Regulatory Expertise
FAA-approved BVLOS operations, including Part 107 waivers, COAs, and Section 44807 exemptions.
Long-Range Efficiency
Drones replace crewed aircraft for inspections and disaster response – covering vast areas at lower cost and risk.
Leading the Way in Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Flight
One of Drone America’s core competencies and technological focus areas is Beyond Visual Line of Sight operations. BVLOS refers to flying drones at distances where the pilot can no longer see the aircraft with the naked eye – often many miles away. Mastering BVLOS is crucial for unlocking the full potential of UAS, and Drone America is proud to be an industry leader in this arena.
Detect-and-Avoid (DAA) Systems
In practical terms, BVLOS flight allows a drone to cover much greater distances than a standard line-of-sight operation. This capability is essential for tasks like long linear inspections (pipeline or railway surveys), wide-area searches (looking for a person over a vast wilderness), and delivery routes that extend beyond the horizon. Instead of relying on a human observer to watch the drone, we employ technology – such as onboard cameras, detect-and-avoid systems, and air traffic coordination – to maintain situational awareness and safety.
FAA Exemptions and Waivers
Because BVLOS operations are highly regulated, Drone America has worked diligently with the FAA to secure approvals for specific missions. Through this effort, we have successfully obtained Part 333 waivers and special Certificates of Authorization (COAs) that enabled previous BVLOS flights in designated locations under approved conditions.
Additionally we hold an exemption under Section 44807 which has permitted us to operate larger drones in scenarios that would otherwise have been prohibited. These approvals were earned by demonstrating robust risk mitigations – such as having trained crews, reliable command and control links, real-time tracking, and safety procedures to handle any contingency. Our experience navigating the FAA process means we understand how to do BVLOS by the book, legally and safely.
Detect-and-Avoid (DAA) Systems
We integrate systems like Iris Automation’s Casia optical detect-and-avoid on applicable drones, which use computer vision to spot other aircraft and take evasive action if needed.
Redundant Communications
For long-range missions, we use a combination of communication links (radio frequency, cellular, or satellite) to ensure we never lose contact with our UAV. If one link degrades, an automatic failover switches to a backup. This redundancy is crucial for maintaining control during BVLOS.
GPS and Navigation Reliability
Our drones carry multiple GPS/GNSS receivers and an inertial navigation system, so even if GPS signal is weak in remote areas, the aircraft can still navigate accurately. Geofencing is used to keep the drone within approved areas. In case of any link loss, the drone is pre-programmed to safely return to home or loiter in place.
Operational Expertise
Perhaps most importantly, Drone America brings operational know-how to BVLOS. We plan missions meticulously, coordinating with air traffic control when required, and often conducting rehearsal flights or simulations. Our pilots are specially trained for BVLOS scenarios, which involve instrument flying skills akin to those of manned aircraft pilots. We have deployed visual observers or chase aircraft for added safety during authorized experimental BVLOS flights, even when not strictly required, to gather data and ensure everything runs smoothly. This depth of preparation and professionalism has allowed us to carry out previous BVLOS missions with a high degree of confidence and safety.
Why BVLOS Matters
BVLOS capability is what truly “revolutionizes UAS operations,” as it enables drones to take on missions traditionally done by manned aircraft – often at lower cost and risk. For example, inspecting dozens of miles of power lines would take a crewed helicopter many hours (and expose a pilot to risk); a BVLOS-enabled drone can do it autonomously and safely.
During natural disasters, BVLOS drones can survey vast impact areas when roads are blocked, getting aid to where it’s needed faster. Drone America has previously secured BVLOS approvals for specific missions, demonstrating our ability to provide nationwide operations that aren’t limited by distance: we can mobilize to help a state or region with wide-area drone coverage as needed.
Our ongoing involvement in FAA programs (like IPP/BEYOND) keeps us at the cutting edge of BVLOS advancements. We continually contribute to the development of standards and best practices for BVLOS through these partnerships. This ensures that not only do we comply with current regulations, but we are helping shape future rules that will make routine BVLOS flights more accessible.
Going the Extra Mile with Advanced BVLOS Capabilities
BVLOS operations are a cornerstone of Drone America’s technological capabilities. We have invested in the right approvals, equipment, and skills to fly drones safely over long distances. This translates into a unique value for our clients: we can get drones to where you need data or eyes, no matter how far. By choosing Drone America, you’re working with a provider that can truly go the extra mile (or ten) to accomplish your mission.