October 12, 2026

By Lane Kimble

There’s a pretty good chance the drone you or your company owns can no longer be used on major highway projects.

The Federal Highway Administration last week released policy guidance and FAQs banning the use of most foreign-made drones on projects receiving federal funding.

About 90% of commercially licensed drones in the U.S. in 2025 were made by Chinese-owned DJI, which is a federally restricted “covered foreign entity.”

The FHWA rules not only prohibit using federal funds to buy foreign-made drones for transportation construction work but also bans their general use by contractors and state DOTs on projects simply supported by federal money, regardless of when or how the aircraft was purchased.

The drone guidance took effect immediately, according to ARTBA.

ARTBA is urging FHWA to provide clarity, guidance and education for contractors as soon as possible.  Anyone who encounters challenges, delays or concerns in regards to the new drone rules should contact ARTBA’s Rich Juliano or Prianka Sharma.