FCC Restricts New DJI Drones: What Pilots in the USA Need to Know

The US administration’s decision to implement new restrictions on foreign-made drones represents a change in how DJI hardware enters the American market moving forward. These measures apply to new foreign-made DJI drones and certain critical components coming into the US, rather than existing equipment.

However, and most importantly, this decision does not affect any previously purchased or FCC cleared DJI drones (such as theDJI Mini 2/3/4/5). DJI drone models that have received previous FCC authorization can continue flying, meaning all existing DJI drones in the USA will continue to function normally while connecting to the Spexi mobile app. All DJI models currently in the US market can also continue to be marketed, updated, repaired, and sold.  

We’re continuing business as usual and we thank you for your patience during this period of uncertainty. If you are flying on the LayerDrone Network outside the USA, this announcement does not affect you whatsoever.  

Long-Term Impact

While the network will operate normally, we recognize that restrictions on new hardware and replacement parts may have longer-term implications for USA pilots and the broader drone ecosystem.

We have been preparing for this scenario. Our network was built with long-term resilience in mind. While DJI drones have played an important role in our growth, the protocol is designed to be hardware agnostic and support multiple different hardware platforms.

In parallel with continued support for existing DJI hardware, we are actively evaluating and expanding support for additional drone hardware platforms. We’re focused on ensuring that pilots have viable options in the USA while preserving the capture standards, data quality, and mission consistency that define the LayerDrone network. Expect more details on alternatives in the near future. 

Over the coming weeks, pilots in the USA can expect:

• Additional guidance on what these restrictions mean in the near- and long-term 
• Practical recommendations to help pilots plan ahead without disruption
• Updates on alternative technology under evaluation
• Any developments that could affect network operations

What Comes Next

This is an evolving situation in the USA and we will share additional details once guidance becomes clearer. We’ll continue to communicate transparently with the community as we learn more.  

LayerDrone and Spexi exist because of its pilot community and we’re thankful to you all for your flexibility and commitment to building the world’s largest, autonomous data layer for spatial intelligence. As the ecosystem continues to adapt, LayerDrone remains focused on supporting pilots and intends to move confidently toward its token launch. 

Exciting things are ahead, and we’re looking forward to a new year of growth, opportunity, and keeping our pilots flying. 

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