Why Chinese Drone Maker DJI Is Suing the FCC

Despite their low cost, the company’s models are considered by pilots to be among the best on the market.

Jack Daleo

Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

DJI in November unveiled its Agras T100, T70P, and T25P drone models for agricultural operators. [Credit: DJI]

Key Takeaways:

China's DJI is suing the U.S. FCC over its decision to add the drone manufacturer to a "Covered List," effectively banning the sale and import of its drones and components in the U.S.
The FCC's ban, based on national security concerns, is contested by DJI as procedurally flawed, unconstitutional, and driven by economic protectionism rather than legitimate security threats.
The ban severely impacts a vast majority of U.S. drone users, including public safety and various industries, who rely on DJI's high-quality and cost-effective products, with many facing potential business closure due to a lack of comparable domestic alternatives.

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China’s DJI—the global titan of the consumer drone industry—is suing the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) over the agency’s decision to throttle its American business.

DJI last week filed a petition for review in the U.S. Ninth Circuit court, contesting the FCC’s move to add foreign drone manufacturers to its Covered List—a federal blacklist that effectively bans the sale or import of the company’s drones and components—for national security reasons.