Washington, Feb 24 – The leading Chinese drone manufacturer DJI announced on Tuesday that it filed a lawsuit against the decision of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to ban the import of all newly developed drones and key components of its products to the US. DJI filed the case in a US appeals court, challenging the broader restrictions affecting Chinese drone makers including Autel Robotics.
DJI Challenges FCC’s December Decision in Court
In a press release, DJI confirmed it filed a lawsuit in the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit to contest the FCC’s December decision. The company described the move as “carelessly restricting DJI’s business in the U.S. and summarily denying U.S. consumers access to its latest technology.”
The FCC’s decision bans the import of newly developed foreign-made drones and essential components. The measure forms part of broader US efforts to tighten regulations on China-based technology companies over national security concerns.
Scope and Impact of the FCC Ban
Under the ruling, DJI and Autel cannot secure approval to sell new drone models or key components in the United States. However, previously approved drones may continue to be sold.
The ban follows a legislative directive issued in December 2024 requiring DJI and Autel to be placed on a restricted list within one year unless a national security review determines otherwise. The measure marks a significant escalation in Washington’s campaign to limit Chinese drone technology in sensitive sectors.
Response and Legal Representation
The FCC has not issued an official response to the lawsuit. DJI is represented by former FCC enforcement bureau chief Travis LeBlanc and former US Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar.
Previous Legal and Regulatory Developments
In January, the FCC approved a limited exemption allowing the importation of certain new foreign-made drone models and components. Notably, Chinese drones were excluded from this exemption.
DJI has faced prior legal setbacks. In September, a federal judge rejected the company’s request to be removed from the US Department of Defense list of firms allegedly cooperating with China’s military. Despite ongoing regulatory scrutiny, DJI continues to dominate more than half of the US commercial drone market.
In December, Chinese electronics firm Hikvision also filed a lawsuit challenging FCC decisions denying approvals for products using components from companies listed on the agency’s "Covered List."
The Broader Context of the US-China Tech Dispute
DJI’s lawsuit underscores the broader tensions between Washington and Beijing over technology, trade, and national security. US authorities have intensified efforts to restrict Chinese access to critical infrastructure and emerging technologies.
The legal proceedings will test the balance between national security concerns, international trade obligations, and innovation in the fast-evolving drone sector. The outcome could have significant implications for US consumers, global supply chains, and the future of cross-border technology regulation.
