FAA BVLOS NPRM Missed Deadline, Drone Ban Proposal, and a Drone Collision with a Helicopter in Texas: What Every Drone Professional Needs to Know

Introduction

This summer, the U.S. drone industry is navigating through significant challenges. The anticipated rules for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations have not progressed, Congress is considering a potential DJI drone ban that could significantly affect the U.S. market, and a recent incident involving a drone collision with a helicopter in Texas is driving calls for increased regulatory measures. For drone enthusiasts, business owners, or concerned citizens, this comprehensive guide will help demystify these evolving situations and clarify the implications for the future of unmanned aviation in America.

BVLOS NPRM: Another Missed Deadline

BVLOS operations, where drones operate beyond the pilot’s line of sight, are viewed as the next major advancement in fields like drone delivery, infrastructure inspection, agriculture, and emergency response. Currently, regulations under Part 107 only permit such flights through individual waivers, which complicates and adds cost to scaling innovative operations.

The Promise and the Wait

• In June 2025, the Trump administration issued an executive order for the FAA to release a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) for new BVLOS regulations within 30 days, aimed at establishing Part 108, a rigorous timeline.
• The proposed regulations were intended to transition BVLOS approvals from case-by-case to a standardized process, with a final rule to be expected by January 2026.
• However, as of July 2025, this deadline remains unmet, leaving the industry eager for resolutions amid regulatory inertia.

“The question remains: is today the day the long-awaited Part 108 rule finally sees the light of day, or are we witnessing yet another missed deadline in the protracted saga of U.S. drone rulemaking?”

What’s at Stake with BVLOS?

A feasible BVLOS rule could:

• Remove the need for most waivers, reducing time and cost burdens for operators.
• Facilitate routine and scalable operations for applications such as medical deliveries to remote locales and automated agricultural surveillance.
• Introduce designated airspace corridors and revise “right-of-way” rules to reflect the sophistication of modern drones.
• Potentially mandate detect-and-avoid sensors and certified communication systems on BVLOS drones.

“From drones delivering your packages to conducting critical infrastructure inspections, unmanned aircraft represent the future of aviation.”
— U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy

The delays mean that American companies, big and small, are still at a competitive disadvantage compared to nations with more adaptable regulations.

The DJI Drone Ban Proposal: What’s Happening?

DJI has long led the global drone market with its affordable and dependable platforms. Yet, since 2017, U.S. lawmakers have raised security concerns, fearing DJI drones might relay sensitive information to China or be misused for espionage.

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) 2025

• The NDAA 2025 schedules U.S. national security agencies to carry out a security review of DJI by December 23, 2025.
• If no agency conducts this audit, DJI drones will be automatically banned, joining the FCC Covered List.
• This action would stop new DJI drones from being imported or sold in the U.S., greatly complicating their use across sectors like law enforcement and emergency services.

“As of July 2025, no agency has scheduled a review, and DJI is on track to be banned in the U.S. at the end of the year unless something changes.”

What Makes the 2025 Proposal Different?

Unlike prior proposals, such as the Countering CCP Drones Act, which suggested an immediate ban, the NDAA offers a year for review. Without an agency volunteering for the audit, an automatic ban is anticipated, leaving both hobbyists and professionals concerned.

What Are the Arguments for and Against the Ban?

For:

• National security concerns about possible data transmission to China.
• Seeking to reduce dependency on a foreign technology leader in sensitive sectors.

Against:

• DJI’s advanced technology is extensively used by police, firefighters, and private businesses.
• An abrupt ban could dampen innovation, elevate costs, and render numerous fleets obsolete.

Real-Life Impact

• Should the ban enforce, expect cost increases, equipment shortages, and scramble for U.S. or EU alternatives.
• Service providers relying on DJI fleets, such as roof inspectors or news teams, could face operational upheaval.

State-Level Laws: Florida’s “Reasonable Force” Proposal

State legislation is also influencing the drone landscape. Florida considered, but ultimately dropped, a contentious proposal permitting the use of “reasonable force” to down drones suspected of privacy breaches.

• Instead, the HB 1121 law bans drone flights over numerous “critical infrastructure” sites but does not permit citizens to attack drones.
• Restricted areas now include power plants, prisons, communication towers, airports, and military bases—sites often unmarked in standard drone apps.
• Federal law remains authoritative: damaging a drone is a felony under U.S. Code, as drones are legally defined as “aircraft.”

This state-federal discrepancy creates a perilous trap for drone pilots who could be pursued by aggressive property owners or face prosecution for unintentional errors.

Drone Hits Helicopter in Texas: Why Incidents Matter

In June 2025, a drone collided with a helicopter in Texas, sparking debates around safety and culpability. While details are evolving, the incident typifies prominent concerns:

• Non-adherence to see-and-avoid guidelines can lead to catastrophes, even with small UAS.
• These collisions intensify demands for tighter regulations, enhanced pilot training, and adherence to remote ID and geofencing.

These incidents stress the urgent need for clear regulations so operators can safely grow their businesses and the public can remain secure.

What Does This Mean for You?

No matter if you fly drones recreationally, operate a drone business, or develop drone technology, these developments should be on your radar:

1. BVLOS Rules:

If you’re considering long-range operations, keep an eye on Part 108 updates over the next 6–12 months and prepare for potential new hardware or training needs.

2. DJI Ban:

If your fleet includes DJI products, evaluate alternatives, budget for potential price changes, and stay updated on legal developments. Public agencies might consider stockpiling spares or lobbying for federal review.

3. State Laws:

Always verify local restrictions before flying and don’t rely solely on app-based geofencing. Promote community awareness regarding the risks of taking legal matters into their own hands!

4. Accidents:

Avoid tight corners on pilot training or risk management strategies. Incidents like the Texas collision may prompt the FAA and lawmakers to impose strict guidelines on unsafe operations.

Expert Tips and Industry Insights

• Stay Connected: Join professional forums like the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International for the latest on regulations and operator networking.
• Be Proactive: In industries like public safety, construction, or media, contact your lawmakers to ensure your sector’s concerns are addressed in forthcoming drone laws.
• Educate Your Clients: Many clients may not be aware of rapid changes in legal frameworks. Inform them to manage expectations regarding delays, added paperwork, or cost shifts.
• Back Up Data: If using a DJI drone, download and store firmware and flight logs securely for potential compliance or legal needs.

Memorable Anecdotes and Pop Culture

Recall the