What is BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight)?
BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) operations are drone flights where the pilot or visual observer doesn't maintain unaided visual contact with the aircraft. Requires a Part 107.31 waiver in the US.
BVLOS unlocks the most economically valuable drone use cases — long-range pipeline inspection, delivery, agricultural scouting at scale, large-area mapping — because the operational economics of VLOS-only operations are limiting. A pilot maintaining VLOS can survey perhaps a quarter mile of pipeline; a BVLOS-permitted operator can survey miles per flight.
BVLOS in the US currently requires an individual Part 107.31 waiver from the FAA. Approval requires demonstrating an equivalent level of safety to VLOS — typically through detect-and-avoid systems, ground-based observers along the flight path, or cellular-based command-and-control with low-latency telemetry.
The FAA's proposed Part 108 rulemaking would create a new operating framework for routine BVLOS operations, but as of 2026 it has not been finalized.
What this means for pilots
If you need BVLOS operationally — utility inspection, agriculture, delivery — start the Part 107.31 waiver process early. Lead time is typically 90+ days and approval requires documented operating procedures, equipment capabilities, and risk mitigation. Most working pilots never need BVLOS.
FAQ
Can recreational pilots fly BVLOS?
No. 49 USC 44809 requires VLOS. There is no recreational waiver path.
Does cellular control count as BVLOS?
Yes if the pilot loses unaided visual contact with the aircraft. The control technology doesn't change the regulatory category.
When will Part 108 finalize BVLOS?
FAA NPRM was issued in 2024; a final rule has not been published. Estimates suggest 2026–2027 finalization.
Related terms
FAA regulations change. Verify current rules at faa.gov/uas before relying on this article for flight planning. Altoa is not the FAA.