U.S. House Votes to Ban New DJI Drones, Citing Security Concerns

On September 9, 2024, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill aimed at restricting the operation of new drones from DJI, a prominent Chinese manufacturer, within the United States. This legislation is part of a broader series of measures targeting Chinese technology companies due to national security concerns.

The bill, which still requires Senate approval to become law, proposes adding DJI to the Federal Communications Commission's Covered List. This action would effectively prohibit the company's new products from utilizing U.S. communications infrastructure. It's important to note that the bill does not affect existing DJI drones already in operation across the country.

DJI, founded in 2006 by Frank Wang in Shenzhen, China, has become the world's largest consumer drone manufacturer. The company currently holds more than half of the U.S. drone market share, highlighting its significant presence in the industry. Since the release of its first drone, the Phantom, in 2013, DJI has expanded its product line to include popular series like the Mavic, as well as other technology such as handheld gimbals and action cameras.

In response to the proposed legislation, DJI expressed strong opposition, stating that the bill "restricts the ability of U.S. drone operators to buy and use the right equipment for their work, solely on the basis of the equipment's country of origin." The company argues that this approach undermines American interests and could potentially harm the very industry that Congress aims to support.

This legislative action is not the first time DJI has faced scrutiny from U.S. authorities. In 2020, the U.S. Department of Commerce added the company to its Entity List, reflecting ongoing concerns about data security. Despite these challenges, DJI drones continue to be widely used across various sectors, including filmmaking, agriculture, and search and rescue operations.

The company has implemented several measures to address security concerns, including geofencing technology to prevent drones from flying in restricted areas and enhanced data security protocols. However, these efforts have not fully alleviated the apprehensions of U.S. lawmakers.

As the bill moves to the Senate for consideration, its potential impact on the U.S. drone industry and operators remains a topic of debate. The outcome of this legislation could significantly influence the future landscape of drone technology and usage in the United States, potentially opening opportunities for competitors like Parrot and Skydio to gain market share.

"restricts the ability of U.S. drone operators to buy and use the right equipment for their work, solely on the basis of the equipment's country of origin, undermines American interests and will hurt the very industry Congress is trying to support."

The ongoing discussion surrounding DJI and other Chinese technology companies reflects the complex interplay between national security concerns, technological advancement, and international trade relations. As the situation develops, it will be crucial to monitor how these factors shape the future of the drone industry in the United States and globally.