Mail-in repair checklist

Identify the aircraft

For a DJI drone, provide the exact model rather than just Mini, Air, or Mavic. For a custom FPV build, include the frame and the affected component models if you know them. You do not need to diagnose the failed part to ask for a review. Say what you know and leave uncertain details open.

Describe what changed

• What happened before the problem appeared
• What the aircraft does now, including any exact error message
• Visible damage and the part or connection you want reviewed
• Previous repair attempts, parts changes, or firmware changes
• Any deadline and your city and state

Show the whole aircraft

Send a wider photo as well as close-ups of the affected area. A close-up alone may not show where a wire belongs or what else was damaged. Email photos to julian@citadeldrones.com with your name and aircraft model so they can be matched to your request. Do not include account passwords or payment details.

Ask about the full cost

Before committing, discuss the proposed work, replacement parts, any assessment charges, outbound and return shipping, and what happens if the scope changes. Ask how parts availability affects timing and what checks can be performed after repair. If repair coverage or a warranty matters to your decision, confirm the actual terms for the job. An initial conversation does not establish a fixed price or a guaranteed outcome.

Wait for acceptance

At Citadel, submitting an inquiry is not acceptance of a repair. Julian must confirm that the work fits our current capabilities before an aircraft is sent. We provide the shipping address privately after acceptance and agree on what equipment to include. Do not send batteries with the shipment. Follow the instructions for your accepted job rather than assuming a generic packing checklist covers every aircraft.

Choose the right repair scope

Our focus is accessible FPV wiring and connector soldering, straightforward component replacement, and select complete DJI gimbal assembly replacements reviewed by model. Advanced board repair, microsoldering, and internal camera or gimbal repair are outside that scope. Complete gimbal replacement also requires compatibility and calibration review before acceptance.

Keep the handoff clear

Before dispatch, confirm the accepted scope, included equipment, shipping arrangements, and the contact details to associate with the package. Ask how a new finding would be handled before extra work is agreed. Wichita-area pilots can use a local handoff after acceptance instead of shipping.

Talk to Julian

Julian Chacon reviews repair inquiries at Citadel Drones in Wichita, Kansas. Local and mail-in jobs need acceptance before the aircraft changes hands.