DJI is urging people across the United States to act quickly as a key deadline approaches in a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) process that could shape the future of DJI drones in America. With public feedback being considered before May 11, the company is asking customers, hobbyists, small businesses, and public safety agencies to share real-world experiences and push back against restrictions that could prevent new DJI drone models from being approved or sold in the U.S.
At the center of the dispute is an FCC decision tied to national security concerns. If the FCC ultimately upholds the December 2025 restrictions, DJI could be added to the agency’s “Covered List.” For consumers, that would likely mean a major change in availability: DJI would face serious barriers to getting authorization for new drone products, effectively blocking future DJI drone launches and limiting sales of upcoming models in the American market.
DJI argues the restrictions are unfair and not supported by clear evidence. The company also emphasizes that it is an independent, privately run business and says it is not controlled by the Chinese government. DJI’s position is that restricting new drone imports and approvals doesn’t just impact the company—it impacts the people and organizations that rely on its drones for dependable performance at accessible prices.
To rally support, DJI has leaned heavily on a direct, social-media-driven appeal to its U.S. users. In a message posted May 6, DJI warned that “American operators are being left behind” and encouraged users to speak up while the FCC is still accepting public input. The company has also asked drone users to explain how DJI drones affect their work, business operations, communities, and everyday life—especially in situations where speed, safety, and reliable equipment matter.
That call appears to be resonating. Public responses have been flowing into the FCC’s docket, showing just how widely DJI drones are used in professional environments, not only for photography and videography, but also across industries that depend on aerial data and rapid deployment.
One commenter, retired airline pilot and FAA Part 107 license holder Ralph Bendjebar, argued that DJI drones lead the market for aerial imaging and warned that blocking future product sales could significantly slow progress across the commercial drone industry. He also suggested there are alternatives to an outright restriction, saying security concerns could be addressed through cooperation with the company. Bendjebar further highlighted the potential impact on critical services and industries, including law enforcement, fire and rescue teams, survey crews, infrastructure inspectors, and agriculture—fields where drone capability can directly affect response times and operational safety.
People who want to submit a public comment to the FCC can do so by filing a text-only statement through the FCC’s comment system. Use Proceeding Number 26-22 and select “In the Matter of SZ DJI Technology Co., Ltd.” Then write your comment opposing the ban and the company’s inclusion on the Covered List, and submit it before the deadline.
