DJI AP100 Parachute: Upgrading the DJI Matrice 400 to the C6

With the AP100 parachute, DJI has launched a new safety solution for the Matrice 400, which immediately opens an important door: the transition to the C6 class. For operators currently flying a C3-certified Matrice 400, this means that beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations are now within reach, without having to purchase an entirely new aircraft.

In this article, we explain exactly what the AP100 is, why the C6 class matters, and how you can upgrade your existing Matrice 400.

The DJI Matrice 400 upgrades from the C3 to the C6 class with the AP100 parachute

In summary: The DJI AP100 parachute is a back-mounted safety system for the DJI Matrice 400 that, when combined with the appropriate certification, enables C5 and C6 operations in accordance with European drone regulations. Existing C3 owners can have their aircraft upgraded to C3+C6 through DJI by sending in the drone and the parachute together. The certification upgrade costs €299 (excluding shipping) and is currently available throughout Europe, with the exception of the United Kingdom.

What is the DJI AP100 parachute?

DJI AP100 parachute, standalone product image on a blue background

The AP100 is a backpack-mounted parachute that DJI developed specifically for the Matrice 400. The system weighs approximately 935 grams, features an independent power supply and a fully redundant connection, and can be activated either manually or automatically. In the event of an emergency (loss of control, motor failure, or departure from the authorized zone), the parachute deploys in less than 600 milliseconds and reduces the descent rate to below 5 m/s.

Important: The parachute is an additional safety measure and is no substitute for careful flight preparation or sound pilot judgment.

Why is the C6-Class important?

European drone regulations (Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945) link class designations to the types of operations you’re allowed to perform. For the Matrice 400, this makes a big difference:

C3: Permitted for flights in the open category (A3), at a safe distance from people and buildings.
C5 (via the AP100 accessory kit): enables flights within standard scenario STS-01 over populated urban areas.
C6 (factory-certified, parachute required): opens standard scenario STS-02, beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations.

For professional applications such as infrastructure inspections, pipeline inspections, or large-scale land surveys, that BVLOS capability is often exactly what matters most.

Upgrading to the New Matrice 400 (C6) vs. Upgrading an Existing C3

DJI AP100 parachute mounted on the arm of the DJI Matrice 400

There are two paths to C6 certification:

Purchase a new Matrice 400 (C6) Combo, with the AP100 pre-installed and certified at the factory.
Have your existing C3 device upgraded: the C6 class may only be assigned to factory-certified systems. This means you cannot install an AP100 parachute yourself to automatically become C6-compliant: DJI must inspect the combination of drone and parachute, update the firmware, and officially assign the C3+C6 label.

How does the C3 to C3+C6 upgrade work in practice?

For current owners of a Matrice 400 (C3), the upgrade process consists of a few clear steps:

Koop een AP100 parachute bij een erkende dealer.
Submit a request through the DJI portal for repair requests (individuals) or through the DJI dealer system (dealers), specifying “C3 to C6 upgrade” in the description.
Send your Matrice 400 and the AP100 parachute together to the location specified by DJI. You do not need to include the Batterij or Remote control.
DJI will conduct a product inspection: if any damage or other issues are found, DJI will contact you to discuss a solution.
Once approved, you’ll receive a quote, which you’ll accept and pay.
DJI will perform the C6 label upgrade and return your device along with the parachute.

Costs and Practical Details

DJI AP100 parachute deploys during a test flight over mountainous terrain

Label upgrade fee: €299
Shipping: The customer is responsible for the cost of shipping to the DJI location.
Coverage: This service is not covered by the Matrice 400 Care Plus warranty
Weight and flight time: The AP100 weighs about 935 grams and provides an average flight time of about 6 minutes per battery. The Matrice 400’s maximum takeoff weight (15.8 kg) remains fully intact.
Availability: Currently available only in Europe, except for the United Kingdom (which does not support the upgrade at this time)

When will this upgrade be available?

Official certification has been in effect since May 8, 2026: both the Matrice 400 (for C3 & C6) and the AP100 parachute (for C5) have been certified by the notified body Applus+. In mid-July, DJI also issued its own declaration of conformity in accordance with the applicable EASA directive for parachute systems. In short: the C6 upgrade has recently become officially available.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does the entire upgrade process take at DJI?

DJI vermeldt zelf geen exacte doorlooptijd in de officiële documentatie maar reken doorgaans op 2 tot 3 weken, afhankelijk van de drukte bij DJI. Dit is inclusief verzending naar de DJI-locatie, inspectie en de labelupgrade zelf.

If I have a C5-certified Matrice 400, can I still upgrade to C6 later on?

Yes. As long as your device only has the C3 marking (with or without a self-installed AP100 for C5), you can have DJI upgrade it to C3+C6.

Can I use the AP100 on DJI drones other than the DJI Matrice 400?

No, according to the official certificate, the AP100 (with the AP100MB mounting bracket) iscertified exclusively for use with the Matrice 400.