Chinese manufacturer DJI has lifted geofences that previously banned its drones from flying over sensitive locations such as airports, military bases, and other government facilities in the United States, The Verge reports. In its blog post, the company announced that this decision was made to comply with the principle of "operator responsibility" supported by aviation regulators. The timing of the announcement, however, sparked much controversy and speculation about the motives behind the move.
The update was made public a few days before the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump and after a number of high-profile drone incidents, including a case where a DJI drone interfered with a plane fighting fires in Los Angeles. This has raised suspicions that the decision is politically motivated. Critics also see this decision as China's response to the TikTok ban in the United States. However, DJI strongly denies any political motives, calling such assumptions "false" and "dangerous."
In its blog, the company stated: “Politics does not drive safety decisions at DJI.” DJI emphasized that the update was planned several months ago, but its implementation was delayed to ensure proper operation.
The drone update removes DJI's geofences, which automatically blocked operators in the United States from flying over restricted areas, including airports, military bases, power plants, active fires, and government facilities such as the White House. The company does not deny that these restrictions have been lifted, but instead positions it as a step to expand operator options and reduce operational delays.
“This was especially challenging for commercial operators, drone businesses — and most critically — public safety agencies performing lifesaving work, where delays are simply unacceptable,” said in a blog post. DJI's geofences were a voluntary measure that was not required by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). According to FAA spokesman Ian Gregor, “The FAA does not require geofencing from drone manufacturers.”
Critics believe that the abolition of geofences could lead to increased risks, including the possible misuse of drones near important infrastructure.