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As a drone specialist deeply immersed in the evolving landscape of Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, I’ve been closely following the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s (CAA) efforts to integrate these advanced operations into our airspace. This is a pivotal moment for the industry, promising to expand the capabilities of drone technology in unprecedented ways. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening, why it’s important, and how it impacts drone operators like us.
The term “atypical airspace” might be new to some, but it’s quickly becoming a critical concept in drone operations. It refers to areas where the risk of encounters between remotely piloted aircraft and manned aircraft is considered acceptably low. This could be due to restrictions, the nature of the airspace, or simply the lack of routine operations by manned aircraft. For BVLOS operations, which allow drones to operate beyond the operator’s line of sight, navigating atypical airspace safely and effectively is key.
The CAA is not just adapting to these changes; it’s actively shaping them. Through initiatives focused on safety, the authority is exploring how drones can operate in non-segregated, or “atypical,” airspace without increasing the risk of mid-air collisions. This involves a holistic approach, developing regulations that support the use of detect and avoid technologies and electronic conspicuity.
A cornerstone project in this effort is the Atypical Airspace BVLOS Solution (AABS); this initiative aims to demonstrate autonomous flight in industrial settings on a national scale. By enabling remote pilots to manage autonomous drones equipped with advanced sensing and mapping technologies, the project is paving the way for safe, efficient drone operations in complex environments.
For those of us operating drones, the implications are profound. The CAA’s work in this area means we’re moving towards a regulatory environment where drones can be used more flexibly and safely in a wider range of operations. However, this also means we need to be prepared to meet new standards for pilot competency, aircraft flightworthiness, and risk assessment.
The CAA has made it clear that consultation with the industry is a key part of its strategy. This is our opportunity to influence how these regulations are shaped, ensuring they’re practical for operators while maintaining the highest safety standards. Staying informed and engaged with these consultations is crucial for anyone in the BVLOS sector.
As we look to the future, the potential for drone technology in the UK is enormous. From infrastructure inspection to emergency services, the ability to operate safely in atypical airspace will open up new avenues for drone applications. But with great potential comes great responsibility. We must work closely with regulatory bodies, like the CAA, to ensure that as our capabilities expand, so too does our commitment to safety and compliance.
The journey towards fully integrated BVLOS operations in the UK’s atypical airspace is just beginning, but the direction is clear. For drone operators, staying ahead means not just keeping up with regulatory developments but actively participating in shaping the future of our industry.
For more detailed information on the CAA’s plans and how to participate in the consultation process or listen to the CAA’s podcast ( link here ), I recommend visiting their official website dedicated to drones and BVLOS operations. This is an exciting time for drone technology, and by working together, we can unlock its full potential safely and sustainably.
Tim Harris
February 14
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As a drone enthusiast you may have heard the terms VLOS, EVLOS and BVLOS, but you may be unsure of what these terms actually mean.
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The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has become increasingly popular in recent years, with a growing number of industries adopting the technology for various tasks such as aerial photography, inspection, and delivery services, among others. As the demand for UAV pilots increases, the importance of proper UAV training also becomes evident. In this blog, we’ll focus on UAV training for General Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) operations, which are one of the most common types of UAV operations.
