Operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) represent the operational frontier for commercial and public-sector drone services. They enable applications that are impractical within visual-line-of-sight (VLOS) constraints: long-range infrastructure inspection, wide-area monitoring, multi-site operations from a single control point, and rapid response over large areas.
However, BVLOS operations also raise the regulatory bar substantially. The regulatory framework for BVLOS is still evolving in most jurisdictions, but common principles are emerging.
Risk-based authorisation
Most regulatory frameworks for BVLOS are risk-based: the operator must demonstrate that the risks associated with the specific operation have been identified, assessed, and mitigated to an acceptable level. This typically involves a formal risk assessment (often using the SORA methodology in Europe), followed by the identification of mitigations and the demonstration that these mitigations are effective.
The risk assessment considers ground risk (to people and property), air risk (to other airspace users), and operational risk (to the mission and the operator). Mitigations may be technical (detect-and-avoid systems, redundant communications), procedural (restricted operating areas, contingency procedures), or organisational (crew qualifications, supervision structures).
Operational demonstration
Regulators typically require evidence that the proposed BVLOS operation has been demonstrated in realistic conditions before granting operational authorisation. This may involve flight campaigns, simulation exercises, or phased deployments that progressively expand the operational envelope as evidence of safe operation accumulates.
The documentation produced during these demonstrations—including test plans, results, deviation reports, and lessons learned—forms part of the evidence base for the authorisation application.
Evolving frameworks
The regulatory landscape for BVLOS is evolving rapidly, with new frameworks and guidance documents being issued by aviation authorities across Europe and internationally. Operators in this space must maintain current awareness of regulatory developments and be prepared to adapt their procedures and documentation as requirements change.
This regulatory evolution also creates opportunities for operators who can demonstrate compliance with emerging frameworks. Early alignment with new requirements can provide a competitive advantage in procurement processes that value regulatory readiness.
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