US Drone Ban Explained: What You Can and Can't Buy in 2026

Key Points:

• The FCC has added all foreign drones and DJI handheld camera gear to its Covered List, banning their sale in the US, with new DJI products like the HoverAir Aqua and Osmo Pocket 4P unavailable domestically due to this decision.
• DJI is suing the FCC to overturn the ban, alleging due process violations, while the FCC is also moving to revoke authorization for DJI clone brands and LiDAR-equipped drones previously allowed in the US.
• The ban applies to future models without FCC certification, affecting major consumer drone brands such as DJI, Antigravity, Holy Stone, and Potensic; however, previously authorized drones and cameras remain usable and parts are still available.
• The FCC Covered List now includes DJI’s entire product line, including cameras and gimbals, restricting new releases like Osmo Pocket 4 and 4P from US sales, while older models remain unaffected for now.
• The FAA regulates drone flight rules, but the FCC controls device approval; ongoing FCC actions may impact FAA registration and legality of certain drones, especially those with LiDAR or advanced features, with final decisions expected after public comment periods in early September.