In this episode of the Clemson Drone Podcast, host Joe Burgett sits down with Sean Falconer, Managing Director of Volatus Drones, to unpack the implications of tariffs and potential bans on DJI and other Chinese-made drones. With public agencies and entrepreneurs facing growing uncertainty, the conversation explores viable, non-Chinese drone alternatives and what decision-makers need to consider before making the switch. 

Sean shares insights into sensor specifications critical for mapping and photogrammetry work, including megapixels, sensor size, mechanical shutters, and thermal resolution, and how these features compare across platforms. The discussion highlights standout models like the ACSL Soten, ideaForge Nitra, and Ascent Spirit, emphasizing flight times, IP ratings, camera specs, and payload flexibility. 

Sean and Joe also discuss the hidden costs of subscription-based features and underscore the value of strong warranties, responsive customer support, and water-resistant builds for real-world operations. For drone entrepreneurs and professionals navigating the evolving regulatory landscape, Sean’s advice is simple: do your homework, get hands-on with demos, and choose equipment based on the application, not brand name.

About Sean Falconer

Sean has been in the drone industry since 2014, starting his first company as a drone service provider. This business morphed into hardware sales with the founding of Empire Drone, which was then acquired by Volatus Aerospace in 2023 and rebranded as Volatus Drones.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Defense Reauthorization Act
• DJI Drones
• Autel Robotics
• ACSL Soten Drone
• Wingtra Drones
• UAV Tech
• idea Forge Tech 
• Inspired Flight
• Ascent Aerosystems Spirit

--

Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone: 

• ClemsonDrone.com
• Facebook: Clemson Drone
• LinkedIn: Clemson Drone
• Instagram: Clemson Drone Course
  
  

Contact Sean Falconer | Volatus Drones: 

• Website: www.volatusdrones.com
• Email: [email protected] 
• Linkedin: SD Falconer