Drone News: FAA Reauthorization, DJI Mini 4K, and Robinson Helicopters Purchased Ascent AeroSystems

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Welcome to your weekly UAS news update, we have 3 stories for you this week: FAA Reauthorization, DJI Mini 4K, and Robinson Helicopters purchased Ascent AeroSystems.

00:00 Introduction
00:17 FAA Reauthorization
01:30 DJI Mini 4K
03:09 Robinson Helicopters Purchased Ascent AeroSystems

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First up, congress appears close to FAA reauthorization.

The reauthorization is over 1,000 pages, with topics including BVLOS drone operations, fine increases for consumer violations, legislation over near collisions, quality control for large aircraft manufacturers, and FAA staffing.

Congress now will need to vote in favor of the bill before it heads to the President’s desk.

During this time, we need to stay up to date on possible regulations going through Congress that may get lumped into the bill.

The DAA has a new campaign opposing a section of the FAA Reauthorization that would prohibit the DOT from using any money for drones made in China along with the expected-to-be-introduced Drones for First Responders Act.

Check out the DAA Link below to make your voice heard and we'll keep you updated when we see more.



Next up is the DJI Mini 4K.

The drone is currently available for sale on DJI’s Amazon site, with no mention on DJI’s official website.

The Mini 4K supports recording up to 4K 30fps, and 2.7K up to 60 fps.

Other specs remain similar to the old Mini 2 series, with a 31-minute flight time, 3 axis gimbal, smart features like quickshots, panoramic shots, and RTH.

The Mini 4K comes in at $299 for the drone and controller, and the Fly-more combo with extra batteries at $449.

This offers a more cost-effective option for those looking for a 4K drone, as compared to the Mini 3 at $419 for the drone and controller, and $589 for the fly more combo.

Let us know what you think about this new DJI release!



Last up, Robinson Helicopter has acquired Ascent AeroSystems.

If you’re unfamiliar with Ascent, they make the Spirit Drone which is a coaxial tube-like drone primarily used by the military and some industries.

The Spirit has a max takeoff weight of 13.5 lbs, an IP56 Rating, and a maximum flight time with a payload of 38 minutes.

Ascent also makes the NX30, with a 15lb payload, 65-minute endurance, and 35-mile range.

Robinson CEO David Smith hopes to ramp up production of Ascent’s drones to hundreds a month.

We’ll keep you updated if we see more from Robinson and Ascent!



Alright, that’s it, have a great weekend!