Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations are the future of commercial drone services — and currently the most tightly regulated. If you want to operate drones beyond where you can see them, here is the 2026 regulatory landscape and what it takes to get authorized.
Why BVLOS Matters
The commercial value of most drone applications is severely limited without BVLOS capability. Inspection of pipelines, utility corridors, and agricultural fields spanning thousands of acres requires flying beyond 400 feet AGL and beyond visual line of sight. The economics of drone services only work at scale when BVLOS is authorized.
The 2026 Regulatory Framework
The FAA’s BVLOS rule (Part 108) was finalized in late 2025, replacing the patchwork of waivers that previously governed BVLOS operations. The new framework establishes three tiers: Visual Line of Sight (VLOS), Extended Visual Line of Sight (EVLOS) with ground-based observers, and BVLOS with Remote ID and detect-and-avoid systems.
For standard commercial operations, you now need either a Part 107 certificate with BVLOS waiver or a Part 108 BVLOS airman certificate. The Remote ID requirement means your drone must broadcast its position via FAA-recognizable identification at all times during flight.
Detect-and-Avoid Requirements
The critical technical requirement for BVLOS is a detect-and-avoid (DAA) system that provides equivalent situational awareness to visual observation. This means ADS-B IN receivers to detect crewed aircraft, forward-looking cameras or radar for collision avoidance, and geofencing that automatically prevents entry into restricted airspace.
The DJI Matrice 350 RTK with the H20N sensor suite is the most commonly used platform for emerging BVLOS operators because it has an established DAA integration path through third-party systems like Airspek and Airspace Systems.
How to Get Authorized
Step 1: Get a Part 107 certificate with Instrument rating or Part 108 certificate. Step 2: Develop an Operations Manual that addresses every risk scenario. Step 3: Equip your aircraft with Remote ID and DAA systems that meet FAA standards. Step 4: Submit your manual to the FAA for approval. The process typically takes 6-12 months for first-time applicants.
Most successful BVLOS operators work with consultants who specialize in FAA authorization applications. The documentation requirements are extensive and the FAA reviews them thoroughly.
The Practical Path
Start with EVLOS (extended visual line of sight with ground observers) before investing in full BVLOS equipment. EVLOS authorizations are faster to obtain and significantly cheaper. Many inspection and agricultural operations work perfectly well with a team of ground observers providing extended visual coverage up to 1 mile.
Related Drone Regulations
Related guides on dronesera.com: BVLOS commercial operations guide, FAA TRUST Certificate guide, and drone flight school guide.