FCC’s import ban on the best new drones starts today
DJI sent numerous requests to the U.S. government to audit its devices in hopes of avoiding a ban, but the federal ban was ultimately enacted based on previously acquired information, The New York Times reported this week.
The news means Americans will miss out on new drone models from DJI, which has 70% of the global drone market in 2023, according to Drone Industry Insights, and is widely considered the premium drone maker. People can still buy drones from American companies, but American drones have a lackluster reputation compared to drones from DJI and other Chinese companies, like Autel. U.S.-made drones also have a reputation for being expensive, usually much more expensive than their Chinese counterparts. DaCoda Bartels, COO of FlyGuys, which helps commercial drone pilots find work, told the Times that American drones are also “half as good.”
Hobbyists also fear the ban will hamper their ability to procure drone parts, potentially affecting the repairability of approved drones and DIY projects.
U.S.-based drone companies, meanwhile, are optimistic about their ability to win business in an industry where it has historically been difficult to compete with Chinese brands. It’s also possible that the ban will simply lead to fewer U.S. drone purchases.
In a statement, Michael Robbins, president and CEO of the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), which counts U.S. drone companies like Skydio among its members, said the ban will “truly unleash U.S. drone dominance” and that the United States cannot “risk…dependence” on China for drones.
“By prioritizing reliable technology and resilient supply chains, the FCC’s action will accelerate innovation, improve system security, and ensure the U.S. drone industry grows rather than remaining under foreign control,” Robbins said.
Naturally, DJI is “disappointed” by the FCC’s decision, it said in a statement released Monday, adding:
Although DJI has not been singled out, no information has been released on what information the executive branch used to reach its decision. Concerns about DJI’s data security are not based on evidence and instead reflect protectionism, contrary to the principles of an open market.
