
DJI, a leading Chinese drone manufacturer, has sparked debate by modifying how its drones interact with restricted airspace. The company, which holds a dominant position in the global drone market, has replaced its previous geofencing system with a new model that offers drone operators more control, as reported by OSINTtechnical in a post on X.
Previously, DJI’s geofencing system prevented drones from flying in sensitive areas such as military bases, airports, and government facilities. This system, part of DJI’s Fly Safe initiative, aimed to prevent drones from entering “no-fly zones” in high-security areas like Washington, D.C., where sites such as the White House and Pentagon were protected. When a drone approached a restricted area, it would either stop mid-flight or automatically land, ensuring that security risks were avoided.
However, DJI’s latest update moves away from this automatic restriction model. Now, operators are notified within the app when they are approaching FAA-controlled airspace, putting more responsibility on the operator to make informed decisions rather than relying on automatic geofencing. DJI argues that this change aligns with the FAA’s Remote ID regulations, which require drones to broadcast their location and identification in real-time, much like a vehicle’s license plate.
The shift has generated mixed reactions. Supporters believe the update provides greater flexibility for drone operators and could spur innovation in drone applications. Critics, however, worry that relaxing airspace restrictions could compromise national security, particularly if drones are used for military operations, as with DJI’s Mavic 3 Pro model, which has been used in conflict zones.
This move also comes at a time when DJI faces scrutiny in the U.S. over national security concerns. The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Countering CCP Drones Act, which seeks to ban new DJI models by adding the company to the FCC’s Covered List. DJI has denied these accusations, arguing that the update to its geofencing system aligns with the FAA’s airspace designations rather than eliminating restrictions altogether.
Clarifying the situation, X stated that DJI has not fully removed its geofencing system in the U.S. Instead, it has been updated to reflect the FAA’s current airspace categories. Previously restricted “No-Fly Zones” are now “Enhanced Warning Zones,” where drones will not be automatically grounded but will trigger in-app notifications when entering controlled airspace.
DJI maintains that this update empowers operators by giving them more control over their flights while still ensuring safety through alerts. This adjustment also aligns with evolving global regulations, including the FAA’s Remote ID requirements, and has already been implemented in several European countries. The company urges drone pilots to stay informed about local regulations and comply with airspace restrictions to ensure safety.
As drone use expands across various sectors, from military to civilian applications, the need for balanced and adaptable regulations becomes more critical. DJI’s latest changes reflect this ongoing evolution in drone technology and regulation.