Commercial BVLOS Drone Operations: A New Era of Flight 🚀
Senior Associate Copy Editor
Commercial BVLOS drone ops: A new era of flight! FAA approvals, innovative tech, & efficiency gains. Click to learn more!
Commercial BVLOS Drone Operations: A New Era of Flight 🚀: Taking Off into the Future
The drone industry is rapidly evolving, and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations are at the forefront of this transformation. Recent developments, from new FAA authorizations to innovative drone platforms, signal a paradigm shift in how we utilize unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for commercial purposes. These advancements promise increased efficiency, reduced costs, and access to previously unreachable areas. The following insights, gleaned from recent YouTube videos, offer a glimpse into this exciting new era of flight.
Key Takeaways from Recent BVLOS Developments
FAA Approvals Pave the Way: The FAA’s authorization of commercial BVLOS operations without visual observers for companies like Zipline and Wing Aviation marks a significant milestone. This signals a move toward more routine BVLOS operations under Part 135, potentially streamlining the approval process and opening doors for wider adoption.
Regulatory Framework Taking Shape: The anticipated Part 108 regulations, expected by September 2025, will formalize BVLOS operations, establishing clear guidelines and certification standards for remote pilots. Public comment periods offer crucial opportunities for industry stakeholders to shape these regulations.
Technological Innovation Drives Progress: Companies like RigiTech are developing specialized drones, such as the Eiger platform, designed for long-range BVLOS deliveries. These advancements address the challenges of autonomous navigation and reliable connectivity, key factors in scaling BVLOS operations.
Security Concerns and Mitigation: The Countering CCP Drones Act, while aiming to address national security concerns, raises questions about the potential impact on commercial drone operations. Balancing security with industry growth remains a critical challenge.
Global Perspective on BVLOS: International regulatory approaches to BVLOS operations vary, with some countries adopting more permissive frameworks. Understanding these diverse approaches can inform the development of effective and harmonized regulations.
BVLOS: Charting the Course Ahead
The convergence of regulatory progress and technological innovation is creating a fertile ground for the expansion of commercial BVLOS drone operations. As Part 108 takes shape and companies continue to refine drone technology, we can expect to see a surge in BVLOS applications across various sectors. From package delivery and infrastructure inspection to precision agriculture and emergency response, the potential applications are vast and transformative. However, navigating the evolving regulatory landscape and addressing security concerns will be crucial for realizing the full potential of BVLOS flight.
Ready for Takeoff?
This is just a preview of the exciting developments unfolding in the world of commercial BVLOS drone operations. Scroll down to watch the video highlights and delve deeper into the insights discussed above. Prepare to witness the future of flight!
The videos are featured below
Drone News: Drone Ban CCP Update, 1st Cat 2 Drone, New DJI Model, & FAA Authorizes Commercial BVLOSPilot Institute29,449 views | 1,116 | August 2 2024 12:00:08 (115 comments)[ Read more … ]
Welcome to your weekly UAS news update we have 4 stories for you, Countering CCP Drones Act Update, First Category 2 Drone, a brand new DJI drone model and the FAA authorizes commercial BVLOS flights without a visual observer.
00:00 Introduction 00:19 Drone Ban CCP and NDAA 01:14 First Category 2 Drone 02:10 New DJI Model 02:57 FAA Authorizes Commercial BVLOS Without VO
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First up, a new senate amendment to the 2025 NDAA hopes to add the Countering CCP Drones Act. If enacted, the countering CCP language would revoke all FCC approvals for DJI and Autel products, effectively banning new mo dels and grounding current fleets. The NDAA still has to be voted on by the Senate, but the addition of the Countering CCP language would align the House of Representatives NDAA bill and the Senate bill on the issue. Now is a great time to reach out to your representatives and senators as we near the election to let them know this language would devastate our industry and reduce Public Safety’s ability to effectively save lives. We’ll update you as this progresses.
Next up, the first Category 2 Drone has hit the DOC List! The DJI Matrice 3D and 3DT are now approved for operations over people under categories 2 and 3 using the AVSS parachute system! If you’re unfamiliar with the Matrice 3D, it’s DJI’s Dock 2 aircraft. Both of the Matrice 3D and 3DT are variable categories between cat 2 and cat 3 depending on the winds. More approvals should begin to hit the DOC list as AVSS tests more parachutes!
Next, there are some DJI leaks for a new drone! The DJI Neo hit the FCC database this week, showing a 2S, 1435mAh battery. According to DroneXL, DJI follows a “30% Rule” in battery to drone weight, suggesting the drone will weigh about 170g. Leaked pictures also show a possible prototype similar to a DJI Mini-series drone. Currently, there are no leaked specs for the drone and we can’t verify the leaked images are indeed of this model. We’ll keep you updated when we see more!
Last up, the FAA has finally authorized the first commercial drone operation beyond visual line of sight without using a visual observer. The approval goes to Zipline and Wing Aviation. I’m guessing this is an approval without a waiver under part 135 since other operators have been able to do this under part 107 waivers. The FAA stated that companies are sharing planned flight routes with other authorized airspace users by using Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) systems. We are still expecting to see a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) later this year that would normalize BVLOS operations for drones.
Finally, a quick Community update. We have our July Drone photo contest winner! This month’s winner is Derek Paulsen, with his photo of a “Beautiful Mountain Lake Outside Glacier National Park”. Congratulations to Derek, who will receive a custom made pilot institute trophy and a $250 gift card. We’ll have another contest in August, so stay tuned for those details.
That’s it for now, have a great weekend, and we’ll see you on Monday for the Live!
Upcoming Changes to Operating a Drone Beyond the Visual Line of Sight (YDQA EP 63)Drone Launch Academy5,267 views | 137 | May 30 2024 13:00:03 (23 comments)[ Read more … ]
Today, we tackle an exciting and timely topic: upcoming changes to operating drones beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS) from a commercial perspective. David discusses the recent signing of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 by the president on May 16th. This act sets the stage for significant changes in BVLOS operations, with a final rule expected by September 2025. This new rule will streamline the process for commercial drone operators, eliminating the need for special exemptions.
David provides detailed insights into the legislative process, including the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) set for December 2024, and the public comment period that follows. He explains how this process mirrors the introduction of Part 107 and Remote ID regulations. The upcoming Part 108 will outline the requirements for BVLOS operations, including new certification standards for remote pilots.
These changes are set to revolutionize the drone industry, opening up numerous applications such as drone deliveries, pipeline inspections, and security monitoring. David emphasizes the importance of public feedback in shaping these regulations and encourages drone pilots to participate in the upcoming comment period.
For more details and to stay updated on these developments, check out the links provided. If you have any drone-related questions, visit ydqa.io or join our Drone Launch Connect community at dronelaunchacademy.com. Until next time, see you in the sky!
________ If you want to dive deeper into Drone Launch Academy and level up your drone skills, here are some links to some of the online drone courses we offer:
Part 107 Exam Prep Course- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/drone-exam-study-course/
Drone Mapping and Modeling Fundamentals- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/drone-mapping-and-modeling-fundamentals/
Aerial Video A to Z- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/aerial-video-a-to-z/
RigiTech’s co-founder on their Eiger #drone and #BVLOS delivery solutions | Commercial UAV Expo 2023DroneTalks442 views | 4 | September 16 2024 13:00:37 (0 comments)[ Read more … ]
At the Commercial UAV Expo 2023 in Las Vegas, David Rovira, Co-Founder and CBO of RigiTech, shared the latest innovations in drone delivery. David discusses RigiTech’s development of the Eiger platform, which is designed for long-range beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) deliveries. Navigating complex European regulations, RigiTech has made significant strides in enabling BVLOS operations, opening doors to new markets across Europe. Discover how this cutting-edge drone technology is revolutionizing the logistics and delivery sector.
Stay updated on the latest drone industry innovations by following us!
FAA Discusses Advances in Drone Regulations at Public Safety Drone SummitDroneLife TV35 views | 0 | August 15 2024 12:30:52 (0 comments)[ Read more … ]
Key Developments in Remote ID, BVLOS Flight, and Special Use Airspace The Georgia Public Safety Drone Summit, held today at Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, showcased significant advancements in drone regulations by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The sold-out event, sponsored by DRONERESPONDERS, brought together first responders, government officials, and law enforcement from across the region to discuss the future of drone operations in public safety.
FAA’s Commitment to Enhancing Drone Regulations Queron Thompson, FAA UAS Program Design and Analytics Division Manager, delivered the first keynote address, focusing on the agency’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the regulatory framework governing drone operations. “We are committed to improving the regulatory structure… and to do it in a way that doesn’t stifle innovation,” Thompson emphasized.
Advancing Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Operations Thompson provided an update on the FAA’s progress with Part 108 rulemaking, which focuses on regularizing drone flight beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). The FAA has been developing these regulations for several years, recognizing the potential of BVLOS operations to transform various industries, including public safety.
Last year, the FAA issued a series of groundbreaking waivers designed to facilitate commercial BVLOS operations. These waivers serve as templates, allowing companies to operate drones beyond the pilot’s line of sight under specific conditions. The agency is now preparing to release a rulemaking that could significantly expand commercial BVLOS operations. Once enacted, this rule could revolutionize applications such as Drone as First Responder (DFR), where drones provide critical situational awareness and deliver life-saving equipment to inaccessible areas.
Addressing Special Use Airspace and cUAS Technology In addition to BVLOS, the FAA is also working on Part 2209, which pertains to the establishment and modification of Special Use Airspace (SUA) for drone operations. This regulation is essential for managing airspace in areas where operations require restricted or controlled environments, such as military training zones or critical infrastructure sites.
Thompson also acknowledged the growing need for expanded access to counter-unmanned aircraft systems (cUAS) technology. Law enforcement agencies require effective tools to protect critical infrastructure, such as prisons, from rogue drones. However, current regulations limit the authority of these agencies to deploy cUAS technology. Thompson assured attendees, “We hear you and we are working on it,” emphasizing the FAA’s support for expanding cUAS capabilities while ensuring that new technologies do not interfere with other transportation operations. “We fully support the expansion of capabilities to our partners, [while] ensuring that the cure is not worse than the disease,” Thompson stated.
Looking Ahead The FAA’s ongoing efforts in advancing drone regulations are crucial for the future of public safety and commercial drone operations. As the agency continues to develop and implement rules for Remote ID, BVLOS, and Special Use Airspace, the potential for drones to enhance emergency response and other critical operations will only grow. The Georgia Public Safety Drone Summit provided a valuable platform for discussing these developments and their implications for the industry.
BVLOS around the world and the future of drone regulationPercepto – Autonomous Drones3,668 views | 46 | February 7 2022 18:38:45 (4 comments)[ Read more … ]
What if remotely operated autonomous drone flights didn’t require special approvals? In this video, Neta Gliksman, VP of Policy and Government Affairs at Percepto, answers just that. Learn about regulatory standards around the world and Percepto’s vision for the BVLOS future in this video, aired at the FAA Symposium Episode IV.
Learn more about drone-in-a-box regulation here: https://percepto.co/drone-regulation/
Elsight – Scaling BVLOS Autonomous UAV Operations – the new era of UASElsight – Drone Fleet Connectivity Confidence 336 views | 1 | August 9 2021 11:00:34 (1 comments)[ Read more … ]
In this video, Elsight’s CEO Yoav Amitai and FlightOps CEO Shay Levy discuss how to scale BVLOS autonomous UAV operations in the new era of Unmanned Arial Services.
2020 has given us many major milestones for the UAS and UAV ecosystem, with manufacturers expanding their offerings to support the needs of the market. Regulators have globally opened up the skies for beyond visual line of sight flights, and many use-cases have emerged, including, but not limited to Covid. This is transforming autonomous BVLOS UAV operations with whole solutions for the ever-growing challenges.
The autonomy and connectivity challenges are deemed to be the barrier to scaling autonomous beyond visual line of sight operations to commercial levels, especially in the eyes of the operators, regulators, and manufacturers.
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Watch More Videos: ▶️The Success Story of Elsight & Gadfin Aerologistics Systems https://youtu.be/rvjG0ms0iVg
▶️Halo “”Always-On”” Connectivity Beyond Visual Line of Sight https://youtu.be/UpHL230lZRU
▶️Halo by Elsight Delivers Reliable High Bandwidth https://youtu.be/uO6RJJnoLKs
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About the Author
Patryk Alexander is an associate copy editor at 4kVideoDrones.com, where he sharpens articles and helps keep the website's content clean and error-free. With a background in creative writing, Patryk brings a unique perspective to his editing that helps make 4kVideoDrones.com's content engaging and informative. When he's not editing or writing, Patryk enjoys spending time with his family and exploring the great outdoors.
