WASHINGTON – Major Chinese drone manufacturer DJI announced Tuesday it has taken legal action against federal regulators over restrictions that prevent the company from selling new drone models in the United States.
The drone giant filed its challenge in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit, targeting a December decision by the Federal Communications Commission that blocks imports of new drone models and essential parts from DJI and fellow Chinese company Autel.
In a company statement, DJI criticized the federal action, saying “It carelessly restricts DJI’s business in the U.S. and summarily denies U.S. customers access to its latest technology.”
Under the FCC’s December ruling, DJI, Autel, and other international drone manufacturers are prohibited from securing the required federal authorization needed to market new drone models or essential components within American borders. However, the companies may continue selling drone models that were already approved before the restriction took effect.
