FCC Revokes Authorization for HoverAir’s Transforming Drone
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has effectively halted HoverAir’s operations in the United States by pulling the authorization for the HoverAir Versa, a camera that can be converted into a drone with an additional “Flight Kit.” This action occurred just a mere three days after its release on the crowdfunding platform Indiegogo.
HoverAir has informed its backers that they will only receive shipments of the camera itself in the United States due to “a few remaining logistics updates,” which seems to suggest regulatory issues. Evidence for this arises as the FCC’s database no longer lists the HoverAir Versa, hinting at a possible withdrawal of its authorization.
Initially, the HoverAir Versa did receive authorization from the FCC on August 9th; however, the approval strictly pertained to its role as a camera, not its potential as a drone. Zero Zero Robotics, the company behind HoverAir, asserted to the FCC that the camera should not face distribution prohibitions because the company is not included on the FCC’s Covered List related to cameras.
Nevertheless, all manufacturers are inherently subject to the FCC’s covered list concerning drones and critical drone components, including cameras. Therefore, if HoverAir’s camera authorization is now rescinded, it jeopardizes the import, marketing, and selling of both the camera and the “Flight Kit” accessory in the US.
As a result, the Indiegogo page for HoverAir no longer provides the option for US customers to select the “Flight Kit.” Despite this, the site continues to allow purchases of the camera while the module appears available to customers outside the US when accessing the page from a non-US IP address, such as from Canada.
This situation mirrors a previous instance last December when HoverAir had issues obtaining certification for the HoverAir Aqua, a waterproof drone. It led to prolonged delays and communication lapses with backers. HoverAir has not yet clarified whether it will expedite refunds for buyers affected by this recent development.
Attempts to acquire an official statement from the FCC regarding the situation have been unsuccessful.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theverge.com.