Policy & Regulation
FAA, FCC, airspace, security, trade policy, enforcement, and government decisions affecting unmanned aviation.
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Section 232 Drone Tariffs Take Effect September 3: 100% Duties Hit Thermal and Heavy-Lift UAS
A new Section 232 proclamation imposes 100% tariffs on imported drones over 25kg or with thermal imaging starting September 3, 2026 — here’s what operators need to know before the deadline.
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Pentagon Preps Directed-Energy ‘Shoot-Off’ as DHS Clears State and Local Police to Take On Drones
JIATF-401 will test high-energy laser and microwave weapons against drones this December, as DHS rolls out new SAFER SKIES Act authority letting local police detect and mitigate UAS threats.
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Drone Accident Reporting: FAA and NTSB Rules Part 107 Pilots Need to Know
Understand FAA and NTSB drone accident reporting rules, including notification triggers, deadlines, damage thresholds, evidence, and practical next steps.
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UK Drone Battery Push Targets U.S. Defense Supply-Chain Rules
UK battery makers are preparing for U.S. defense sourcing rules as drone tariffs increase pressure to document cells, materials and component origins.
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White House Holds First Drone Dominance Summit Ahead of Tariffs
The White House brought roughly 40 drone companies together to discuss U.S. manufacturing, procurement and supply chains ahead of new drone tariffs.
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China Urges U.S. to Withdraw New Section 232 Drone Tariffs
China urged the U.S. to withdraw new Section 232 drone tariffs. See when the duties begin and what commercial operators should review before buying.
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DJI Gets Partial Appeals-Court Win but Remains on Pentagon List
A federal appeals court ordered further review of one basis for DJI’s Pentagon designation, but DJI remains on the Section 1260H list pending review.
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Air Force Seeks DJI Drones for Counter-UAS Training at Missile Base
The Air Force is seeking six DJI drones for counter-UAS training at F.E. Warren AFB, using controlled commercial aircraft as realistic threat targets.
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FAA Proposes $289,215 Gorge Drones Fine Over Part 137
The FAA proposes a $289,215 fine against Gorge Drones. Here’s what agricultural drone operators should verify under Part 137 before their next job.
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Could the FCC Block Sales of Popular DJI Drones? What Pilots Need to Know Before September 2
The FCC is considering restrictions on future sales of certain previously approved foreign-made drones. Here’s what current owners need to know and how to comment before September 2.