News, deep dives, and analysis — every Specialist story, newest first.
I put the DJI Neo 2 through an absolute gauntlet, and the results genuinely surprised me. We’re talking tight forest trails, cliffsides, high-speed road descents pushing 48 km/h, and an abandoned resort run all the way down to the ocean. This is the kind of testing that breaks drones, and that’s exactly the point. Here’s…
I’ve been warning about the consequences of a DJI ban for over a year. Now we have the data to prove it. Pilot Institute surveyed 8,056 drone operators across the United States, and the findings confirm our worst fears: the ban that took effect on December 22, 2025 will devastate the American drone industry while…
The FCC's December 23 drone policy didn't flip a switch. It started a countdown. Russ from 51 Drones explains how the drone ban affects emergency response, food costs, and infrastructure.
These drones really are the cat’s meow, and occasionally the cow’s moo. Along the Jersey Shore, while most people worry about beach traffic and seagulls stealing fries, Michael Parziale is launching drones to bring missing pets home. Parziale, 64, a restaurant owner and FAA licensed drone pilot, has built an 18 drone rescue fleet through…
I was genuinely excited when these 360° prop guards for the DJI Mini 5 Pro finally became available. After testing them extensively, I can tell you they’re unlike anything DJI has released before – but not entirely in the ways you might expect. Here’s what you need to know upfront: The full details come from…
2025 is coming to an end, and I’ve been reflecting on what an incredible lineup DJI has when it comes to drones. No matter what your needs, no matter your budget, there’s a perfect drone for you. I get asked all the time about my favorite drone or which one I recommend. I usually give…
I’ve flown many of “DJI alternatives” over the years, and they all failed the same test: obstacle avoidance. The moment you needed to fly sideways through trees or track a moving subject, those budget options revealed themselves as expensive toys. The Skyrover X1 is different. It actually matches the DJI Mini 4 Pro’s professional safety…
Welcome to your weekly UAS news update. I only have two stories for you this week, although one is kind of a long one. The FCC adds all UAS and UAS critical components manufactured in a foreign country to the covered list. And that was kind of a plot twist. The second story has to…
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