FCC's New Foreign Drone Ban Blocks DJI Imports, Shaking the US Commercial UAS Market

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has implemented a sweeping new ban on foreign-made Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). The agency added all foreign-manufactured UAS and their UAS critical components to its “Covered List.” This action, effective around December 22, 2025, is a major escalation in US efforts to secure its airspace from perceived national security threats.

This decision effectively prevents new drone models from receiving the necessary FCC equipment authorization. Without this authorization, new devices cannot be legally imported, marketed, or sold in the United States.

The Impact on DJI Commercial Drones

The most significant impact falls on Chinese manufacturer DJI, the world’s largest dronemaker. Industry data indicates that Chinese firms, particularly DJI, control an estimated 70% to 90% of the US commercial drone market.

The new rules do not single out DJI by name. However, the designation of all foreign-made UAS and components places the company and competitors like Autel on the Covered List by default. This move effectively blocks all future DJI product innovation from the US market.

Key Details of the FCC Ban

The FCC’s action is based on a National Security Determination. An Executive Branch interagency body found that foreign-produced UAS and their parts pose “unacceptable risks to the national security risk of the United States.”

• New Models Blocked: Future drone models from foreign manufacturers cannot receive FCC authorization for import or sale.
• Parts Ban: The ban includes UAS critical components, such as flight controllers, data transmission devices, motors, and batteries. This makes future maintenance and repair challenging.
• Existing Fleets are Safe: The rule does not affect drones already purchased or models that previously received FCC approval. Commercial operators can continue to use their existing fleets.

Implications for Commercial Aviation Operations

The US foreign drone ban presents a significant challenge for commercial aviation news stakeholders. Airlines, airports, and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities widely use drones for critical tasks.

For example, UAS are essential for inspecting large aircraft like Boeing 787s or Airbus A350s. They perform detailed exterior checks for damage and corrosion faster than traditional methods. Airports rely on drones for inspecting runways, taxiways, and perimeter security fencing.

The immediate risk is to supply chain stability. Since foreign manufacturers are now unable to import replacement parts, operators face an aging fleet with limited repair options. This could force a rapid transition to new platforms.

This regulatory shift is expected to spur the growth of a domestic commercial drone market. The goal is to “unleash American drone dominance,” according to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr. The Department of Defense (DOD) has already established a “Blue UAS Cleared List” of approved domestic manufacturers.

Commercial operators must now pivot their procurement strategies. They must focus on UAS that comply with the American Security Drone Act and the new FCC rules. This will likely lead to higher costs and a temporary reduction in available specialized drone models. However, it also creates an opportunity for US-based companies to innovate secure, high-performance UAS solutions for the aviation sector.