What the FCC Covered List Means for DJI Drones — and What Comes Next
There's been a lot of discussion recently around the NDAA and the FCC Covered List, particularly as it relates to DJI drones. Many pilots are just trying to understand what's actually changing, what's not, and how this affects their ability to buy and fly drones in the United States. This post is meant to clearly explain the situation and share how we're responding.
What the FCC Covered List Means
The FCC Covered List identifies certain companies whose new communications equipment may no longer receive FCC authorization going forward. Importantly, this is a forward-looking restriction.
The FCC has clarified in its Fact Sheet that these changes do not retroactively apply to devices that were already authorized. Products that received FCC certification prior to the Covered List action may continue to be legally imported, marketed, and sold in the United States.
In practical terms, the FCC Covered List affects future approvals, not drones that were already approved and placed into circulation. It does not make existing drones illegal to fly, nor does it ground equipment already in use.
Are DJI Drones Still Legal to Buy and Fly?
Yes. DJI drones that previously received FCC authorization remain legal to buy, own, and operate in the United States. The FCC has also confirmed that retailers may continue to import, market, and sell device models that were authorized prior to the Covered List action.
For buyers, purchasing from established U.S. sellers remains the most straightforward way to ensure timely delivery and support.
How We're Responding
We’re taking a proactive, compliance-first approach. We'll continue providing world class support for all pilots while continuing to offer the most advanced FCC certified drones out there.
In parallel, we're actively forming partnerships with other drone manufacturers and expanding our lineup to ensure we continue offering the best drones that can be legally sourced and flown in the United States as the market evolves.
One day, we'd love to build our own drone platform. This is a serious undertaking that would require significant investment, engineering talent, and research and development. If you're interested in being involved in that future in any way, we'd love to hear from you.
Short Summary
DJI drones that've already received FCC certification remain legal to purchase, own, and operate in the United States. The FCC Covered List primarily affects future approvals, not existing, compliant products. US Drone Supply remains committed to compliance, transparency, and offering the best drones that can be sourced and flown in the U.S.