Key Takeaways
- New Leadership: DJI strengthens its public policy efforts with the appointment of David Hansell, an aviation policy expert.
- Focus on Advocacy: Hansell aims to enhance the regulatory framework for drones, stressing the importance of a balanced and supportive legislative landscape.
- Expansion of Government Relations: The company has also bolstered its Government Relations team by hiring Jordan Gross to explore and promote the benefits of drone technology.
- Expertise in the Field: David Hansell brings extensive experience from various prestigious roles, including his time at Facebook and the FAA.
DJI Bolsters Drone Policy Advocacy with New Hire
September 18, 2018 – In an exciting development for the drone industry, DJI, the world’s leading manufacturer of civilian drones and aerial imaging technology, has appointed David Hansell as its Public Policy Manager. With a robust background in aviation policy, Hansell joins DJI with the intent to shape drone laws and regulations that will allow America to fully reap the advantages of drone technology.
Hansell’s enthusiasm about his new role comes through as he highlights the transformative impact drones have on various sectors, including business, government, and academia. “Drones have opened up the skies for businesses, governments, nonprofits, and everyone who enjoys seeing the world from above, and the people who use drones regularly understand the importance of a strong regulatory system to support their work,” he said. His focus will be on advocating for the establishment of laws that facilitate the safe integration of drones into U.S. airspace.
A Growing Team of Experts
Hansell will collaborate with DJI’s expanding team of public policy and standards professionals, led by Vice President of Policy & Legal Affairs Brendan Schulman. Together, they aim to promote reasonable, risk-based regulations for unmanned aircraft systems while addressing safety and security concerns.
In addition to Hansell’s appointment, DJI has expanded its Government Relations team, welcoming Jordan Gross as Manager of Government Relations. Formerly affiliated with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Gross brings a wealth of experience in fostering government and external relations. His role will involve engaging with government agencies and stakeholders to highlight the benefits of drone technology and the robust security measures integrated into DJI’s products.
David Hansell’s Impressive Background
Before joining DJI, Hansell served as the Global Aviation Policy Lead for Facebook, where he focused on creating a cohesive regulatory environment for advanced drone operations. His past collaborations with civil aviation authorities and air navigation service providers worldwide have equipped him with the skills needed to address regulatory complexities in the aerospace sector.
In addition to his previous role, Hansell has held several significant positions in the field of aviation policy, including being a member of the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Drone Advisory Committee Subcommittee. He was also involved with the FAA UAS Safety Team and played a critical role in establishing the Aerospace Industries Association’s Upper Airspace Working Group.
His expertise extends to governmental roles where he previously directed Transportation Security Policy on the National Security Council, providing guidance on a variety of aviation-related matters to senior officials, including the National Security Advisor and the Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism.
A Commitment to Safety and Innovation
DJI’s strategic appointments reflect a commitment to fostering innovation in drone technology while prioritizing safety and security protocols. As the drone industry continues to grow, these efforts will not only support users but also promote a regulatory framework that is conducive to the seamless integration of drones into various sectors, allowing all stakeholders to derive maximum benefit from this rapidly evolving technology.
With experts like Hansell and Gross on board, DJI is poised to enhance its advocacy efforts for reasonable drone regulations, ensuring that the future of aviation remains bright and innovative.
