DJI is ending a program to prevent drones from flying in restricted areas

DJI, a China-based technology company, has eliminated its geofencing software, which prevented people from flying drones over the White House, runways, power plants, and during public emergencies.

First reported by The Verge, the change, which took effect on Monday, means that instead of enforcing “no-fly zones,” previously restricted areas will be displayed as “enhanced warning zones.”

“In these areas, in-app alerts will notify operators flying close to FAA-controlled airspace, putting control back in the hands of drone operators, consistent with regulatory principles of the operator having ultimate responsibility,” DJI said. “.

While it is generally legal to use a drone in most places, the FAA says recreational travelers cannot enter the airspace around airports, designated facilities sensitive to national security, certain military bases, infrastructure, national monuments and places covered by restrictions. Temporary flight.

On DJI’s blog, the company said that when its geofencing system was introduced in 2013, consumer drones were still a new technology, and there weren’t a lot of flight rules and regulations.

While GPS was initially created as a voluntary built-in feature to help “promote responsible flying practices,” DJI said that “global regulations and user awareness have evolved significantly.”

The company added that its remote identity solutions make detecting and enforcing drone restrictions much easier.

“The FAA has introduced remote ID requirements, meaning drones flying in the United States must broadcast the equivalent of a drone ‘license plate,’” DJI told The Verge. “This requirement comes into effect in early 2024, providing authorities with the tools to enforce existing rules.”

The Verge noted that the DJI drone that collided with an aircraft fighting wildfires in the Los Angeles area was a model of less than 250 grams and may not require Remote ID to operate.

In a statement to NewsNation, the FAA said it does not require geolocation from drone manufacturers.

“The FAA’s role is to ensure drones operate safely within the National Airspace System. Drone operators must adhere to FAA regulations, including obtaining appropriate airspace authorization when needed,” the statement said.

Violations of these regulations range from counseling and education to stiff fines and suspension or revocation of a pilot’s certificate.

The Verge reported that the US government has banned some of its drone imports and called DJI a “Chinese military company.”

However, in another blog post, DJI said that this change is not politically motivated.

“Aviation regulatory agencies around the world – including the FAA – have developed the operator liability doctrine,” DJI said. “This GEO update is consistent with and respects that principle. We have been planning to roll out this update in the US for months but delayed implementation to ensure the update would work properly.”