Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) refers to drone (RPA) operations where the remote pilot cannot maintain direct unaided visual contact with the aircraft throughout the flight. In Australia, BVLOS operations are considered high-complexity and require specific approval from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) beyond standard operating conditions.
BVLOS vs VLOS #
Standard Australian drone operations must be conducted within Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) — meaning the pilot can see the aircraft with the naked eye at all times. BVLOS intentionally moves beyond this boundary, enabling the drone to fly further, longer, or behind obstacles out of the pilot’s direct view. This unlocks significant operational capability but also introduces greater complexity and risk that must be carefully managed.
When Is BVLOS Approval Required? #
Any operation where the remote pilot cannot continuously observe the aircraft with their own unaided eyes falls into BVLOS territory. Common scenarios include:
- Long-range infrastructure inspections (pipelines, powerlines, rail corridors)
- Large-scale agricultural operations across wide properties
- Automated delivery operations
- Search and rescue missions across extended terrain
- Monitoring operations where the aircraft flies beyond ridgelines or around structures
In all these cases, the operator must hold a Remote Operator’s Certificate (ReOC) from CASA and must obtain specific BVLOS approval before conducting operations. Standard excluded category operations do not permit BVLOS.
How to Get BVLOS Approval in Australia #
BVLOS is not a standard approval — it requires a detailed application to CASA demonstrating how risks will be managed. Operators typically need to:
- Hold a current ReOC (Remote Operator’s Certificate)
- Submit a safety case to CASA outlining the operation, aircraft, airspace, detect-and-avoid methods, and risk mitigations
- Demonstrate technical means for maintaining situational awareness (e.g., ADS-B, radar, ground-based observers, or automated detect-and-avoid systems)
- Potentially coordinate with air traffic control (ATC) if operating in controlled airspace
- Comply with any NOTAM or airspace conditions issued for the operation
CASA evaluates BVLOS applications on a case-by-case basis. Approval may be limited to specific geographic areas, altitudes, times of day, or aircraft types.
Technology Requirements for BVLOS #
Because the pilot cannot see the aircraft directly, BVLOS operations typically require technology to maintain situational awareness and manage collision risk:
- Detect and Avoid (DAA) systems: Onboard sensors or external infrastructure to detect other aircraft and take evasive action
- ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast): Allows the drone’s position to be tracked and for it to detect other ADS-B-equipped aircraft
- Ground Control Station (GCS): A robust command-and-control link with reliable telemetry and redundancy
- Failsafe systems: Automated return-to-home or emergency landing capabilities in the event of link loss
BVLOS and the Future of Drone Operations in Australia #
BVLOS is widely seen as the next frontier for commercial drone use in Australia. CASA has been progressively developing frameworks to support scalable BVLOS operations, including work on Remote ID standards and integration with the broader airspace management system. Industries such as mining, agriculture, logistics, and emergency services stand to benefit significantly from mature BVLOS frameworks.
Practical Implications for Operators #
- Do not attempt BVLOS operations under excluded category conditions — this is a serious safety and regulatory violation.
- Start the BVLOS approval process early — CASA assessments can take considerable time.
- Engage a consultant or aviation lawyer experienced in CASA approvals if you are new to the process.
- Ensure your ReOC operations manual specifically covers BVLOS procedures.
- Always file a NOTAM for BVLOS operations where required by your approval conditions.
Relevant Regulation #
BVLOS operations in Australia are regulated under the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998 (CASR), Part 101, and are subject to conditions set by CASA through the ReOC and specific BVLOS approval process.
Always verify current regulations with CASA directly at casa.gov.au/drones. Regulations can change and this entry is provided for general reference only — it does not constitute legal advice.