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President Donald J. Trump has signed a sweeping Executive Order to strengthen America’s leadership in uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), directing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other agencies to expand drone operations, support domestic manufacturing, and accelerate advanced air mobility initiatives.
The order instructs the FAA to enable routine “Beyond Visual Line of Sight” (BVLOS) drone operations for commercial and public safety missions. It also mandates the use of artificial intelligence tools to expedite UAS waiver reviews and directs the agency to publish an updated roadmap for integrating civil drones into the National Airspace System.
A new electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) integration pilot program will launch at least five pilot projects focused on cargo transport, emergency medical response, and other advanced air mobility applications.
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“President Trump is harnessing the potential of drones to boost American productivity and global leadership,” the administration stated. Drones are already transforming logistics, infrastructure inspection, agriculture, and public safety. Emerging technologies like eVTOL aircraft promise to modernize cargo delivery, passenger transport, and more.
Domestic production
The Executive Order also prioritizes U.S.-manufactured drones and aims to boost the domestic drone industrial base by removing regulatory barriers, securing supply chains, and promoting American production, certification, and export. The administration emphasized that “unfair foreign competition” has long posed a national security risk and discouraged domestic investment.
“President Trump has advanced cutting-edge drone technologies through smart, targeted regulation,” the White House said. “This Order continues that legacy by unlocking new economic opportunities and ensuring American leadership in the skies.”
By streamlining regulations, expanding federal financing tools, and supporting U.S.-made drones, the administration says it aims to fuel innovation, bolster national security, and ensure long-term economic growth in the drone sector.
