If you fly drones in the US, especially for photography or video work, the legal fight between DJI and US regulators could shape what equipment you can buy next. 

According to a report by The Verge, DJI has filed a lawsuit challenging the Federal Communications Commission’s decision to block the import of new DJI drones and components, arguing that the agency overstepped its legal authority and caused serious harm to both the company and its customers.

The lawsuit follows a December decision by the FCC to expand its so-called Covered List to include drones and drone components made in foreign countries. The list is intended to restrict communications equipment deemed to pose an unacceptable risk to national security. 

As reported by The Verge, DJI says this move effectively bans new DJI drones from entering the US unless they receive approval from the Department of Defense.

What the FCC Decided

According to The Verge, the FCC’s decision did more than just stop future imports. The agency also gave itself the authority to retroactively block equipment that had previously been allowed into the country. 

That means drones and components already approved could potentially be restricted later, opening the door to a much broader crackdown on foreign made drone technology.

For DJI, this represents a major shift in how the US government regulates drones. The company argues that the FCC’s authority traditionally covers communications equipment, not entire drone systems. 

DJI claims that by adding foreign made drones to the Covered List, the FCC exceeded the limits set by Congress.

DJI’s Legal Argument

In its petition filed with a federal appeals court, DJI asks the court to vacate and block the FCC’s decision and declare it unlawful. 

According to The Verge, DJI argues that the FCC exceeded its statutory authority and violated the Fifth Amendment, which protects against deprivation of property without due process.

DJI also claims the decision has severely harmed its business in the US. 

In a statement cited by Reuters and referenced by The Verge, the company said the FCC’s action carelessly restricts DJI’s US operations and denies American customers access to its latest drone technology.

Why This Matters to Drone Photographers

DJI dominates the consumer and professional drone market in the US. For many photographers, filmmakers, surveyors, and inspectors, DJI drones are not just tools but the backbone of their workflows.

If the import ban remains in place, you may see fewer new models available, delayed product launches, or limited access to replacement parts. According to The Verge, the FCC’s move could also create uncertainty for people who already own DJI drones, especially if retroactive restrictions are enforced.

While the current action focuses on imports, the broader regulatory authority claimed by the FCC could affect future approvals, firmware updates, and compatibility with US based communication systems.

Broader Context Around DJI and US Regulation

This lawsuit comes after years of scrutiny of Chinese technology companies by US regulators. DJI has previously faced restrictions from the Department of Commerce and the Department of Defense, including limits on government use of its drones.

According to The Verge, the FCC’s decision represents one of the most aggressive regulatory steps yet, because it shifts power away from individual agencies and places import control directly in the hands of a communications regulator.

The FCC has argued that drones equipped with advanced radios and data links fall under its jurisdiction, especially when national security concerns are raised. DJI disputes this interpretation, saying it stretches the law beyond its original intent.

What Happens Next

The court will now review DJI’s petition and determine whether the FCC acted within its legal authority. The outcome could take months and may be appealed further, depending on the ruling.

For now, DJI drones already in the US remain legal to own and operate. The case is focused on imports, not on grounding existing aircraft. Still, uncertainty around future availability may influence purchasing decisions if you are planning to upgrade or expand your drone fleet.

As The Verge reports, the lawsuit highlights growing tension between national security policy and access to consumer technology. For drone users, the result could shape the tools you are able to fly in the years ahead.

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