FCC Covered List FAQ

Is DJI Banned? The FCC Covered List and Drones, Explained

What the FCC's December 2025 action means for DJI and other foreign drones, in plain terms, with official sources. Last reviewed October 26, 2026. This is a summary, not legal advice.

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Dec 22, 2025FCC adds foreign-produced UAS to the Covered List

July 21, 2026Most recent FCC update

Keep flyingDrones you own are not affected

Jan 1, 2028Buy American exemption window

Products

NDAA and Blue UAS options at Maverick

Freefly

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ACSL

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Arcsky

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Arcsky

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Vantage Robotics

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Vantage Robotics

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What the listing means

Situation	Status
Drones you already own	Keep flying. Not affected.
Previously FCC-authorized models	Can still be imported, sold and used
New foreign models	Cannot get new FCC authorization unless exempt
Blue UAS Cleared List aircraft	Exempt
Buy American domestic end products	Exempt until January 1, 2028
DoW or DHS conditional approval	Specific models can be approved

Sources: FCC Covered List, FCC UAS FAQ, Reuters, December 23, 2025.

What happened

On December 22, 2025, the FCC added uncrewed aircraft systems and UAS critical components produced in a foreign country to its Covered List. The FCC has updated the listing since, most recently on July 21, 2026. Reuters reported that the action covers foreign drone makers including DJI and Autel.

Need NDAA hardware?

Maverick carries the Freefly Astro Max (NDAA/Blue), which is on the Blue UAS Cleared List per Freefly, and Inspired Flight aircraft. Call 612.808.9838 to talk through your program.

Questions

Frequently asked questions

Is DJI banned in the United States?

Not for existing drones. On December 22, 2025, the FCC added foreign-produced drones and critical components to its Covered List. That blocks new FCC equipment authorizations for new models. It does not ban using drones you already own.

Can I still fly my DJI drone?

Yes. The FCC states the Covered List does not affect the continued use of drones that were lawfully bought or acquired.

Can retailers still sell DJI drones?

The FCC says models that already received FCC authorization can still be imported, marketed and sold. Only new models are blocked from getting authorization.

Are any drones exempt?

Yes. The FCC exempts aircraft on the Blue UAS Cleared List and, until January 1, 2028, drones that qualify as domestic end products under the Buy American standard. Specific models can also get conditional approval from the Department of War or Department of Homeland Security.

Does this affect Autel?

Reuters reported on December 23, 2025 that the action covers foreign drone makers including DJI and Autel.

What are my NDAA options?

Maverick carries the Freefly Astro Max (NDAA/Blue) and other NDAA-compliant aircraft. Call 612.808.9838 to talk through your program.

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