ACEC National VP of Infrastructure Matt Reiffer Reported This Announcement from the FCC about Unmanned Aircraft Systems:
On December 22, 2025, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced a ban on the import, marketing, or sale of new foreign-made unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and components. The ruling is based on a national security determination through an interagency working group, pursuant to provisions in last year’s National Defense Authorization Act.
The FCC fact sheet clarifies that the ban only applies to new drones and “does not prohibit the import, sale, or use of any existing device models the FCC previously authorized” and “does not affect any previously-purchased drone. Consumers can continue to use any drone they have already lawfully purchased or acquired.”
The FCC Covered List of now includes “UAS and UAS critical components, including data transmission devices, communications systems, flight controllers, ground control stations, controllers, navigation systems, batteries, smart batteries, and motors produced in a foreign country.” The inclusion of component parts could make maintenance of existing machines more difficult.
The ACEC Transportation Committee discussed this issue at our meeting at our Fall Conference. We know that many member firms use DJI and other foreign-made UAS for various tasks and services. ACEC hosted an online program earlier this year on drone selection and tips for navigating drone bans and compliance requirements.
ACEC will circulate additional information and analysis as it becomes available. Please contact Matt Reiffer directly with any questions or concerns.
Looking ahead to 2026, it’s going to be a very busy year in the transportation policy sector! ACEC will be advocating for a new long-term surface transportation bill, infrastructure permitting reform, and a new WOTUS rule, among other issues.