BVLOS: The Future of Commercial Drone Operations [New for 2024]

BVLOS stands for “Beyond Visual Line of Sight,” a term used to describe flights where the drone is operated beyond the direct line of sight of the pilot.

This is in contrast to VLOS (Visual Line of Sight) operations, where the drone remains within the pilot’s visual field at all times.

The FAA’s Part 107 rules prohibit BVLOS drone operations, but you can get permission to fly BVLOS by obtaining a waiver.

When the Part 107 rules first came out in 2016, it was incredibly difficult to get a BVLOS waiver. It’s still not easy, but these days it is something that many people have accomplished. And the FAA is working to make it even easier to fly BVLOS—one day, it may be possible to fly beyond the line of sight simply by using a specific drone model certified for that type of operation.

This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know about flying beyond visual line of sight, including the top applications that benefit from flying BVLOS, drones best suited for BVLOS operations, and more.

Here’s a menu in case you’d like to jump around:

• What Is BVLOS?
• The Importance of BVLOS in Drone Operations
• The Top 3 BVLOS Drones on the Market
• BVLOS Waivers
• Other Ways to Get FAA Permission to Fly BVLOS
• The FAA’s BEYOND Program
• The Future of BVLOS

What Is BVLOS?

BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) refers to any drone operation in which the drone operator can’t see the drone as it flies.

The key differences between BVLOS and VLOS are:

• Range. BVLOS allows for much greater operational range than VLOS, which is limited to the distance that the pilot can see the drone.
• Applications. BVLOS is essential for applications that require extensive coverage, like pipeline inspections, delivery services, and search and rescue operations.
• Technology. BVLOS operations typically require advanced technology, including reliable communication systems, robust navigation solutions, and enhanced safety protocols to mitigate the risks associated with flying beyond the pilot’s visual range.

The Three Visual Ranges of Drone Operations

In addition to BVLOS and VLOS there is actually a third, intermediate type of drone operation called Extended VLOS—here are all three:

1. Visual Line of Sight (VLOS)

VLOS operations require the drone to be within the direct visual line of sight of the pilot at all times.

• Applications. Used for general drone activities such as photography, short-range inspections, and recreational flying.
• Regulations. This is the most common and least restricted range, often requiring no special waivers or additional permissions.

2. Extended Visual Line of Sight (EVLOS)

EVLOS operations extend the visual line of sight through the use of visual observers who help monitor the drone’s position and surroundings.

• Applications. Suitable for operations that require more extensive coverage than VLOS but still need visual monitoring, such as medium-range inspections and agricultural surveys.
• Regulations. Requires coordination with visual observers and often needs specific operational procedures to ensure safety.

3. Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS)

BVLOS operations allow the drone to operate beyond the direct visual line of sight of the pilot, significantly extending operational range.

• Applications. Ideal for long-range tasks like infrastructure inspections, large-scale agricultural monitoring, search and rescue missions, and logistics.
• Regulations. Requires waivers and adherence to stringent safety protocols, including advanced detect-and-avoid systems and reliable communication links.

Common Challenges for BVLOS Operations—and How to Overcome Them

1. Regulatory Hurdles

• Challenge. Obtaining approval for BVLOS operations can be complex and time-consuming due to stringent safety and operational requirements.
• Solution. Engage with the FAA early in the planning process, and provide comprehensive safety cases and risk assessments. Participating in programs like the BEYOND initiative can also facilitate regulatory approval by demonstrating safe and effective BVLOS operations.*

*It should be noted that getting permission to fly BVLOS is hard and it could take months, or even years to get approval.

2. Technological Limitations

• Challenge. BVLOS operations can require advanced technology, including things like reliable communication systems, advanced detect-and-avoid technologies, and robust UTM (Uncrewed Traffic Management) systems.
• Solution. Invest in high-quality equipment and stay updated on technological advancements. Collaborate with technology providers to ensure that your systems meet regulatory standards and operational needs.

3. Safety Concerns

• Challenge. Ensuring the safety of both the drone and crewed aircraft in the same airspace is a significant challenge.
• Solution. Implement comprehensive safety protocols, including the use of detect-and-avoid systems, geo-fencing, and reliable communication links. Conduct regular training and drills to prepare for potential emergencies and ensure all personnel are well-versed in safety procedures.

4. Environmental Factors

• Challenge. Weather conditions, terrain, and other environmental factors can impact the safety and reliability of BVLOS operations.
• Solution. Use weather forecasting tools and real-time environmental monitoring systems to plan and adjust flight operations accordingly. Drones equipped with robust navigation systems and sensors can better handle adverse conditions.

The Importance of BVLOS for Commercial Drone Operations

Flying BVLOS is crucial for expanding the commercial usefulness of drones.

By allowing drones to fly beyond the operator’s line of sight, BVLOS significantly increases the potential range and operational scope of drone missions.

And this can enable a range of use cases that would not be feasible under VLOS constraints, such as long-range infrastructure inspections, large-scale agricultural monitoring, and widespread environmental surveys.

Applications and Industries Benefiting from BVLOS

Here are some key sectors benefiting from BVLOS operations, along with expanded details on their specific applications.

1. Agriculture

BVLOS drones are used for precision agriculture, allowing farmers to monitor crop health, assess irrigation needs, and detect pest infestations over large areas. They also enable efficient field mapping and yield estimation.

Additional use cases include:

• Soil analysis
• Crop spraying
• Livestock monitoring

2. Infrastructure Inspection

Utilities and infrastructure companies are using BVLOS drones to inspect pipelines, power lines, and bridges. This allows for continuous monitoring and rapid identification of issues, reducing the risk of outages and improving maintenance efficiency.

Additional use cases include:

• Inspecting railways
• Roadways
• Construction sites

3. Public Safety

BVLOS drones play a critical role in public safety operations, including search and rescue missions, disaster response, and firefighting. These drones can quickly cover large areas and provide real-time data to first responders.

Additional use cases include:

• Law enforcement surveillance
• Hazardous material assessment
• Emergency medical deliveries

4. Logistics and Delivery

Companies like Amazon and UPS are exploring BVLOS technology for package delivery, which can improve delivery times and reach remote or hard-to-access areas.

Additional use cases include:

• Medical supply transport
• Food delivery
• E-commerce logistics

5. Environmental Monitoring

BVLOS drones are used to monitor environmental changes, track wildlife, and conduct scientific research in remote areas. This application is vital for conservation efforts and understanding ecological dynamics.

Additional use cases include:

• Forest health monitoring
• Water quality assessment
• Pollution tracking

6. Surveying and Mapping

BVLOS drones are extensively used in surveying and mapping, providing detailed topographic data for land development, mining, and urban planning.

Additional use cases include:

• Archaeological site mapping
• Geological surveys
• Infrastructure planning

7. Oil and Gas

BVLOS drones inspect pipelines and offshore platforms, ensuring the integrity and safety of critical infrastructure.

Additional use cases include:

• Monitoring of drilling sites
• Spill response

8. Telecommunications

BVLOS drones are used to inspect and maintain telecommunication towers and infrastructure, improving efficiency and reducing the need for dangerous manual inspections.

Additional use cases include:

• Network coverage analysis
• Emergency communication restoration

9. Real Estate

Real estate companies use BVLOS drones to capture aerial footage of properties and large developments, providing comprehensive views and assessments.

Additional use cases include:

• Property management
• Land assessment

10. Maritime Operations

BVLOS drones assist in maritime operations such as monitoring shipping routes, inspecting vessels, and conducting search and rescue missions at sea.

Additional use cases include:

• Pollution monitoring
• Illegal fishing detection

11. Wildlife Conservation

BVLOS drones help in tracking and monitoring wildlife, conducting anti-poaching patrols, and managing wildlife reserves.

Additional use cases include:

• Habitat mapping
• Population studies

12. Insurance

BVLOS drones are used for damage assessment and claims processing, especially after natural disasters, providing insurers with detailed and timely information.

Additional use cases include:

• Risk assessment
• Insurance adjustments
• Policy verification

13. Scientific Research

Researchers use BVLOS drones to gather data in hard-to-reach areas, supporting studies in fields such as meteorology, volcanology, and glaciology.

Additional use cases include:

• Climate change monitoring
• Ecological studies

14. Mining

BVLOS drones provide detailed mapping and monitoring of mining sites, improving operational efficiency and safety.

Additional use cases include:

• Resource estimation
• Environmental impact assessments

15. Military and Defense

BVLOS drones are used for surveillance, reconnaissance, and tactical operations, providing critical intelligence and operational support.

Additional use cases include:

• Border security
• Training exercises

The Top 3 BVLOS Drones on the Market

The best drones for BVLOS operations aren’t just those that can fly long ranges.

They’re also drones that can be housed in charging stations (also called nests). These drones—commonly called drone-in-a-box solutions—can stay on location for regular monitoring without the need for a pilot present.

Keep reading to see our picks for the top three BVLOS drones on the market.

1. Skydio X2

The Skydio X2 is a robust commercial drone equipped with advanced AI for autonomous flight, making it suitable for BVLOS operations in which the pilot isn’t physically present. Its autonomous navigation capabilities and obstacle avoidance systems are particularly useful for complex environments.

Features and specs:

• Flight time. Up to 35 minutes.
• Transmission range. 6.2 miles (10 km).
• Payload capacity. Includes 4K60P HDR camera and FLIR thermal camera.
• Durability. Rugged design with IP54 rating for adverse weather conditions.

BVLOS features:

• Advanced AI-driven obstacle avoidance for safe long-range operations
• Skydio Dock for remote operations

2. Percepto AIM (Autonomous Inspection and Monitoring)

The Percepto AIM offers a complete drone-in-a-box solution tailored for autonomous BVLOS operations. It’s designed for industrial and critical infrastructure inspections, providing continuous monitoring and automated reporting.

Features and specs:

• Flight time. Up to 50 minutes.
• Autonomous operation. Fully automated takeoff, landing, and charging with its docking station.
• Payload capacity. Equipped with advanced visual and thermal cameras.
• Weather resistance. Built to withstand harsh environmental conditions.

BVLOS features:

• Real-time monitoring and data transmission through secure cloud services
• Charging station to enable remote operations

3. DJI Matrice 30

The DJI Matrice 30 is a versatile drone designed for industrial applications, including BVLOS operations. It features advanced obstacle avoidance systems and long-range transmission capabilities, making it ideal for infrastructure inspections, search and rescue missions, and environmental monitoring.

Features and specs:

• Flight time. Up to 41 minutes.
• Transmission range. 9.3 miles (15 km).
• Payload capacity. Supports multiple payloads, including thermal cameras and high-resolution sensors.
• Durability. IP55 rating for weather resistance.

BVLOS features:

• DJI Dock for remote operations
• Integrated RTK modules and the DJI Pilot app enhance navigation and control over long distances

BVLOS Waivers

As we mentioned above, the FAA’s Part 107 rules prohibit BVLOS operations. (The specific section of the rules that has to do with BVLOS is 107.31—Line of Sight Aircraft Operation.)

But you can get permission from the FAA to fly BVLOS. And to do this, you have to obtain a waiver.

The process for obtaining a BVLOS waiver involves demonstrating that the operation can be conducted safely, including thorough risk assessments and implementing mitigations for potential hazards.

Getting a BVLOS waiver is a long, involved process that typically requires a lot of back and forth with the FAA. But it is possible to do it.

The waiver process involves:

• Providing detailed operational plans
• Demonstrating the reliability of the communication systems
• Ensuring the drone has appropriate detect-and-avoid capabilities
• Outlining procedures for handling lost-link scenarios

A key part of the waiver process is safety and risk mitigation.

This involves showing the FAA that you can maintain a level of safety equivalent to or greater than the level achieved under standard VLOS operations, including things like:

• Implementing geo-fencing to avoid restricted areas
• Using visual observers or advanced sensors to monitor the drone’s surroundings
• Establishing communication protocols to ensure constant contact with air traffic control when necessary

Want to See All the BVLOS Waivers the FAA Has Granted?

Seeing other people’s waivers can help you understand what goes into a successful waiver application.

You can view all of the BVLOS waivers the FAA has issued by:

• Going to this page on the FAA’s website
• Searching “Part 107.31”

Other Ways to Get Permission to Fly BVLOS

While obtaining a Part 107 waiver is the most common method for getting permission to fly BVLOS, there are other ways you can get it.

But unfortunately these avenues won’t be available for most drone service providers,, since they require working for a public safety agency, starting a small airline (i.e., drone delivery company), or getting involved in an FAA testing site or project.

Here are the alternate ways you can get permission to fly BVLOS.

1. Getting a COA (Certificates of Waiver or Authorization)

Available to: Public safety agencies like police and fire departments

Here are the steps for getting a COA:

• Eligibility check. Verify that your agency qualifies as a public entity eligible for a COA.
• Application preparation. Prepare an application detailing the proposed BVLOS operation, including safety measures, intended use, and risk mitigations.
• Safety and risk mitigation. Demonstrate how the operation will maintain public safety, including communication and coordination with air traffic control (ATC).
• Submit and await approval. Submit the application through the FAA’s COA application portal. Approval times vary, but expect several weeks to months.

Learn more about choosing between operating under a COA or under the Part 107 rules in this guide for public safety agencies.

Credit: Parrot

A Quick Note on Tactical BVLOS (TBVLOS) Waivers

In an emergency and need to fly BVLOS for a public safety operation?

A TBVLOS waiver allows public safety agencies to fly drones BVLOS in specific tactical or emergency situations. This type of waiver is designed to provide flexibility and enhance the effectiveness of drones in critical operations such as search and rescue, disaster response, and law enforcement activities.

Important note: To get a TBVLOS waiver you have to have a COA.

Here are resources to help you get started:

• A Drone Pilot’s Guide to TBVLOS Waivers for Public Safety Agencies
• Emergency Situations—SGI (Special Government Interest) Page on the FAA’s website

2. Part 135 Certification for Drone Delivery

Available to: Drone delivery companies

Part 135 certification allows operators to function as small airlines, opening the door to BVLOS operations for delivery purposes. At the moment, only Wing, Amazon, UPS, and Zipline have a Part 135.

The FAA has said that the Part 135 is the only path for companies to offer drone delivery BVLOS—and getting one is a long, expensive process.

For that reason, companies like DroneUp and Flytrex have been opting to do drone delivery VLOS.

Here are the steps for getting a Part 135 certificate:

• Application process. Prepare a comprehensive application including an operational plan, safety measures, maintenance protocols, and pilot qualifications. This process is resource-intensive and can be costly, requiring significant time and financial investment.
• Demonstrate compliance. Prove compliance with all safety and operational standards. This involves rigorous testing and documentation.
• Submit application and await approval. Submit your application to the FAA. The approval process can be lengthy, often taking over a year.

Credit: Zipline

3. Participate in the FAA’s BEYOND Program

The BEYOND program aims to address remaining challenges in BVLOS operations, particularly for complex use cases.

The top aim of the BEYOND program is to make it easier for drone pilots to fly BVLOS. The program has lots of test sites throughout the U.S., where BVLOS operations are being tested all the time.

And doing tests at these sites can also help BVLOS waiver applicants collect the data they need to submit a successful application.

Credit: Choctaw Nation / BEYOND Program

The FAA’s BEYOND Program

The BEYOND program is the FAA’s latest initiative focused on expanding the integration of drones into the National Airspace System (NAS), with a significant focus on Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations.

It was launched in 2020 as a continuation of the UAS Integration Pilot Program (IPP), with the aim of addressing the challenges and complexities associated with routine BVLOS flights.

The name of the program signals the importance of BVLOS—BEYOND is not an acronym, but an allusion to flying beyond visual line of sight.

 

Here are the goals of the BEYOND program:

• Operational expansion. Enable more complex BVLOS operations that are scalable and can be routinely conducted across various sectors.
• Data collection and analysis. Gather extensive data on BVLOS operations to support the development of performance-based regulations and standards.
• Community engagement. Engage with local communities and stakeholders to address concerns and ensure that BVLOS operations can be safely integrated into everyday life.
• Technological advancements. Foster innovation by testing new technologies that enhance the safety and reliability of BVLOS flights, such as detect-and-avoid systems and robust communication protocols.

Past FAA Programs Focused on BVLOS Testing

The FAA has spearheaded several programs that have laid the groundwork for the BEYOND initiative, focusing on the safe integration and testing of BVLOS operations.

Pathfinder Program

The Pathfinder Program, launched in 2015, was an early initiative by the FAA to explore the viability and safety of BVLOS operations. Partnering with industry leaders, the program aimed to demonstrate the capabilities and address the challenges associated with flying drones beyond the operator’s line of sight.

Key objectives:

• Test and validate technologies that enable safe BVLOS operations.
• Gather data to inform future regulatory frameworks.

Notable achievements:

• Successful demonstrations of BVLOS operations in various use cases, including infrastructure inspections and agricultural monitoring.

UAS Integration Pilot Program (IPP)

The UAS Integration Pilot Program (IPP) was a significant step forward in advancing BVLOS operations. Launched in 2017, the IPP aimed to foster collaboration between state, local, and tribal governments, as well as private sector entities, to test and evaluate the integration of drones into the NAS.

Key objectives:

• Enable complex BVLOS operations to support various sectors, including agriculture, commerce, and public safety.
• Collect data and insights to shape future regulations and standards.

Notable achievements:

• Successful BVLOS operations in diverse environments, contributing valuable data to inform regulatory developments.
• The program concluded with numerous success stories, showcasing the potential of BVLOS in real-world applications.

The Future of BVLOS

The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 has significantly influenced the landscape for BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) operations in the United States.

This legislation mandates the FAA to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for BVLOS flights within the next 20 months, aiming to streamline the integration of advanced drone operations into the national airspace system.

The act includes provisions to address safety concerns, particularly the risks posed to manned low-altitude aircraft by BVLOS drones, and promotes the development of technologies to mitigate these risks.

Envisioning a Future with Less Restricted BVLOS Operations

With less restrictive BVLOS regulations, the potential applications for drones are vast.

Routine BVLOS flights could revolutionize industries such as agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and logistics by enabling continuous monitoring, rapid response, and efficient data collection over large areas.

For instance, agricultural drones could autonomously survey vast farmlands, infrastructure drones could inspect miles of pipelines without human intervention, and delivery drones could provide rapid transport of goods to remote locations.

The Importance of UTM for BVLOS

Uncrewed Traffic Management (UTM) systems are crucial for the safe and efficient management of BVLOS operations. These systems provide real-time airspace management, ensuring that drones can operate safely alongside manned aircraft.

States like Ohio and North Dakota are pioneering UTM development, with Ohio’s SkyVision and North Dakota’s Vantis leading the way. These systems enable comprehensive monitoring and control of drone traffic, facilitating safer and more reliable BVLOS operations.

The future of BVLOS operations in the U.S. looks promising, driven by regulatory advancements, technological innovations, and robust UTM systems.

As the FAA continues to implement the mandates of the Reauthorization Act of 2024 and programs like BEYOND advance, we can expect to see BVLOS drones playing an increasingly vital role across various sectors, transforming how we approach tasks that require extensive aerial coverage.