to disclose data information to those who have sent back spark for further data analysis, but so far we haven't seen one case where warranty was given with attached information as to what caused AC to crash. This data belongs to customers not dji and should be released with every warranty given.

Y2JDMBFAN

Charles Adams Posted at 2017-8-10 10:14
In partial defense of DJI (and the moderators)...

I did testing to determine what the logs contained and under what circumstances. My conclusion (my own, others are free to disagree) is that the logs do not always contain enough information to draw a conclusion as to why a spark went down. My soap box issue has been that even if the logs cut off prematurely, this in and of itself is a data point that something bad happened. And that remains true. But WHAT that "bad thing" is can be difficult or impossible to determine from just the logs alone.

So at this point would you recommend a Spark with the Fly More kit for a newbie with a few weeks experience about a year ago with a basic Dromida Ominus?

Charles Adams

Y2JDMBFAN Posted at 2017-8-10 10:49
So at this point would you recommend a Spark with the Fly More kit for a newbie with a few weeks experience about a year ago with a basic Dromida Ominus?

Ah...  the recommendation.  Where the rubber meets the road.

Until DJI can explain to me why we are having reports and videos of sudden drops, my recommendation is as follows:

If you intend to fly only where you are able to recover the drone, then this is a GREAT drone.  I LOVE IT!  I own 8 or so, and this is my favorite.

IF, however, you intend to fly over areas where recovering the drone is impossible (over deep water for example), then NO.  DO NOT buy this drone.  BTW...  that's my primary use case (flying over water).  Had I waited and had I known about these issues, I would not be buying a spark.

Y2JDMBFAN

Charles Adams Posted at 2017-8-10 11:35
Ah... the recommendation. Where the rubber meets the road.

Until DJI can explain to me why we are having reports and videos of sudden drops, my recommendation is as follows:

What's an equivalent manufacturer or model? Let's see how fast they delete this post...LOL

Charles Adams

Charles Adams Posted at 2017-8-10 11:35
Ah... the recommendation. Where the rubber meets the road.

Until DJI can explain to me why we are having reports and videos of sudden drops, my recommendation is as follows:

And something to add. I really struggle with my "yes" recommendation. I have asked for a statement from DJI about these spark drops, and their recommendations for spark usage. I've seen nothing other than the scripted responses (which are excellent, but do not address the desire for information).

I love you DJI, and I love the spark. But you really need to say something off script about these drops, what you've discovered from the dropped equipment which has been returned, what concerns we should have with our various flight use cases, and what precautions (if any) we should take.

hallmark007

Y2JDMBFAN Posted at 2017-8-10 12:21
What's an equivalent manufacturer or model? Let's see how fast they delete this post...LOL

Why would they delete your post, dji set up this forum, as you will see a lot more people around here complaining and the forum is still here.
Regarding drone there is nothing out there that has a good technology for the price than any dji drone whether we like it or not, if you find something better please let us know.

Charles Adams

Y2JDMBFAN Posted at 2017-8-10 12:21
What's an equivalent manufacturer or model? Let's see how fast they delete this post...LOL

I've purchased 3 DJI Drones, and a variety of "lesser" models. I'm unqualified to make an alternative recommendation, because all of my other drones are closer to "toys", they are not serious outside use drones.

At the moment, I would hope that DJI addresses the spark concerns and the communication concerns. I'm not interested in finding a competitor.

I want my DJI.

fans789f651b

Sat here tonight after my second day of Spark ownership wondering why, without warning, it lost power and fell from the sky. Fortunately I managed to recover it to find a broken propellor guard and damaged battery clip. The Spark seems to work okay, but surprised that after no more than 30 mins of flight time this happens.

Doesn't fill you with confidence does it?

I've emailed DJI support, have downloaded the flight logs and await a response. Fortunately bought the refresh care package and hoping I don't need to use a 'life' so soon into ownership.

Charles Adams

fans789f651b Posted at 2017-8-10 13:11
Sat here tonight after my second day of Spark ownership wondering why, without warning, it lost power and fell from the sky. Fortunately I managed to recover it to find a broken propellor guard and damaged battery clip. The Spark seems to work okay, but surprised that after no more than 30 mins of flight time this happens.

Doesn't fill you with confidence does it?

Can you grab the flight recorder data as well? I don't know how to inspect it, but others in the forums might. You might be a case where the user community can inspect the data and come up with some information.

Y2JDMBFAN

Charles Adams Posted at 2017-8-10 12:38
I've purchased 3 DJI Drones, and a variety of "lesser" models. I'm unqualified to make an alternative recommendation, because all of my other drones are closer to "toys", they are not serious outside use drones.

At the moment, I would hope that DJI addresses the spark concerns and the communication concerns. I'm not interested in finding a competitor.

Anyone know how the Mavic Pro compares?

tjalex

Actually, you are not the only one facing spark falling dead from sky. there already more than 20 cases.. me too. DJI already well aware of this issue. its something to do with battery connections, firmware or even their hardwares. spark has many problems.. its a cheap drone with cheap technology. so, careful with spark..

tjalex

Blackforce Posted at 2017-7-6 06:54
As a first time drone owner. I am a bit concerned about the number of reports of drones flying off, falling out of the sky and basically a lack of control. Whats going on? Is there a fault with the spark?

definetly there are many problems in spark. imagine more than 20 cases spark dead in mid air and falling like a dead body. imagine many cases of flyaway and so so. mine was dead on the mid air. not human error. i can tell you. spark is a bad idea.. its cheap with cheap technology.. its toy for babies not even for children. hummmm.

tjalex

rickysuperdog Posted at 2017-7-6 07:47
So many people have this issue but the company choose not to deal with it !

Hope soon the issue will be solve. remember..no machine is safe. out of 100. 10 may be having problems. hummm. spark is a bad idea. cheap drone and cheap technology.

hallmark007

tjalex Posted at 2017-8-10 14:45
Hope soon the issue will be solve. remember..no machine is safe. out of 100. 10 may be having problems. hummm. spark is a bad idea. cheap drone and cheap technology.

I think your exaggerating this a bit , it's no where near 10% , that would mean if 100,000 were sold 10,000 have fallen out of the sky.
While some have had genuine problems the vast majority have not had problems with falling out of the sky.

hallmark007

Y2JDMBFAN Posted at 2017-8-10 13:52
Anyone know how the Mavic Pro compares?

They are two completely different AC, if its value for money Mavic probably gives you that, it's also 10 months old so you could say it's an AC that is for the most settled down and is becoming more reliable all the time, it's great value for the money and not much out there to compare with.

fansf2304bca

tjalex Posted at 2017-8-10 06:35
Hi Natalia, I read many of your forum and under you all problems are solve clear cut. This is my problem. My spark fell like a dead body and the technician after checking the log and the data agreed its the spark error not human. its like power shut off. it was only at about 33 meters and 16 meter distance.
after sendibg the data and the logs..DJI instead replacing a new one. They ask the shop to send it for repair. This is bad idea since the drone was in the fountain..deep fountain for 3 days. only then i managed to fish it out by the help of the fountain cleaner who came to clean after 3 days. that fountain are prohibited to swim even. Now. after checking, it look the whole hardware was so badly damaged by the cold water in santiago, Chile,
Can you please help me.. advice me..what you think. DJI still going to repair or replace. I am worried if thier trying to repair to cut cost. Bad idea. It is under waranty . Thanks.

Alex en qué tienda compraste el drone?.

HoracioChavez

Hi, I am very worried about the matter of my drone that turned off in flight in the sky and fell very high and became unusable. My case number is CAS-881899-B4C5S1. DJI launches a statement on 07/25/2017 saying this: "DJI is aware of a small number of reports involving Spark drones that have lost power mid-flight. Flight safety and product reliability are top priorities. Our engineers are thoroughly reviewing each customer's case and working urgently. DJI products are tested for thousands of hours, and overwhelming number of customers enjoy using our products with minimal disruption".
They are aware of the problem and are not giving solution to any of them, I am really nervous because the cost of my Spark in Mexico was almost 1000 dollars with Fly More Combo that is equal to $ 17,699 Mexican pesos and I´m scared that DJI respond to me with the same answer "Sorry for your loss" "he subsequent flight situation was unknown , Which could not determine the cause of the accident". can not determine the cause of the accident is a shame. I have the record of my flight and it is clearly observed that at 91 meters the drone turned off, lost connections and fell from sky...
As you see, I´m from Mexico, Today I sent my Spark to DJI Offices in U.S.A. I will wait his answer but reading here i can suppose or can guess what the answer will be...
Any help, someone has validate the warranty?

DJI Diana

PaTaRnAk Posted at 2017-8-9 03:51
My case number is CAS-827179-T7V8Z0. Thank you!

Just checked it, I've escalated this case, what I wanna double confirm is, were you recording video at that moment?If yes, could you please double check if you are able to find the cached video.

DJI Diana

SasaGazikalovic Posted at 2017-8-9 03:59
Dear Diana, please take my apologize I came to learn that this s*** retail shop gave me some internal case number and as it looks they haven't even sent it to DJI , you can not imagine how pi*** I am. One thing is for sure I will never ever buy anything there ..the shop is Conrad Electronic Switzerland .. I see your willingness to dive into the issue and to help me and am very grateful, I regret so much that I thought the broken Spark had to be handled by the warranty of the shop and second that I wasn't aware of DJI refresh .. I will let you know once I get hold of the DJI case number

Sorry to read on it, I understand how you feel, feel free to contact us if you got a case number from DJI, we are willing to help.

tjalex

fansf2304bca Posted at 2017-8-10 15:47
Alex en qué tienda compraste el drone?.

Dronestore in Chile but they are the best and helping so fast and so perfectly my case. But Its the DJI that making the delays.

tjalex

HoracioChavez Posted at 2017-8-10 23:01
Hi, I am very worried about the matter of my drone that turned off in flight in the sky and fell very high and became unusable. My case number is CAS-881899-B4C5S1. DJI launches a statement on 07/25/2017 saying this: "DJI is aware of a small number of reports involving Spark drones that have lost power mid-flight. Flight safety and product reliability are top priorities. Our engineers are thoroughly reviewing each customer's case and working urgently. DJI products are tested for thousands of hours, and overwhelming number of customers enjoy using our products with minimal disruption".
They are aware of the problem and are not giving solution to any of them, I am really nervous because the cost of my Spark in Mexico was almost 1000 dollars with Fly More Combo that is equal to $ 17,699 Mexican pesos and I´m scared that DJI respond to me with the same answer "Sorry for your loss" "he subsequent flight situation was unknown , Which could not determine the cause of the accident". can not determine the cause of the accident is a shame. I have the record of my flight and it is clearly observed that at 91 meters the drone turned off, lost connections and fell from sky...
As you see, I´m from Mexico, Today I sent my Spark to DJI Offices in U.S.A. I will wait his answer but reading here i can suppose or can guess what the answer will be...

I am from Chile, My spark too diead on mid air. The power shut off. After checking.. its the spark error not human. The technician after checking the video and log and data. agreed. we sent to DJI and they responded and willing to repair it for free. since its under warranty. they will.
Spark has many issues. DJI know that i am sure. I am sure if your under warranty and spark lost power like my case. DJI will surely repair for free. That is what i heard and i got the news for my case. But if the damage is severe and unrepairable surely they have to replace a new one. So far, i dont hear that DJI replaced a new one but only repair. Hope you will get good news.

tjalex

hallmark007 Posted at 2017-8-10 15:15
I think your exaggerating this a bit , it's no where near 10% , that would mean if 100,000 were sold 10,000 have fallen out of the sky.
While some have had genuine problems the vast majority have not had problems with falling out of the sky.

No No.. i was telling just as an example. out of million copies at least 100 or even 1000 may go wrong. Dont take so serious. just exampels. ha ha ha.

schmots1

My drone gets back here monday. I plan to have it just hover a few feet off the ground for a couple batteries. Then just work on some of the photo skills. I don't know that I will trust a far away flight for a long time.

HoracioChavez

DJI Diana Posted at 2017-8-11 00:57
Just checked it, I've escalated this case, what I wanna double confirm is, were you recording video at that moment?If yes, could you please double check if you are able to find the cached video.

sorry it was a problem about my english, is not a video, it is flight record.. i dont have a video

HoracioChavez

tjalex Posted at 2017-8-11 04:36
I am from Chile, My spark too diead on mid air. The power shut off. After checking.. its the spark error not human. The technician after checking the video and log and data. agreed. we sent to DJI and they responded and willing to repair it for free. since its under warranty. they will.
Spark has many issues. DJI know that i am sure. I am sure if your under warranty and spark lost power like my case. DJI will surely repair for free. That is what i heard and i got the news for my case. But if the damage is severe and unrepairable surely they have to replace a new one. So far, i dont hear that DJI replaced a new one but only repair. Hope you will get good news.

you had a video when Spark was falling? I don´t

Deggers

HoracioChavez Posted at 2017-8-11 07:29
you had a video when Spark was falling? I don´t

Have you seen this video - I'll stick with my mavic i think

HoracioChavez

Deggers Posted at 2017-8-11 14:24
Mavic fall

Have you seen this video - I'll stick with my mavic i think

Wow, this exactly happened to me but 50 times higher... Yes stick with your Mavic, DJI needs to solve this big issue.

Deggers

HoracioChavez Posted at 2017-8-11 14:52
Wow, this exactly happened to me but 50 times higher... Yes stick with your Mavic, DJI needs to solve this big issue.

Quite amusing how it hits the ground then announces the home point has been updated.

Phuong Do

I saw that he got 3rd party accessories on Spark.could that overload or obstruct the motors somehow?
I meant,can anyone contact him and ask for a flight long?

hallmark007

Deggers Posted at 2017-8-11 15:14
Quite amusing how it hits the ground then announces the home point has been updated.

Well it shows he had good gps.....

Ken-Rick

No phuong do i don't think the aftermarket prop protectors did anything to overload it there is something wrong with the spark. Plus he has said he'd flown with them a couple times and no problems

Ken-Rick

I am definitely not ken rick wth! Is wrong with this website. Its like im using someone elses acct!

kabekid

well, they got back to me, told me they would repair it for 218 bucks, or i could use care refresh and get it replaced.
no explanation, nothing.

how disappointing. i did everything, sent in flight logs, black box info, and all. i looked at the video that was recording when it fell, and the video just abruptly stopped. its like my spark turned off.

CAS-857495-R3Y7K1
CAS-857735-Q2M5T7

what kind of customer service is this? i did my part and only expect them to do theirs and help me with a drone i already paid for, why should i have to pay even more to fix something that i wasn't even responsible for?

fans3b8dd2c3

a new Day began and another Spark fell from the Sky..Link below.

https://sparkpilots.zone/threads/spark-just-fell-off-the-sky.1672/

HoracioChavez

There are many cases.