For drone pilots across the United States, recent regulatory changes have been a point of concern. However, recent updates about the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) have provided some much-needed clarity. While the threat of an immediate drone ban has receded, this new legislation still introduces certain measures that could affect the future of drone technology.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s been included in the final NDAA bill and what drone pilots need to know moving forward.

What’s in the Bill: Key Details

Though the immediate threat of a drone ban is gone for now, the bill does call for an analysis of the national security threat posed by Chinese-made drones. Section 1709 of the NDAA requires a security assessment to be completed within one year of the law’s enactment. This analysis will focus on equipment from companies like DJI and Autel and will be conducted by a relevant national security agency.

This means that for the next 12 months, there’s no immediate risk of drone bans, and drone pilots can continue to purchase and operate current models and new releases without worry. However, there’s still a degree of uncertainty regarding what might happen once the analysis is completed in December 2025 or early 2026. If the analysis deems these drones to be a national security threat, they could be added to the FCC’s covered list, restricting the sale of any unlicensed new models in the U.S.

What Does This Mean for Drone Pilots?

For now, drone pilots can breathe easy. There’s no need to worry about bans or restrictions over the next 12 months. If you’re looking to buy a new drone in 2024 or 2025, you’re safe. However, it’s important to remain aware of the evolving situation. If the national security assessment concludes negatively, new drones from Chinese manufacturers could face restrictions beyond 2025, especially if they haven’t been properly licensed by the FCC.

Supply Chain Issues and Delays

While the regulatory landscape may be shifting, there are still practical concerns for drone pilots, particularly when it comes to product availability. Supply chain challenges, particularly with customs and importation from China, continue to create delays in inventory. Many drone dealers are experiencing backlogs, with typical order fulfillment times now taking two to three weeks. However, efforts are underway to improve inventory management, and larger shipments of drones are expected to arrive in mid-December.

These challenges are separate from any potential drone bans, but they do highlight the ongoing logistical hurdles in the drone market.

The Bigger Picture: Advocacy and the Future of Drone Regulations

The absence of an immediate drone ban in the NDAA is a win for the drone community, and this victory is largely due to the efforts of advocacy groups, such as Drone Advocacy Alliance, who rallied public support. Drone pilots and enthusiasts who contacted lawmakers, shared their concerns, and voiced their opinions have made a significant impact on the outcome.

While the battle isn’t over—especially with a potential reassessment in 2025—the NDAA update is a welcome pause in the ongoing fight for fair drone regulations. It’s a reminder of the power of collective action in shaping policy that affects the drone industry.

Final Takeaway: Stay Informed and Be Prepared

As drone pilots, it’s essential to stay informed and adaptable as the regulatory landscape continues to evolve. While the threat of an immediate drone ban has been averted for now, there’s still the possibility of new restrictions in the future. Continue to engage with advocacy efforts, and keep an eye on developments to ensure you’re ready for whatever comes next. The next 12 months offer a crucial window to prepare for what lies ahead.

Embrace these strategies, and see your drone business reach new heights. 😉 T

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Written by: Tony Marino, MBA – FAA Certified Part 107 Commercial Drone Pilot and Chief Business Strategist at Aerial Northwest

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.

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