Nation-Wide DJI Drone Ban Could Become a Reality on June 12th

The commercial drone industry is facing a potential hurdle with the "Countering CCP Drones Act" (HR 2864) currently under consideration by the US Senate. This bill, if passed on June 12, could significantly impact your ability to access and operate DJI drones.

This bill echoes the ongoing debate surrounding the ban of DJI Drones. We have seen similar attempts in Connecticut by public agencies to ban DJI drones that failed to pass. Those opposing the ban, including first responder organizations, argue that there's little evidence to support data security claims against DJI and that the benefits of these drones outweigh the perceived risks. DJI itself has taken steps to address security concerns, launching a DJI Trust Center to educate users on data privacy controls and security measures implemented in their products.

What the US Senate Bill Proposes

The legislation aims to:

• Ban new DJI products from entering the US market. This means you wouldn't be able to purchase new DJI drones for your business operations.
• Potentially revoke existing FCC approvals for DJI drones. This scenario could even ground the DJI drones you currently own and rely on for your business.

Potential Consequences for Commercial Drone Users

The potential consequences of this bill are significant:

• Disrupted Operations: A ban on new DJI products would limit your access to the latest drone technology, potentially hindering your ability to keep pace with advancements in the industry.
• Grounded Fleet: The possibility of revoked FCC approvals for existing DJI drones could lead to a significant disruption in your business operations. Imagine being unable to use your current drones for deliveries, inspections, data collection, or other critical tasks.
• Increased Costs: The grounding of your existing DJI fleet could necessitate the purchase of new drones from alternative manufacturers. This could lead to unforeseen expenses and potentially force you to adapt to unfamiliar technologies.

Why is This Happening?

The push for the ban seems to be driven by concerns about data security and potential ties between DJI and the Chinese government. However, DJI maintains that these concerns are based on misinformation and fear-mongering. The company advocates for establishing technology-based security standards that apply to all drone manufacturers, regardless of origin.

What You Can Do

With the Senate committee considering the bill on June 12th, time is of the essence. Here's how you can take action:

• Contact Your Senators: Make your voice heard! The Drone Advocacy Alliance can help you find contact information for your Senators. Explain how this bill would negatively impact your business and its ability to serve your customers.
• Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on the latest developments regarding the bill. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the curve on all things drone-related.