HoverAir's New Drone May Exploit an FCC Loophole
HoverAir has launched its new $750 Versa drone, claiming it avoids the U.S. government’s foreign drone ban by classifying it as a camera with optional flying capabilities rather than a traditional drone. The company argues that since only DJI and Autel Robotics are explicitly banned under the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), its product is not subject to restrictions because it was certified for sale in the U.S. by the FCC on August 9, 2026. However, experts suggest this classification may be legally tenuous. The FCC’s drone ban includes both drones and their critical components—such as cameras—which are under its jurisdiction if they contain wireless radios. HoverAir submitted only the camera portion for certification, not the propeller kit that enables flight. While it's possible the loophole is valid, there remains a risk of regulatory pushback or reclassification. The situation highlights how companies may attempt to circumvent drone restrictions by creatively defining their products.
Topics: compliance drones FCC HoverAir loophole