Four of the world’s top drone makers – DJI, 3D Robotics, Parrot SA and GoPro Inc. – have just announced the creation of an advocacy group called “The Drone Manufacturers Alliance”, which aims to lobby for policies that create a practical regulatory framework for, and promote innovation and safety, in the drone industry.

All four companies were previously members of the Small UAV coalition, which also saw the participation of many smaller players. It was the main lobbying group for drone makers since being launched in 2014, but now the ‘big four’ have apparently pulled out of it. However, bigger tech names associated with the industry, including Google X, Amazon Prime Air, AirMap, Intel and others, are still there.

“There are significant economic and social benefits to drone operations in the U.S., and industry must work with policymakers to ensure a safe environment for flying,” said the members of the new alliance said in a statement. “The Drone Manufacturers Alliance believes a carefully balanced regulatory framework requires input from all stakeholders and must recognize the value and necessity of continued technological innovation. By highlighting innovation and emphasizing education, we intend to work with policymakers to ensure drones continue to be safely integrated into the national airspace.”

The alliance members didn’t reveal why they’d pulled out of the Small UAV Coalition, but it seems likely that the group wasn’t doing enough to represent the interest of drone makers themselves. While they share certain interests, drone manufacturer’s biggest audience right now is probably the consumer market, and the issues there are somewhat different to the issues regarding commercial drone use.

If, as we think, the Drone Manufacturer Coalition is more focused on consumer issues and the Small UAV Coalition continues to focus on commercial drones, the split will probably benefit both parties.

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