DJI sent numerous requests to the US government to audit its devices in hopes of avoiding a ban, but the federal ban was ultimately issued based on previously obtained information, The New York Times reported this week.
The news means Americans will miss new drone models from DJI, which will own 70 percent of the global drone market by 2023 and is widely considered the premium drone maker, according to Drone Industry Insights. People can still buy drones from American companies, but American drones have a mediocre reputation compared to drones from DJI and other Chinese companies, such as Autel. American-made drones also have a reputation for being expensive, typically costing significantly more than their Chinese counterparts. DaCoda Bartels, COO of FlyGuys, which helps commercial drone pilots find work, told the Times that American drones are also “half as good.”
There are also concerns among hobbyists that the ban will hinder their ability to purchase drone parts, potentially affecting the repairability of approved drones and DIY projects.
U.S.-based drone companies, meanwhile, are optimistic about capturing sales in an industry where it has historically been difficult to compete with Chinese brands. It's also possible that the ban will only result in a decline in U.S. drone purchases.
In a statement, Michael Robbins, president and CEO of the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), which includes U.S. drone companies such as Skydio, said the ban “will truly unleash U.S. drone dominance” and that the U.S. cannot “risk dependence” on China for drones.
“By prioritizing trusted technology and resilient supply chains, the FCC's action will accelerate innovation, improve system safety, and ensure the U.S. drone industry expands rather than remains under foreign control,” Robbins said.
DJI is understandably “disappointed” by the FCC's decision, the company said in a statement issued Monday, adding:
Although DJI was not singled out, no information has been released about what information was used by the executive branch to reach its decision. Concerns about DJI's data security are not based on evidence and instead reflect protectionism, contrary to the principles of an open market.
