The Chinese drone manufacturer DJI alleges it has been significantly affected by the FCC’s prohibition on new foreign-made drones.
DJI is requesting a federal court to annul the FCC’s ruling that bans the import of its drones and parts made in China, as reported by Reuters. In a petition submitted to an appeals court, DJI argues that the FCC exceeded its legal authority last December when it included foreign-made drones on its Covered List, which prohibits communications equipment considered a national security risk.
The FCC’s decision also prevents DJI and other foreign drone manufacturers from importing new drones into the US without Department of Defense approval, and authorizes the FCC to retroactively ban previously allowed equipment. DJI contends that this decision has greatly harmed its business and accuses the FCC of violating the Fifth Amendment, seeking the court to declare the decision unlawful.
DJI states that the FCC’s decision unjustly limits its US operations and denies American consumers access to its newest technology. DJI did not respond to The Verge’s request for comment.