Autel Robotics
Chinese drone maker added to FCC Covered List; suing the FCC over the decision.
Last refreshed: 30 March 2026 · Appears in 1 active topic
Can a Chinese drone company sue its way back into the US market?
Latest on Autel Robotics
- Is Autel banned in the US?
- Autel cannot certify new drone models for the US market after being added to the FCC Covered List. Existing models remain legal.Source: background
- Why was Autel added to the Covered List?
- Section 1709 of the FY2025 NDAA required the FCC to add foreign UAS manufacturers citing national security concerns about Chinese-made drones.Source: background
- Is Autel suing the FCC?
- Yes. Autel filed suit in February 2026, the first Chinese drone company to legally challenge the Covered List decision.Source: background
- Can I still use my Autel drone?
- Yes. The Covered List blocks new model certifications, not the import, sale, or use of previously authorised devices.Source: quick_facts
Background
Autel Robotics is a Chinese drone manufacturer headquartered in Shenzhen, producing consumer and commercial UAS platforms. Along with DJI, Autel was added to the FCC Covered List on 22 December 2025 under Section 1709 of the FY2025 NDAA, which prohibits new FCC equipment authorisations for foreign-produced UAS and critical components.
The listing means Autel cannot certify new drone models for the US market, though existing authorised models remain legal to sell and operate. In February 2026, Autel filed a lawsuit against the FCC challenging the Covered List decision, making it the first Chinese drone company to take legal action.
The FCC action is part of a broader US regulatory tightening on Chinese drone equipment, driven by bipartisan national security concerns about data transmission and market distortion. The practical effect accelerates demand for US-manufactured alternatives like Skydio and Red Cat Holdings.