Flying Drones Post-DJI Ban: A Roadmap for Drone Pilots

Ladies and gentlemen of the skies, the winds of change are upon us. The drone industry is facing some headwinds with the proposed DJI ban.

This opens up an opportunity to explore new possibilities and advance your drone business. DJI may have been a trusted companion for many, but it’s time to chart a new course.

Here’s how you can navigate these changes and keep your business soaring:

Step 1: Research New Wings

First things first, start exploring other manufacturers. DJI might have been a go-to, but with the ban, it’s time to discover US-based drone manufacturers! The market is full of exciting options. We recommend checking out Freefly Astro, a portable drone known for its incredible mapping and video capabilities. But that’s just one option – take some time to research different brands, read reviews, and ideally, try some drones out for yourself.

Step 2: Focus on Your Core Mission

Now, let’s get down to business. What kind of drone work is your bread and butter and generates 80% of the revenue? Is it capturing stunning aerial photos, creating detailed maps, providing inspection services, or something else?

Knowing your specialty will help you choose the perfect drone – a drone that aces that specific task. It’s better to be a master of one than a jack of all trades. Pick a drone that aligns perfectly with your main source of income.

Step 3: Niche vs. Versatile Drones

Think of your drone as a toolbox – do you need a set of specialized wrenches for a particular task or a multi-tool that tackles various jobs? Niche drones are like those wrenches, perfect for specific tasks like cleaning windows on skyscrapers.

Versatile drones are multi-tools, offering flexibility for different projects like photography and inspections. Consider what best suits your business. If you focus on a few specific services, a niche drone might be perfect. But if you offer a wider range of jobs, a versatile drone might be a better investment.

Step 4: Automate to Elevate

In today’s busy world, time saved is money earned. That’s where automation comes in as your best friend. Streamlining your operations with tools like automated flight planning, data processing software, and automated client reporting can be a game-changer. These tools free up your time, minimize errors, and ultimately make working with you a breeze for clients. The more efficient your workflow, the more you’ll stand out to potential clients.

Step 5: Communicate and Educate

Transparency is key. Proactively communicate with your clients about the potential DJI ban and its impact on your services. Let them know your plan for moving forward, reassure them of your commitment to maintaining high-quality service, and highlight the new tools and strategies you’ll be using to keep – or even improve – the level of service they expect. This open communication will build trust and confidence in your business.

Coaching and Support

Feeling a bit overwhelmed? If you need coaching on how to pivot your drone business after the ban. We’ve got your back.

Our coaching calls (free for Drone U Members) will be diving deep into strategies to help you adapt your business post-ban. Join us and let’s navigate these changes together!

So, there you have it.

The DJI ban may be a bump in the air, but with the right approach, you can use it to propel your business even higher.

Stay positive, keep learning, and keep flying!