I too am experiencing similar difficulties with AirDrop subsequent to updating to iOS/iPadOS 26.2. You (we) may have encountered a bug...
I have one iPad (iPad #1 using AppleID #1) that is unable to AirDrop to one other iPad (iPad #2 using AppleID #2). However iPad #1 can still receive AirDrop from iPad #2 without issue - and similarly can freely AirDrop between iPad #1 and iPhone #1 (using AppleID #1) and iPhone #2 (using AppleID #2). iPad #2 has no such issues with unidirectional AirDrop between these users or associated devices. All devices are using the same WiFi network.
- iPad #1 (AppleID #1) >>> iPad #2 (AppleID #2) ❌
- iPad #1 (AppleID #1) <<< iPad #2 (AppleID #2) ✅
- iPad #1 (AppleID #1) >>> iPhone #1 (AppleID #1) ✅
- iPad #1 (AppleID #1) <<< iPhone #1 (AppleID #1) ✅
Should your problem remain unresolved - and you have a consistent and repeatable issue - you should submit a Bug Report via Apple's Product Feedback portal:
Feedback - Apple
When submitting your Bug Report, please ensure that you include details of your iPad model and installed version of iPadOS within the body-text of your report along with details of the problem. Do not rely upon the pick-list - as this rarely includes the current version of iPadOS.
Every Bug Report counts. Unless reports are submitted (with adequate detail), Apple may not assign resources to investigate and correct the issue.
In addition [i.e., not as a substitute] to submitting a Bug Report, you might also consider seeking assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page; you can initiate and manage your support cases from Apple devices using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:
https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044