DJI claims the decision “aligns” with the FAA’s rules.

Summary

Chinese drone company DJI has removed its geofencing feature that automatically restricted drone flights over sensitive areas, like airports, wildfires, and government buildings, replacing it with dismissible warnings.

The decision follows growing distrust in Chinese-made drones and U.S. regulatory changes.

DJI argues this empowers operators while aligning with global standards, but critics worry it could endanger safety, particularly for unaware pilots.

Previously, geofencing helped prevent incidents, like a DJI drone crash at the White House in 2015.

  • glimse@lemmy.world
    2·
    4 days ago

    I think so? I don’t fly commercially (I have a racing and “indoor” drone) so I’m not sure.

    And yeah, it’s a felony. But a felony doesn’t undo the damage.

    I’m not advocating either way, I see both sides of the argument as having good points

    • hddsx@lemmy.ca
      2·
      3 days ago

      I mean, multi engine planes should be able to fly without one engine. It’s still an emergency, but they should be able to get down.

      In that situation, the UAV operator should have to pay for the repair on top of a punitive fine/jailtime (this is my opinion and is not backed by law).

      On take off? The plane is pretty screwed. Single engine planes are also screwed in general Hitting a prop is catastrophic.

      But you’re right - it doesn’t undo the damage.

      I guess the takeaway is to talk to ATC when you’re at a controlled airfield

      • glimse@lemmy.world
        2·
        3 days ago

        It’s an interesting situation to me because I really don’t know where I stand on it. I’m pretty against government overreach but it’s proven time and time again that we live amongst morons who think they know best…

        I guess the “political climate” lately has me on edge but I really do think I’ll see a civilian-flown drone accidentally cause an aviation catastrophe in my lifetime.

        • hddsx@lemmy.ca
          2·
          3 days ago

          Well, unfortunately aviation rules are written in blood so someone will have to die before the government imposes new restrictions so government overreach won’t be an issue.

          Do drones have ADS-B transponders?

          • glimse@lemmy.world
            2·
            3 days ago

            Mine don’t but they’re not regulated. I looked it up,

            Some type of remote ID may be required in the future, but how the system would work and the requirements has not been finalized.