DJI urges Americans to fight FCC drone ban before 11 May amid warnings it leaves critical industries at “dangerous disadvantage”

With just a few days left before the FCC weighs in on the drone ban based on public feedback, DJI is calling on all customers to speak up. DJI is asking American customers to tell the Federal Communications Commission to reconsider the recent ban on newer drone models in the U.S.

The FCC has given the company a bit of leeway by accepting petitions and public comments on whether to rethink its December 2025 ban decision. If the scales don’t tip in DJI’s favor, the Chinese drone and accessory company will be added to the FCC’s “Covered List.” This would effectively bar the company from obtaining approval for new drone products and from selling them in the U.S. due to national security concerns about potential Chinese government espionage.

DJI, an independent private company not tied to the Chinese government, has raised its voice, arguing that the FCC’s restrictions on new drone imports are unfair, lack concrete evidence, and prevent casual and professional users from accessing the company’s reliable and affordable technology.

A social media-centric appeal 

DJI posted a statement to Facebook on May 6 and has been straightforward with its American customer base and supporters of the technology about what’s at stake. The company stated on Facebook:

“American operators are being left behind. Now is the time to speak up. The FCC is now seeking public input on whether to grant that appeal.”

Reaching out to other outlets, DJI said, “We encourage all U.S.-based drone users, from public safety agencies and small businesses to hobbyists, to share their experiences of how DJI drones impact their work, business, community, and daily life.”

Notably, public support and outrage are now pouring into the FCC’s docket, which underscores how important and embedded DJI drones are in professional operations.

Retired airline pilot and FAA Part 107 license holder Ralph Bendjebar filed a public comment with the FCC and said:

“DJI drones are far and away the most advanced aerial drones for the purposes of aerial photography and videography. Banning the sale of future products will set back the commercial drone industry by leagues and bounds. If the purpose is to ensure they cannot endanger national security, there is a way to do that in cooperation with the company itself, which has volunteered to address any security concerns.”

He further addressed the importance of DJI drones in various critical fields that require prompt action and stated, “The action not only inhibits aerial photography but places law enforcement, fire and rescue, survey crews, railroad and power line inspectors, as well as agricultural businesses, at a dangerous disadvantage.”

How to submit a public comment on the FCC’s website

Users can submit public comments to the FCC opposing the ban on DJI drones and rejecting the company’s inclusion in the Covered List by sending a quick, text-only comment on the FCC’s website. To do this, go to this link and enter Proceeding Number: 26-22. Afterwards, select “In the Matter of SZ DJI Technology Co., Ltd.” Enter your personal comments opposing the ban and submit the application.

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