DJI’s Drone Availability in the US: Market Concerns and Stock Shortages

DJI Mavic 4 Pro with RC2 controller
The Mavic 4 Pro, folded, with a DJI RC2 controller.

Concerns are mounting regarding DJI’s future in the US drone market. While the company has publicly stated that it is not exiting the market, it has not provided clarity on the reasons behind the current stock shortages that have left retailers without available drones.

On June 24th, a visit to a local Best Buy revealed a stark absence of DJI products. The entire aisle dedicated to DJI was devoid of drones, with no price tags or lockers in sight. The only items remaining were a few motorized gimbals, action cameras, a solitary RC controller, and an almost empty premium endcap where a flagship drone would typically be displayed.

Empty shelves in the DJI section of Best Buy.
Empty shelves, missing price tags and lockers in the DJI section of Best Buy.
Empty display case for DJI drones.
A case with an empty spot where drones used to go.

A store employee at Best Buy commented, “We’re not really carrying DJI drones anymore because of the US-China thing.” This sentiment reflects a broader trend as retailers grapple with the implications of geopolitical tensions on their inventory.

Best Buy is not the only retailer facing these challenges. DJI’s own US webstore currently lists no drones in stock, as of as DroneDJ reported Monday. Although DJI maintains an official presence on Amazon, the drones available there are primarily sold by third parties, often with limited stock. Furthermore, Best Buy’s website offers little relief, featuring only the last-generation Mavic 3 Pro priced at $3,890, along with a refurbished version of that model and a refurbished version of the 2022 DJI Av.

As the situation evolves, consumers and industry observers are left wondering about the future of DJI in the US market. The lack of available products raises questions about supply chain issues, regulatory challenges, and the company’s strategic direction in a competitive landscape.

For more information on DJI’s current offerings and stock status, visit Read the full story at The Verge..