DJI sues the FCC for “carelessly” restricting its drones

DJI, the leading manufacturer of consumer drones, has initiated a lawsuit targeting the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) following its import ban on new foreign-made drones, effective since December 23, 2025. The Shenzhen-based company filed a petition with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit on Tuesday, aiming to reverse the FCC's classification of DJI on its Covered List. The FCC's Covered List identifies communications equipment and services considered to pose an unacceptable risk to U.S. national security and the safety of its citizens. In its petition submitted on February 20, 2026, DJI argues that the FCC overstepped its legal authority, disregarded necessary procedural protocols, and violated the Fifth Amendment by adding its products to this restrictive list. The company is seeking the Court's intervention to overturn the ruling, asserting that the decision is unlawful and requesting appropriate relief. Earlier this year, the FCC granted exemptions for a limited selection of foreign-made drones from Europe and some critical components from companies like Sony, Panasonic, and Samsung. However, no exemptions have been made for drones or parts produced in China. In a statement released on December 22, the FCC expressed concerns that drones could be exploited by criminals and foreign adversaries, leading to serious threats against U.S. interests. The Commission's decision followed a review by an interagency body with national security expertise, convened by the White House. DJI has reportedly sought audits of its devices from the U.S. government multiple times before the import ban was imposed. In a statement shared with Bloomberg, the company expressed frustration, stating that it had not been given an opportunity to address or counter any concerns raised by the government. DJI criticized the FCC's decision as a careless restriction on its business operations in the U.S., which limits American consumers' access to the latest drone technology.