US Drone Rules 2026: What’s Banned, What’s Still Sellable, What to Buy

The FCC has expanded its Covered List to bar the sale of all foreign-made drones and DJI cameras that aren’t FCC-certified, revoking approvals for several DJI clones and LiDAR-equipped devices. Drones and cameras already approved remain legal to sell and fly under FAA rules, but future models may be removed from the US market. For buyers, older DJI models and non-LiDAR drones that are already approved remain safer options; beginner picks include the DJI Flip or Potensic Atom 2, while experts might consider the DJI Mavic 4 Pro. The 249-gram threshold affects FAA registration, and importing unapproved drones can create compliance issues. There are a few US-made options for professional use, but consumer drones are largely still imported; parts for currently approved devices should continue to be available. The situation is evolving with ongoing litigation from DJI and anticipated further regulatory moves, including potential effects on Hasselblad equipment and model aircraft.