On June 6, 2025, former President Donald Trump signed two executive orders to accelerate America’s drone industry by cutting regulations and expanding flight rules. The orders, titled “Unleashing American Drone Dominance” and “Leading the World in Supersonic Flight,” aim to speed up drone delivery services and aviation innovation. They direct federal agencies like the FAA and DOT to reduce red tape, streamline approvals, and focus on advancing drone technologies.
The orders eliminate old rules requiring operators to get special permission for flights beyond their sight. This change could let drones fly longer routes for tasks like delivering Amazon packages, surveying crops, or transporting medical supplies. Federal agencies will use artificial intelligence to approve drone operations faster, cutting wait times from months to days. The FAA is also testing pilot programs for electric “flying taxis” that take off vertically, which could move cargo or help in emergencies like wildfires. Under the eVTOL Integration Pilot Program, the Department of Transportation will publicly seek proposals by September 2025 and name at least five projects to test urban air mobility by December.
Trump’s plan prioritizes U.S.-made drones to reduce reliance on foreign tech, especially from China. It encourages companies to build drones domestically and sell them overseas.
New safeguards will prevent foreign powers from accessing sensitive drone systems. The Pentagon and police departments could get advanced drones for missions, while farmers and filmmakers gain tools to improve efficiency.
Economically, the orders aim to enhance American companies in the $150 billion global drone market. They’ll expand access to financing, simplify export rules, and promote drone use in sectors like energy and agriculture.
Supporters say the moves will create jobs and help the U.S. lead in drone tech. Critics worry about privacy risks or airspace congestion but admit the rules include safety measures like collision-avoidance tech.
Over a dozen federal agencies, including NASA and the Department of Defense, will coordinate to modernize airspace for drones. The FAA must draft plans to safely mix drones with passenger planes by 2030.
While challenges remain, the White House claims these steps will make drone delivery as common as Uber rides—meaning your morning coffee might soon land on your doorstep.
