US Drone Tariffs Hit 25–100% from September, FCC Eyes LiDAR Ban

US Section 232 tariffs on imported drones kick in September 3rd: 25% on sub-25kg drones (most DJI consumer and prosumer lines), 100% on drones over 25kg, thermal-integrated models, and docking stations. A separate FCC proposal (DA 26-758) could ban future imports of drones with integrated LiDAR for obstacle avoidance — explicitly naming the DJI Mini 5 Pro, Air 3S, Avata 360, and Neo 2. If the FCC adopts the proposal, a transition period of roughly 180 days would apply before any sales or import restriction takes effect. Drones already in private hands are unaffected by either measure.