Do Drones Float? Flying Over and Into Water Explained

Drones are often used to capture breathtaking footage over oceans, lakes, and rivers. But what happens if a drone falls in water? Will it float, sink, or survive the experience? In this in-depth post, we explore what really happens when drones encounter water, how to avoid damage, and whether DJI drones and others can safely fly over or even go into water.

Does a Drone Float or Sink?

The simple answer to “does a drone float?” is no. Most consumer and professional drones, including DJI drones, are not designed to float. They are constructed with dense components like batteries, motors, and gimbals that weigh more than water. As a result, if a drone crashes into a body of water, it will usually sink unless it is specifically fitted with floatation gear.

What Happens if a Drone Falls in Water?

When a drone falls into water, several things can go wrong very quickly. The most immediate concern is electrical short-circuiting. If the battery or flight controller gets wet, the drone can instantly shut down, corrupt its data, or worse, catch fire once removed and powered up. Even saltwater can corrode internal components in a matter of hours.

If your drone crashes into freshwater and you retrieve it immediately, there may be a chance to save it. But the sooner you act, the better. Disconnect the battery at once, avoid powering it on, and dry it completely using silica packs or a specialised drone drying bag.

Will a Drone Sink Instantly?

In most cases, yes. Standard drones do not come with any buoyancy. Some may float briefly if they land flat or on a prop arm, but this is rare. Professional drone operators often carry floatation kits, parachutes, or landing gear that keeps the drone above water if a water landing is required or likely.

Can DJI Drones Fly Over Water?

Yes, DJI drones like the Mavic 4 Pro or Inspire 3 can safely fly over water. But there are caveats. Flying close to water can cause GPS reflections and downward sensor confusion. The drone may struggle to hold altitude or react erratically. Pilots should disable obstacle sensors or switch to manual altitude modes when flying close to reflective surfaces like water. Always maintain a safe altitude and avoid low, hover-heavy flight patterns over water bodies.

Can a Drone Work Underwater?

Standard aerial drones cannot work underwater. Their motors, electronics, and batteries are not waterproof. Water pressure and signal interference also make underwater flight impossible for traditional quadcopters.

However, there are specially built underwater drones, also known as ROVs (remotely operated vehicles), designed for underwater exploration, inspection, and filming. But these are an entirely different category of technology and are not capable of aerial flight.

Can a Drone Fall from the Sky Without Warning?

Yes, drone crashes do happen. A drone can fall from the sky due to low battery, firmware glitches, motor failure, or signal loss. Water-related crashes are particularly common when flying over lakes or beaches, as strong gusts or misjudged battery levels can lead to unplanned descents.

To avoid this, always perform a full pre-flight check, monitor your battery level closely, and set your return-to-home altitude above any obstacles. We regularly do drone shoots on Sydney Harbour. Flying Glass can handle difficult shots over water — if you’re unsure about your equipment or permissions, we can do the shoot for you.

Is It Easy to Crash a Drone Over Water?

Water adds a unique layer of risk. Reflections can confuse sensors, winds can be stronger and more unpredictable over open areas, and emergency landings are not an option. Many beginner pilots are unaware of how sensitive altitude sensors can become over reflective surfaces, leading to abrupt drops or crashes. If your drone doesn’t have waterproofing or floatation, even a minor misjudgement can be costly.

This is why experienced drone operators take extra precautions, including practising emergency procedures and maintaining greater altitude margins over water. For those without commercial drone training, we also offer drone training courses to help you learn the rules and fly safely.

Can Drones Go In and Out of Water?

Very few drones are designed to go into and out of water. Some highly specialised amphibious drones exist and are built with waterproofing, sealed compartments, and buoyant frames. These are typically used for search and rescue, marine monitoring, or military applications — and come with a hefty price tag.

For recreational or professional cinematography drones, going in and out of water is not possible without extensive custom modifications and significant risk. If you’re working on a project requiring aerial and aquatic footage, it’s best to use both a drone and an ROV, or simply hire a professional team like Flying Glass with access to a broader toolkit.

Can You Waterproof a Drone?

Some pilots attempt to waterproof drones with silicone conformal coating, waterproof sprays, or sealed enclosures. While this may provide some resistance to moisture and light rain, it won’t guarantee full protection in a water crash. The battery, gimbal, and motor systems remain highly vulnerable to water ingress.

If you’re flying in wet conditions or over water regularly, consider drones with purpose-built protection or invest in floatation kits. Alternatively, hire a drone operator experienced in risky environments who is fully licensed and insured.

How to Protect Your Drone When Flying Over Water

• Install floatation gear if low-altitude flight is required.
• Use propeller guards for improved stability and emergency landings.
• Keep altitude well above water to avoid sensor issues.
• Fly in manual or ATTI mode when necessary to prevent erratic sensor behaviour.
• Check wind speeds and avoid flying in high gust conditions.
• Plan your flight path and return-to-home carefully before launch.
• Carry a waterproof retrieval kit if flying over lakes, rivers, or the sea.

What If You Need Drone Footage Over Water but Don’t Have Permission?

Many locations in Australia require special permissions to operate drones, especially over beaches, rivers, and national parks. If you don’t have the required permits or OC (Operator’s Certificate), Flying Glass can capture the aerial footage for you. Our experienced drone cinematographers are fully licensed and insured and have worked on projects across Australia, including coastal TVCs, documentaries, and luxury real estate.

Learn to Fly Drones Commercially in Australia

If you’re serious about mastering drone flight — especially for commercial work — enrol in one of our RePL training courses. You’ll learn how to handle emergency procedures, understand CASA regulations, and develop confidence flying in complex environments, including near water.

So, Do drones float?

So, will a drone float? Not unless you’ve modified it or purchased an amphibious model. Can drones fall from the sky or sink in water? Absolutely. Flying over water is risky but manageable with the right precautions, training, and equipment. Whether you need drone footage over a harbour, beach, or lake — or want to upskill and get your RePL — Flying Glass is here to help you do it safely and professionally.