In December 2025, the Federal Communications Commission added all foreign-made drones to something known as the “Covered List,” which prevents companies from bringing new products to market in the United States. Now, the FCC has gone even further and has proposed bans on future imports of several drones that are already on the U.S. market. The FCC says these restrictions target “military-grade” drones, but they impact any drones with thermal imaging capabilities, LiDAR sensing, agricultural spray drones, and others that are widely used across America today by hobbyists, small businesses, farmers, and public safety agencies.
If you rely on these tools and the advanced capabilities they offer, then we need you to tell the FCC NOT TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THESE RESTRICTIONS.
This is a TOTAL REVERSAL from the FCC who previously stated that approved devices would continue to be marketed and sold and that firmware and software updates could continue normally.
That’s right: the very same drones in use today would no longer be available for purchase and you would not even be able to buy replacement parts for repairs going forward, locking Americans out from these life-saving tools, breakthrough agricultural technologies, and cutting-edge inspection platforms. Meanwhile, other countries across the globe – including our neighbors Canada and Mexico – will continue to have access to these products alongside the latest and greatest technology, putting us at a disadvantage.
The good news is that drone users now have an opportunity to share concerns directly with FCC decision-makers. From now until September 2, they are seeking comments through a formal process, which is a perfect opportunity for drone users to share how restrictions will impact our safety operations, our businesses, and our communities.
It is also important to note that you don’t have to be a drone expert to submit a comment to the FCC. You simply need to be able to share your story with drones. Sharing why you use the drones you use and how you, your family, your business, public safety, etc. will be impacted by the FCC’s decision is an easy way to get your point across. The FCC has also asked specific questions for commenters to address, such as whether impacted drones should be considered “military grade” and how you would be impacted financially by these restrictions.
More information about questions that comments can address can be found at the bottom of this page, along with directions for submission as well as some talking points on issues you may want to focus on. But at the end of the day, this is ultimately about you. Your story with drones, your opinions, your responses to the FCC’s questions, and how their actions impact you.
If you think it is unfair that the FCC can flip-flop like this and put your businesses at risk, then we need your voice now!
