Real-world applications of drone waypoint technology

November 24, 2025 / editor

Here are ten practical, real-world applications of drone waypoint technology — situations where pre-programmed, automated flight paths offer major advantages:

1. Mapping, Surveying & GIS

Waypoints allow drones to fly precise grid or corridor patterns, creating consistent overlap for:

Topographic mapping
3D modeling / photogrammetry
Construction site progress scans
Boundary and utility surveys
Agricultural field mapping

Waypoint automation improves accuracy, repeatability, and coverage efficiency.

2. Agriculture & Crop Management

Waypoint missions support:

Automated spraying and fertilizing
Plant-health analytics (NDVI, multispectral imaging)
Orchard/tree-count surveys
Irrigation performance checks

Farmers use waypoints to repeat the exact same flight every week for growth comparison and yield prediction.

3. Infrastructure Inspection

Drones follow waypoints to safely inspect:

Power lines & substations
Pipelines
Solar farms
Wind turbines (orbit waypoints for blade inspection)
Railways and roadways
Bridges and dams

Repeatable routes ensure consistent inspection angles and reduce risk to human inspectors.

4. Public Safety & Emergency Response

Waypoint routes speed up time-critical operations:

Search-and-rescue grid missions
Pre-planned wildfire perimeter patrols
Automated evacuation-route monitoring
Hazardous-material or radiation zone scans
Nighttime patrols with thermal cameras

Agencies benefit from hands-free, consistent coverage during emergencies.

5. Delivery & Logistics

Waypoint technology enables:

BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) delivery routes
Medical sample and supply transport
Warehouse perimeter scanning or stockyard inspections
Industrial campus supply shuttles

Many delivery corridors are simply protected waypoint routes with geofencing.

6. Real Estate, Media & Cinematography

For repeatable cinematography:

Automated “dolly” or “orbit” shots
Identical fly-throughs for construction progress videos
Precise path replication across multiple takes

Waypoints cut down on pilot error and ensure smooth, cinematic footage.

7. Environmental Monitoring

Scientists rely on waypoint missions for:

Wildlife population tracking
Deforestation monitoring
Beach erosion and coastline mapping
Glacier/ice shelf measurement
Air quality and methane detection

Environmental missions often require long-term, repeatable data points.

8. Security & Surveillance

Private facilities and public agencies use waypoint drones for:

Fence-line patrols
Parking-lot or campus security sweeps
Intrusion-response flights
Nighttime thermal patrols

UAVs can follow a scheduled patrol route without an operator constantly at the controls.

9. Disaster Assessment & Insurance

Insurance adjusters and emergency teams use waypoints to:

Rapidly scan damaged neighborhoods
Document pre- vs. post-disaster conditions
Create repeatable before/after elevation maps
Maintain evidence-quality flight paths

Automation helps ensure consistent documentation across claims.

10. Education and Research

Waypoint flights are used for:

Robotics and autonomy training
STEM curriculum (path planning, geospatial science)
AI navigation research
University environmental studies

Educators value waypoints for safe, controlled missions for students.

Ways fire departments can use drones.

October 1, 2025October 6, 2025 / editor

Drones have become a transformative tool for modern fire departments, offering capabilities that enhance firefighter safety, improve situational awareness, and increase operational efficiency. Equipped with specialized sensors, these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) provide a critical aerial perspective that is often impossible to achieve from the ground.

Here is a comprehensive description of how fire departments use drones:

1. Situational Awareness and Incident Command

Drones are often the first asset deployed to a scene, arriving faster than ground crews. This provides Incident Commanders (ICs) with immediate, real-time aerial intelligence.

Initial Size-Up: A drone can give a bird’s-eye view of a fire, allowing the IC to assess the size, location, and spread of the blaze before firefighters even arrive. This helps in making faster, more informed decisions about resource allocation and initial strategies.
Live Monitoring: Throughout an incident, drones provide a constant, live video feed of the scene. This allows the command center to monitor fire behavior, track the movement of fire crews, and identify potential dangers like collapsing structures or rapid fire spread.

2. Thermal Imaging for Search & Rescue

One of the most valuable payloads on a firefighting drone is a thermal camera (also known as an infrared or IR camera).

Locating Hotspots: Thermal cameras can see through dense smoke and darkness to pinpoint the hottest parts of a fire, guiding crews to the source and helping to prevent re-ignition after the fire is out.
Search and Rescue: In low-visibility conditions, a drone’s thermal camera can detect the body heat of trapped victims, allowing firefighters to locate and rescue individuals more quickly and safely, whether they are in a smoke-filled building, lost in a wildfire, or trapped in a collapsed structure.

3. Hazard and Risk Assessment

Drones reduce the need for firefighters to enter unknown and potentially hazardous environments.

Structural Integrity: Drones can inspect the roof and exterior of a building for structural weaknesses, preventing crews from entering an unstable or collapsing structure.
Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT): For chemical spills or gas leaks, drones can be equipped with sensors to remotely identify and monitor dangerous substances, keeping the HAZMAT team at a safe distance.
Wildfire Mapping: In large-scale wildfires, drones can map the perimeter, track wind direction, and predict the fire’s spread, helping to guide containment efforts and establish firebreaks.

4. Post-Incident Analysis and Documentation

The role of a drone doesn’t end when the fire is out.

Cause and Origin Investigation: Drones can provide high-resolution photos and 3D models of the scene for post-fire investigations, documenting the full extent of the damage for insurance and legal purposes.
Training: Footage from real incidents can be used for training new recruits, allowing them to study fire behavior and tactical responses from a safe, elevated perspective.

5. Other Applications

Public Announcements: Drones equipped with loudspeakers can be used to issue evacuation orders or relay instructions to the public and fire crews in a chaotic environment.
Communication Relay: Drones can serve as temporary communication relays in areas where traditional radio signals are blocked or damaged.
Pre-Fire Planning: Drones can be used to create detailed maps of high-risk areas, such as industrial complexes or heavily vegetated areas, to aid in future emergency planning.

Fire departments use a range of drones, from small, portable models like the DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise for rapid deployment to larger, more robust platforms like the DJI Matrice series that can carry multiple sensors and withstand harsh weather conditions. The integration of this technology provides a vital layer of safety and efficiency, making drones an essential tool in modern firefighting.

An Evaluation of Alternatives to DJI Drones in the United States

September 17, 2025September 17, 2025 / editor

Executive Summary

This research paper provides a comprehensive evaluation of alternatives to DJI drones in the United States, segmenting the analysis by key industry applications. The dominance of DJI in the commercial and prosumer drone market is well-established, largely due to its accessible technology, integrated ecosystem, and aggressive pricing. However, a combination of geopolitical factors, security concerns (particularly with the National Defense Authorization Act, or NDAA), and the need for specialized, mission-specific platforms has spurred the growth of a viable and diverse competitive landscape.

This report demonstrates that while no single competitor has achieved DJI’s level of market penetration and ecosystem integration, several manufacturers offer superior solutions in specific, high-value segments. American and allied-nation companies are increasingly prioritizing NDAA compliance, ruggedness, data security, and heavy-lift capabilities, positioning them as strong alternatives for government, public safety, and enterprise clients.

The key findings by segment are as follows:

Public Safety & Government: This is the most competitive and mature non-DJI market segment, driven by NDAA and Blue sUAS compliance requirements. U.S.-based companies like Skydio, BRINC Drones, and Inspired Flight, along with international allies like Parrot (France) and ACSL (Japan), are leading this sector with purpose-built, secure platforms.
Mapping & Surveying: While DJI offers strong entry-level solutions, enterprise-grade mapping requires greater payload flexibility, longer flight times, and higher-precision RTK/PPK systems. American and European companies like AgEagle, Wingtra, and Inspired Flight are prominent, offering fixed-wing and hybrid VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) drones for large-scale operations.³
Cinematography & Heavy Lift: The need to carry professional-grade cinema cameras has created a niche for heavy-lift platforms. Freefly Systems stands out in this segment, offering customizable, open-architecture drones that can carry payloads far exceeding DJI’s commercial offerings.
Real Estate & Prosumer: This consumer and small business market is where DJI’s dominance is most pronounced. However, manufacturers like Autel and Potensic offer compelling alternatives with similar features and competitive pricing, providing a choice for those prioritizing an alternative to the DJI ecosystem.
Agriculture: While DJI’s Agras series has a strong presence, other players are emerging. Companies like XAG are global leaders in precision spraying, and manufacturers like AgEagle offer long-endurance, fixed-wing platforms for large-scale crop monitoring.

1. Public Safety, Security, and Government

This segment is the most active battleground for DJI alternatives, primarily due to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and the Department of Defense’s Blue sUAS program, which prohibit the use of drones from specific foreign adversaries.

Alternative	Key Features	Target Use Case	Price (Approximate)
Skydio X10/X10D	AI-driven autonomous navigation, advanced obstacle avoidance, U.S. manufacturing, Blue sUAS approved.	Search and rescue, automated inspections, situational awareness for first responders.	Custom quotes, often in the tens of thousands of dollars.
BRINC Lemur 2	Purpose-built for indoor and tactical use. Rugged, armored, capable of glass-breaking and two-way audio. NDAA compliant.	SWAT, hostage situations, active shooter response, hazmat inspections.	$10,000+
Parrot Anafi USA	Compact, high-zoom (32x), and thermal capabilities. NDAA compliant, assembled in Massachusetts.	First responders, infrastructure inspections, and reconnaissance.	$7,000 – $10,000
Inspired Flight IF1200A	Heavy-lift, modular U.S.-made platform. Supports advanced payloads like LiDAR. Blue sUAS listed.	High-resolution aerial data capture for large-scale industrial or governmental applications.	$25,000+
Autel EVO Max 4T	Advanced AI tracking, thermal and zoom cameras, anti-jamming capabilities. Not NDAA compliant but a strong commercial option.	Police, firefighting, and surveillance where NDAA is not a requirement.	Custom quotes, packages start around $9,000.

Comparative Analysis: For public safety and government clients, the choice is less about a direct feature-for-feature comparison with DJI and more about compliance and mission-specific capabilities. Skydio excels in autonomous flight in complex environments, while BRINC Drones has cornered the tactical, indoor market. The Inspired Flight series and Freefly’s Alta X are go-to platforms for departments needing to carry specialized, high-cost sensors.

2. Mapping, Surveying, and Construction

The mapping and surveying sector demands high-precision data capture, repeatable flight paths, and efficient coverage of large areas. While some DJI models are used, dedicated mapping platforms from other manufacturers often offer superior performance.

Alternative	Key Features	Target Use Case	Price (Approximate)
WingtraOne Gen II	High-precision VTOL (vertical takeoff and landing) fixed-wing drone. Long flight times (up to 59 min) for large-area coverage.	Large-scale surveys, mining, construction site mapping.	$30,000+ (often sold in a complete solution package)
AgEagle eBee X	Fixed-wing design for long endurance (up to 90 min). PPK/RTK support for survey-grade accuracy. NDAA compliant.	Agricultural mapping, large-scale land surveys, and environmental monitoring.	$15,000+
Inspired Flight IF800	Medium-lift, U.S.-made multirotor. Known for stability and ability to carry high-resolution photogrammetry and LiDAR payloads.	Infrastructure inspection and mapping where a multirotor is preferred over fixed-wing.	Custom quotes, starting around $20,000.
Freefly Astro	Open-source (PX4) platform with a focus on payload flexibility and customization. Supports high-end mapping cameras.	Advanced users and developers who need a highly customizable, reliable mapping platform.	The base kit starts at $15,000.

Comparative Analysis: The critical differentiator in this segment is efficiency and accuracy over vast areas. Fixed-wing drones like the WingtraOne and AgEagle eBee X are unmatched for large-scale operations, covering hundreds of acres in a single flight. While more expensive, they offer a significant return on investment compared to multirotors. For higher-accuracy, multi-sensor missions, heavy-lift platforms from Inspired Flight and Freefly are the preferred choice.

3. Cinematography and High-End Imaging

Professional aerial cinematographers and photographers require drones that can carry heavy, high-quality cameras and offer precise, repeatable flight paths.

Alternative	Key Features	Target Use Case	Price (Approximate)
Freefly Alta X	Heavy-lift platform (up to 35 lbs payload). Open architecture, designed for professional cinema cameras (e.g., RED, ARRI).	Hollywood productions, high-end commercial shoots, and specialized cinematic projects.	$20,000+ (base kit)
Sony Airpeak S1	Designed to integrate seamlessly with Sony’s Alpha full-frame mirrorless cameras. Advanced obstacle detection.	Documentary filmmaking, wildlife photography, and cinematic capture.	$9,000+ (body only)
Autel EVO II Pro	1-inch CMOS sensor, 6K video, and adjustable aperture, making it a strong competitor to DJI’s prosumer line.	Independent filmmakers, real estate videographers, and prosumer cinematographers.	$1,500 – $2,000

Comparative Analysis: In high-end cinematography, DJI’s smaller, consumer-grade drones are not sufficient. The Freefly Alta X is the industry standard for professional heavy-lift, offering the power and payload capacity to fly cinema-grade cameras. The Sony Airpeak S1 is a tailored solution for cinematographers already within the Sony ecosystem.

4. Real Estate Marketing & Prosumer

This segment is defined by ease of use, portability, and image quality for general-purpose aerial photography and videography.

Alternative	Key Features	Target Use Case	Price (Approximate)
Autel EVO Lite+	1-inch CMOS sensor, adjustable aperture, and a foldable design similar to DJI’s Mavic series.	Real estate agents, travel bloggers, and hobbyists seeking high-quality photos and video.	$1,200 – $1,500
Potensic Atom	Sub-250g weight, 4K video, and a 3-axis gimbal. A direct competitor to the DJI Mini series.	Entry-level pilots and hobbyists who want a lightweight, portable drone without the need for registration.	$350 – $500
HoverAir X1	Ultra-lightweight, fully autonomous selfie drone. Rotors are enclosed for safety.	Social media content creators, hands-free videography.	$400 – $500

Comparative Analysis: While DJI still dominates this space with its Mini and Air series, Autel and Potensic provide strong, accessible alternatives. The Autel EVO Lite+ is a formidable competitor to the DJI Air series, offering comparable camera specs. The Potensic Atom directly challenges the sub-250g market, providing a budget-friendly option with solid performance.

5. Agriculture, Wildlife, and Forestry

These sectors require specialized payloads (e.g., multispectral cameras, thermal sensors) and the ability to cover vast, often remote, areas.

Alternative	Key Features	Target Use Case	Price (Approximate)
XAG P100 Pro	A global leader in agricultural drones, specializing in precision spraying and seeding.	Large-scale farm automation, crop dusting, and monitoring.	Varies by package, can be in the tens of thousands.
Quantum Systems Trinity Pro	VTOL fixed-wing drone with a 90+ minute flight time. Supports multi-sensor payloads for a range of data capture needs.	Large-area crop health analysis, forestry management, and wildlife tracking.	Custom quotes, packages start around $20,000.
Parrot Anafi USA	Its quiet operation and high-zoom/thermal capabilities are ideal for wildlife monitoring without disturbing animals.	Wildlife conservation, anti-poaching, and forestry surveys.	$7,000 – $10,000
Autel EVO II Dual 640T	Combines an 8K visual camera with a high-resolution thermal sensor. Foldable and portable.	Wildlife monitoring, search and rescue in remote areas, and forestry inspections.	$3,500 – $5,000

Comparative Analysis: The choice in this segment is driven by the specific task. For large-scale precision agriculture, XAG is a specialized solution. For monitoring vast forests or wildlife reserves, the long flight times of fixed-wing VTOL drones like the Quantum Systems Trinity Pro are essential. The Autel EVO II Dual offers a more portable, dual-sensor solution, making it versatile for a variety of field-based applications.

Watch the video overview

Footnotes

UAV Coach. “DJI Alternatives: An In-Depth Guide [New for 2025]”. UAV Coach, 15 September 2025.
SPH Engineering. “Exploring Alternatives to DJI Enterprise Drones”. SPH Engineering, 12 May 2025.
U.S. Department of Defense. “Blue UAS Cleared Drone List”. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU).
Fortune Business Insights. “Commercial Drone Market Size, Share | Global Forecast [2032]”. Fortune Business Insights, 1 September 2025.
Straits Research. “Commercial Drone Market Size, Share & Growth Chart by 2033”. Straits Research, 2025.
P1 Drones. “Drones: Skydio vs DJI – American Ingenuity vs International Excellence”. P1 Drones, 4 October 2023.
DC Rainmaker. “Skydio 2 vs Mavic 3: Obstacle Avoidance Testing Video”. DC Rainmaker, 16 November 2021.
Jack & Bean. “The 4 Best Drones For Real Estate Photography In 2024”. Jack & Bean, 30 June 2025.
Quora. “Can you explain the differences between Autel and DJI drones?”. Quora, 26 May 2025.
DroneXperts. “Everything you need to know about the Wingtra GEN II VTOL”. DroneXperts, 5 August 2025.
American Cinematographer. “Drone Cinematography: The Sky’s No Limit”. American Cinematographer, 9 March 2025.

Robotics Companies I’m watching.

September 16, 2025September 16, 2025 / editor

While the publicly traded robotics market is not as extensive as other sectors, several companies are known for their significant contributions to the field. Many of these aren’t “startups,” but established companies with divisions focused on robotics and automation.

Robotics vs. Unmanned

Because friends ask me, here’s the difference between Robotics and Unmanned. “Robotics” refers to the broad field of designing, building, and operating robots, while “unmanned” describes systems, like robots or drones, that operate without a human pilot or driver onboard, instead using remote control or onboard artificial intelligence for guidance and operation. In essence, robotics is the discipline, and unmanned is a functional characteristic that applies to many devices, including robots, that don’t have a human operator present.

Definition: A scientific and engineering field focused on creating machines, or robots, that can perform tasks to substitute or mimic human actions.
Scope: Includes designing, building, and programming various types of robots, such as industrial robots, service robots, and mobile robots.
Function: Robots are electro-mechanical machines controlled by computer programs or circuitry to perform specific, often repetitive, tasks with efficiency and precision.

Robotics and Automation Companies

Intuitive Surgical (ISRG): A pioneer in robotic-assisted surgery, the company’s da Vinci Surgical System is widely used by surgeons for minimally invasive procedures.
Teradyne (TER): This company manufactures automated test systems and robotics products. Its robotics segment includes Universal Robots, a leader in collaborative robots (“cobots”) that can work safely alongside people.
UiPath (PATH): UiPath is a leader in robotic process automation (RPA) software. Its platform uses AI to help businesses automate repetitive tasks.
Zebra Technologies (ZBRA): Known for its enterprise asset intelligence solutions, Zebra offers a range of software and hardware products, including autonomous mobile robots used in logistics and supply chain operations.
Serve Robotics (SERV): This company focuses on developing and operating low-emission robots for food delivery in public spaces.
ABB (ABBNY): A large industrial conglomerate, ABB has one of the world’s largest industrial robotics businesses, creating robotic arms and controllers for various manufacturing tasks.

Top Ten 2026 Trends for Drones & Unmanned Aerial Systems

September 7, 2025 / editor

As 2026 approaches, the United States is on the cusp of a significant transformation in the use of drones and unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Propelled by regulatory advancements, technological maturation, and growing acceptance across industries, the coming year is poised to unlock new capabilities and widespread adoption. Here are the top ten trends shaping the drone landscape in the U.S. for 2026, based on current projections and expert analysis.

1. Mainstreaming of Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Operations

A pivotal development anticipated by 2026 is the widespread implementation of Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is expected to finalize its Part 108 regulations, creating a standardized framework for routine BVLOS flights. This will be a game-changer, moving away from the current case-by-case waiver system and enabling more complex and scalable drone applications, such as long-distance inspections of pipelines and power lines, and expanded delivery services.

2. The Rise of “Drone-as-a-Service” (DaaS)

The Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS) model is projected to see substantial growth. This business model allows companies to outsource their drone needs—including equipment, pilots, data processing, and regulatory compliance—making sophisticated aerial capabilities accessible without the high upfront investment. The DaaS market is forecast to reach $27.3 billion by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.1% from 2026 to 2033. Industries like agriculture, construction, and environmental management are increasingly leveraging DaaS for enhanced efficiency.

3. Accelerated Adoption of Automated Drone Delivery

With clearer regulations for BVLOS operations, drone delivery services for packages, food, and medical supplies are set to become more common in suburban and rural areas. The global drone package delivery market is projected to reach nearly $6.8 billion by 2026, with North America being a dominant market. Companies like Wing and Zipline are expected to expand their operations significantly.

Reference: Market research from Facts and Factors projects the global drone package delivery market to hit $6.8 billion by the end of 2026.

4. Advanced AI and Machine Learning Integration

By 2026, artificial intelligence and machine learning will be central to drone operations, enabling a higher degree of autonomy. AI-powered systems will enhance navigation, object detection and avoidance, and data analysis. This will lead to more intelligent and efficient drones capable of performing complex tasks like precision agriculture, autonomous infrastructure inspections, and even participating in search and rescue missions with minimal human intervention.

5. Growth of the Counter-UAS (C-UAS) Market

The proliferation of drones will be met with a corresponding rise in the demand for counter-drone technologies. The global counter-UAV market is projected to reach over $2 billion by 2026. This growth is driven by the need to protect critical infrastructure, public venues, and military installations from unauthorized or malicious drone activity. Advancements in C-UAS will include more sophisticated detection systems, such as radar and RF scanners, and a variety of mitigation techniques.

Reference: A forecast by Facts and Factors estimates the global counter-UAV market will reach $2 billion by 2026, with North America being a key market due to significant DoD investment.

6. Specialization of Drones for Industrial Applications

The one-size-fits-all approach to drones is fading. By 2026, there will be a greater emphasis on specialized drones designed for specific industrial tasks. This includes agricultural drones with advanced multispectral sensors for crop health analysis, construction drones with high-resolution cameras and LiDAR for site surveying and progress monitoring, and energy sector drones equipped for safe and efficient inspection of wind turbines and power lines.

7. Expansion of Public Sector and Law Enforcement Use

Government agencies at the federal, state, and local levels will continue to expand their use of drones. In 2026, UAS will be integral to public safety for applications like situational awareness during emergencies, search and rescue operations, and accident reconstruction. They will also be increasingly used for infrastructure inspection and environmental monitoring.

8. Advancements in Sensor and Payload Technology

The capabilities of drones are largely defined by their payloads. In 2026, we can expect to see more advanced and miniaturized sensors being integrated into drone platforms. This includes lighter and more powerful LiDAR systems for creating detailed 3D maps, hyperspectral sensors for environmental analysis, and more sophisticated thermal imaging cameras for a variety of applications.

9. Increased Focus on Data Security and Management

As drones become key tools for collecting vast amounts of data, ensuring the security and proper management of that information will be a top priority. By 2026, there will be a greater emphasis on secure data transmission, encrypted storage, and robust data management platforms to handle the influx of aerial imagery and sensor data, particularly in sensitive sectors like critical infrastructure and defense.

10. Maturation of Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) Systems

To safely manage the growing number of drones in the airspace, the development and implementation of Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) systems will be a key focus. By 2026, we will see more mature UTM platforms that can provide services such as airspace design, dynamic geofencing, severe weather and wind avoidance, and conflict avoidance between drones and other aircraft. These systems will be crucial for enabling the high-density drone operations of the future.

About the Author: Daniel Stiel graduated from the University of Southern California School of Business and earned the FAA Part 107 Certified Drone Pilot in 2020. Dan currently teaches Commercial Photography and Drone Imaging at the College of the Desert in Southern California.

The Looming Ban on DJI Drones in the United States

September 7, 2025September 7, 2025 / editor

Last week, the largest “Unmanned Aerial Systems” trade show in the United States took place in Las Vegas. A hot topic at the conference was the legislation which could take effect later this year that will effectively ban the sale of new DJI drones in the U.S., and the impact on commercial, enterprise, public sector, government agencies, and even recreational drone users.

As of September 7, 2025, there is no official, full-scale ban on DJI drones in the United States. However, the situation is dynamic, with legislation on the verge of taking effect that could severely restrict the sale and use of new DJI products.

The Looming Deadline: December 23, 2025

The most significant development is a provision in the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), passed in late 2024. This legislation requires a U.S. national security agency to conduct a formal security review of DJI’s products by December 23, 2025.

If this audit is not completed by the deadline, a ban will be automatically triggered. Specifically, DJI would be added to the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) “Covered List,” which would effectively prohibit the sale and importation of new DJI drones in the U.S.

As of July 2025, no audit has been scheduled, leading to significant uncertainty for the drone industry and consumers.

In this podcast, Amanda and Kevin debate the “pros” and “cons” of a ban of DJI drones in the United States.

What Products are Impacted?

While a full ban is not yet in place, the potential restrictions would primarily impact the import and sale of new DJI products. This would include popular consumer and enterprise models across their product lines, such as:

Consumer Drones: DJI’s Mavic, Air, Mini, and FPV series.
Enterprise Drones: The Matrice series, designed for commercial and industrial applications.
Other Products: The ban could also extend to other DJI equipment, such as their camera gimbals, accessories, and possibly even parts.

It is important to note that a potential ban would not make existing DJI drones illegal to own or operate. However, it could lead to complications. For instance, future firmware updates, official support, and warranty claims might be at risk.¹⁰ The scarcity of new drones has already made it difficult for consumers and businesses to acquire DJI products, leading to a rise in the second-hand market and concerns about future parts availability.

Who is Impacted?

A ban on new DJI products would have a wide-ranging impact across various sectors in the U.S. due to the company’s dominant market share. DJI reportedly accounts for a large majority of the commercial and consumer drone market in the United States.

1. Commercial Businesses:

A ban would be a major blow to countless commercial businesses that have built their operations around DJI’s reliable and cost-effective technology. This includes:

Real Estate and Photography: Businesses that rely on high-quality aerial photography and videography for marketing and documentation.
Construction and Surveying: Companies using drones for site mapping, progress tracking, and infrastructure inspections.
Agriculture: Farmers and agricultural service providers who use drones for crop monitoring, surveying, and precision spraying.
Filmmaking: The film and television industry, which frequently uses DJI drones for professional-grade aerial shots.

2. Government and Public Safety Sectors:

Despite a number of existing federal restrictions on Chinese-made drones for government use, a significant number of state and local public safety agencies still rely on DJI drones. A rapid ban could create major operational challenges for:

Law Enforcement: Police departments that use drones for search and rescue operations, accident reconstruction, and surveillance.
Fire Departments: Firefighters who use drones to assess wildfire spread, locate hot spots, and monitor emergency situations from the air.
Public Utilities: Agencies that use drones to inspect critical infrastructure like power lines, bridges, and pipelines.

3. Consumers and Hobbyists:

The largest user group impacted would be individual consumers and hobbyists who use DJI drones for recreational purposes. The potential ban on new sales and lack of official support could limit access to new technology and make it harder to maintain existing drones.

Conclusion:

The legislative efforts to ban DJI, driven by national security and data privacy concerns, have highlighted the U.S.’s heavy reliance on a foreign-manufactured technology. While domestic drone manufacturers exist, they often do not offer the same level of performance or competitive pricing, making a smooth transition difficult for many users and businesses.

The outcome of the December 23 deadline will determine the future landscape of the U.S. drone industry.

Meet Dan Stiel and Nevo Financial

August 21, 2025August 30, 2025 / editor

In the complex world of product development and marketing, project management, branding, marketing, finding a partner with both deep industry expertise and a forward-thinking approach can be a challenge. That’s where Dan Stiel and his company, Nevo Financial, come in.

Corporate Leadership

Dan’s background is a unique blend of corporate leadership and entrepreneurial spirit.

Dan Stiel spent over four decades in high-level positions at major financial institutions like Bank of America, First Interstate Bancorp, Visa, Tosco/Circle K, and many others. His work included marketing, product development, and leadership roles where he was a key part of teams that developed and launched “game-changing” innovations. This includes being a marketing and/or product lead for the original launch of the Interlink POS and Cirrus ATM networks, as well as being first to market with Visa Debit Cards and developing various co-brand and private-label credit cards. His corporate history demonstrates an ability to succeed within established, large-scale business environments and drive success on significant projects.

Nevo Financial’s mission is to offer clients the benefit of Dan’s extensive experience and innovative thinking, helping them navigate the ever-changing landscape of AI, automated aerial systems, robotics, financial services and retail payments. They are a valuable resource for businesses seeking expert advice and strategic direction in a rapidly evolving market.

For more information, visit Dan’s LinkedIn Profile, then call Dan personally at (512) 887-8435.

Key Provisions of the FAA Part 108 Proposal

August 17, 2025August 18, 2025 / editor

The proposed FAA Part 108 rule seeks to create a predictable and scalable framework for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations, which are currently handled on a case-by-case basis through waivers. This new rule aims to enhance safety, efficiency, and scalability for a wide range of drone applications, including package delivery, agriculture, and infrastructure inspection.

The following is our analysis of the key provisions, based on extensive review of the FAA’s NPRM, interviews with subject matter experts, and published research.

The following is our analysis of the key provisions of the FAA’s proposed Part 108 rules

Abolishes individual waivers: The rule creates a standardized, repeatable pathway for routine BVLOS operations, eliminating the need for individual waivers and exemptions.
Two operational tracks: It establishes a two-tiered system for authorization:
- Permits for lower-risk operations (e.g., small drones, limited fleet size, specific purposes like surveying or training).
- Certificates for higher-risk or larger-scale operations (e.g., fleets of heavier aircraft).

Performance-based requirements: The rule focuses on performance outcomes rather than prescriptive design details. This allows for innovation and faster market entry for new drone models while maintaining safety.
Higher weight limits: The rule proposes new weight categories for unmanned aircraft, including up to 55 pounds, 110 pounds, and 1,320 pounds, depending on the operation type and authorization.
Emphasis on security: It includes new requirements for both physical and cybersecurity, such as limiting access to launch sites and implementing policies to protect networks and data.
New job roles: The proposal introduces new job roles like “Operations Supervisor” and “Flight Coordinator,” who would be responsible for the overall safety of drone operations. This shifts the focus from a single pilot to organizational responsibility.
Operational limitations: Manufacturers would be responsible for establishing the operational limits of their drones (e.g., speed, weather tolerance), and operators would be required to stay within those limits.
Detect and Avoid (DAA) capabilities: Drones operating in Class B or C airspace would need an onboard system to detect and avoid other aircraft. The rule also introduces the concept of Automated Data Service Providers (ADSPs) to help manage traffic and collision avoidance.
Crew rest requirements: Similar to manned aviation, the rule proposes limits on flight crew duty time, including a maximum of 14-hour shifts and a mandatory 10-hour rest period between shifts.
Operations over people: The rule would allow operations over people but with restrictions, especially for large, open-air gatherings like concerts or sporting events. It proposes five categories of operations over people based on population density, each with its own set of restrictions.
Airspace integration: The proposal outlines procedures for UAS to operate within the existing airspace structure, reducing conflicts with manned aircraft.
No new pilot certificate: The rule does not require a new pilot certificate for these operations. Instead, it relies on organizational training and the new designated roles.
Operational approval: Operators would need to secure FAA approval for their intended flight areas, specifying boundaries and takeoff/landing zones.
Data logging and recordkeeping: The rule would require operators to maintain significant records, including maintenance, personnel training, and flight data, which must be made available for inspection.
Remote ID and lighting: Drones operating under Part 108 would be required to have lighting and to broadcast Remote ID.

New FAA Drone Rules – Part 108 Explained
The following video narrated by Pilot Institute’s Greg Reverdiau is relevant because it provides a detailed breakdown and explanation of the proposed FAA Part 108 rules for drone operations:

Proposed changes to Operations over People

The proposed FAA Part 108 rule introduces specific changes to how drones can be operated over people, moving away from the previous restrictions under Part 107. The goal is to enable more complex and scalable drone operations while maintaining public safety.

Here are the details of the proposed changes to operations over people:

Five Categories of Operations: The rule establishes five distinct categories of operations over people, which are based on population density. The level of restriction and the requirements for the operator will vary depending on the category.
Prohibition on Large Gatherings: While the rule allows for operations over people, it specifically prohibits operations over large, open-air gatherings like concerts, sporting events, or crowded parks.
Operational Restrictions: Each of the five categories will have its own set of operational restrictions. For instance, newsgathering operations will be limited to “Category 3” population density and above, which means they would be restricted from flying in heavily populated areas of smaller towns.
Focus on Public Safety: The overarching principle is to balance the need for innovative services with public safety. The rule aims to mitigate risk by defining a structured framework for when and where drones can fly over people.
Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS): This rule is a key part of the larger effort to enable BVLOS operations, which are essential for applications like package delivery and urban air mobility. Allowing operations over people is a crucial step for these services to become viable.

These changes are designed to provide a clear and predictable pathway for drone operators, reducing the reliance on case-by-case waivers and enabling a wider range of commercial applications.

The five categories of operations over people

The proposed FAA Part 108 rule introduces a new framework for operations over people, which is a key part of enabling large-scale, Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations. The rule establishes five categories of operations over people based on population density, with each category having specific requirements.

Category 1: The most sparsely populated areas, defined as being farther than 1 statute mile from any cell with a population of 10 people or higher. This category is intended for operations in rural or uninhabited areas.
Category 2: Areas with a low population density, often characterized by scattered buildings or small, rural communities. Operations in this category would have fewer restrictions compared to more populated areas.
Category 3: Areas of moderate population, such as residential developments and single-family homes. This category would be a common setting for many commercial drone applications, like package delivery. The proposal mentions that newsgathering operations would be limited to this category and above, meaning they would not be allowed in more densely populated areas of small towns.
Category 4: Densely populated areas, such as suburban neighborhoods with a mix of residential and commercial properties. Operations in this category would require more rigorous safety measures and a higher level of FAA oversight.
Category 5: The most densely populated areas, typically found in urban environments and city centers. This category would have the most stringent requirements, reflecting the increased risk to people and property.

In addition to these five categories, the proposal also maintains the existing prohibition on operations over large, open-air gatherings like concerts, sporting events, or crowded parks, regardless of the population density of the surrounding area.

References

Based on the information gathered, the FAA Part 108 proposal is a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that was officially released by the FAA. This is the primary source document. Our analysis is a synthesis of the NPRM’s key provisions, as broken down by various news and industry publications.

Here is a list of the references used to prepare these talking points and material:

Primary Source:
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): The official “Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM): Normalizing Unmanned Aircraft Systems Beyond Visual Line of Sight Operations” is the foundational document. It outlines the proposed new rule, its rationale, and its specific provisions.
Secondary Sources (Summaries and Analyses):
- Commercial UAV News: This publication provided a breakdown of the NPRM, including details about the TSA’s involvement, security requirements, and the purpose of the new rule.
- Pillsbury Law: Their analysis provided a clear summary of the operational permits and certificates, the proposed weight limits, and the five categories for operations over people based on population density.
- DroneLife: An article from this publication broke down the key talking points of the NPRM, including the new job roles (Operations Supervisor and Flight Coordinator), the shift to performance-based requirements, and the emphasis on manufacturer-defined operational limits.
- Vertical Aviation International: Their summary highlighted the rule’s role in advancing the integration of UAS into the National Airspace System and its impact on various sectors.
- Advexure: Their article provided context on the need for Part 108 and its origins in the BVLOS Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) report.
- FAA Fact Sheet: The official fact sheet from the FAA newsroom provides a high-level overview of the proposed rule, including its key provisions for enabling BVLOS operations and its approach to operations over people.

These sources collectively provided the comprehensive details and key talking points that were summarized in the previous responses. The information about the population density categories being based on “Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s LandScan USA” was a specific detail found within these secondary sources, which themselves are summarizing the content of the official NPRM.

Top Ten 2026 Trends for Drones & Unmanned Aerial Systems

August 15, 2025August 17, 2025 / editor

1. Mainstreaming of Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Operations

2. The Rise of “Drone-as-a-Service” (DaaS)

3. Accelerated Adoption of Automated Drone Delivery

Reference: Market research from Facts and Factors projects the global drone package delivery market to hit $6.8 billion by the end of 2026.

4. Advanced AI and Machine Learning Integration

5. Growth of the Counter-UAS (C-UAS) Market

Reference: A forecast by Facts and Factors estimates the global counter-UAV market will reach $2 billion by 2026, with North America being a key market due to significant DoD investment.

6. Specialization of Drones for Industrial Applications

7. Expansion of Public Sector and Law Enforcement Use

8. Advancements in Sensor and Payload Technology

9. Increased Focus on Data Security and Management

10. Maturation of Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) Systems

About the Author: Daniel Stiel has been a FAA Part 107 Certified Drone Pilot since 2020 and currently teaches Commercial Photography and Drone Imaging at the College of the Desert in Southern California.

A taste of Nevo Financial

October 1, 2015August 17, 2025 / editor

Twenty-plus years of marketing success

Nevo Financial LLC was a Delaware Limited Liability Company formed in April 2000 by Daniel Stiel.

Nevo Financial LLC and the team helps our clients see and act on the monumental trillion-dollar opportunities to optimize their customers’ experience holistically through strategies, products and services that are recognized for quality, performance and innovation in digital delivery, financial access, customer care, transaction processing, analytics, compliance, operations, security and risk management.

About Dan Stiel

A graduate of the University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business, Dan is also a retired California Commercial Real Estate Broker (#01886935), an accomplished commercial, automotive and architectural photographer, FAA Part 107-certificated commercial drone cinematographer, and was certified in 2014 as a Project Management Professional (PMP) by the Project Management Institute.

He also serves as an Adjunct Professor at the College of the Desert in Southern California, teaching commercial photography and drone imaging.

To learn more about Dan and his career, visit his profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stiel/