Washington
Washington state drone news: regulations, industry developments, innovative uses, events, and the impact on businesses and communities in the state.
White House Releases Stunning Holiday Drone Tour by ‘Right Up Our Alley’ Creator
In an unprecedented blend of drone technology and holiday tradition, the White House has released a spectacular first-person view (FPV) drone tour of its 2023 Christmas decorations, created by renowned aerial cinematographer Jay Christensen. The mesmerizing flight, which takes viewers…
Drone Operators Challenge University of Michigan’s Sweeping Aircraft Ban in Landmark Case
A critical legal battle over drone access to airspace is unfolding in Michigan, where operators are challenging the University of Michigan’s broad prohibition of unmanned aircraft over its properties. The case, heard Tuesday in the Michigan Court of Claims, could…
Ukraine Allegedly Supplied Drones to Syrian Rebels Ahead of Assad’s Ouster
Syrian rebels reportedly received covert drone support from Ukrainian intelligence operatives just weeks before toppling the Assad regime, marking a significant escalation in the intersection of global conflicts. According to a Washington Post report citing unnamed sources familiar with Ukraine’s…
Countering CCP Drones Act did NOT make it into NDAA!
We have big news to share. You may already have seen online, but if not, the text of the 2025 NDAA was released by the House Rules Committee on Saturday. We are THRILLED to report that the Countering CCP Drones Act language did…
Drone News: New DJI Releases, Anzu Automated Flights, Washington Drone Rescue
Welcome to your Weekly UAS News Update! We have three stories for you: DJI launches two new Agras products, Anzu Robotics with automated flight planning, and then lastly, a drone rescue in Washington. Let’s get to it! DJI Product Launches…
EU Plans Sanctions on Chinese Firms Making Drones for Russia
The European Union is preparing to expand its sanctions regime against Russia, with a particular focus on Chinese companies involved in manufacturing military drones for Moscow’s war effort. The proposed 15th sanctions package aims to tighten restrictions on Russia’s military…
US Lawmakers Push to Ban Chinese Drones While Industry Experts Defend DJI’s Position
A heated debate is underway in Washington as Republican lawmakers advocate for legislation to ban DJI drones, citing national security concerns. However, in a short film from the Financial Times, [former] DJI executives and industry experts warn that such a…
Weather-Proof DJI M30 Drone Proves Crucial in Dramatic Rescue of Lost Mushroom Hunters in Washington
A weather-proof drone deployed by the Clark County Sheriff’s Office played a pivotal role in rescuing two mushroom hunters lost in Skamania County’s treacherous backcountry during harsh winter conditions on November 17, 2024, reports KOIN. The rescue operation, which involved…
WDFW Launches Drone Program to Count Waterfowl in Washington State
Washington’s wildlife officials are taking to the skies with drones to revolutionize how they track swan and goose populations. The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has initiated a multi-year drone survey program across three counties, according to…
US Drone Maker Skydio Faces Critical Supply Chain Crisis After Chinese Sanctions
Skydio, America’s largest drone manufacturer and a vital supplier to Ukraine’s military, is grappling with an unprecedented supply chain crisis after Beijing imposed sweeping sanctions, blocking access to essential components, according to the Financial Times. Supply Chain Disruption Threatens Operations…
Drone LiDAR Reveals Lost Medieval Cities Along Silk Road, Revolutionizing Archaeological Research
In a groundbreaking archaeological discovery, drone-based LiDAR technology has unveiled two extensive medieval cities hidden in the mountains of Uzbekistan, challenging our understanding of ancient trade routes and urban development. The findings, recently published in Nature, demonstrate how modern aerial…
Lives at Stake: The Hidden Costs of U.S. Tariffs or Bans on DJI Drones
In recent years, DJI drones have become ubiquitous in the U.S., used by everyone from first responders and small businesses to hobbyists and farmers. The reasons are simple: DJI makes highly capable, safe, reliable, affordable, and easy-to-fly drones that are…