Autonomous Akin Update - August 2024

In this late summer edition, we’d like to call your attention to several big developments with respect to federal regulation of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS). Just before Labor Day, the Federal Communications Commission released long-awaited rules for uncrewed flight using 5 GHz spectrum. We’ve included a brief write-up on the new rules below, and you are more than welcome to reach out to us with any questions as you navigate this new framework. Also of note, the House of Representatives passed the Countering CCP Drones Act, which would place drone maker DJI on the FCC’s “Covered List.” Covered entities are unable to obtain FCC equipment authorization, which is required to import, market, or sell equipment that emits radiofrequency in the U.S. This would hamstring DJI’s ability to market new products, likely with far-reaching impacts given DJI’s outsized market share in the United States. More on this development is below. Thank you, as always, for reading!

In this Issue

• Akin Spotlight
• Updates from Washington
• Industry News
• Akin Thought Leadership
• Events