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BVLOS & Remote Operations

Enabling Scalable, Next-Generation RPAS Capability

Move Beyond Line of Sight. Unlock True Operational Scale.

Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations represent the next evolution of commercial drone capability.

They enable operations where the aircraft is no longer required to remain within visual observation — allowing for:

  • Long-distance missions
  • Automated and remote operations
  • Large-area coverage
  • Scalable, repeatable workflows

Uncrewed Approvals supports operators and organisations in designing, developing, and obtaining BVLOS and remote operations approvals aligned with the expectations of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

What is BVLOS?

BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) is an advanced operational approval that allows drone operations to be conducted without direct visual observation of the aircraft.

Instead, operations rely on:

  • Systems-based situational awareness
  • Detect and avoid strategies
  • Robust communication links
  • Defined operational control frameworks

BVLOS shifts drone operations from pilot-centric to system-centric operations.

What Are Remote Operations?

Remote operations extend the concept of BVLOS further, enabling:

  • Centralised control of operations
  • Operations conducted over large geographic areas
  • Reduced on-site personnel requirements
  • Integration into broader operational systems

This is where RPAS transitions into enterprise infrastructure.

What BVLOS Enables

BVLOS and remote operations unlock high-value, large-scale applications:

Linear Infrastructure

  • Powerlines
  • Pipelines
  • Rail corridors

Wide-Area Operations

  • Agriculture at scale
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Land management

Industrial & Enterprise Operations

  • Mining and resources
  • Asset inspection networks
  • Persistent surveillance

Logistics & Emerging Applications

  • Delivery concepts
  • Remote site support
  • Autonomous workflows

The Regulatory Environment

BVLOS operations are assessed under a risk-based regulatory framework.

This requires operators to demonstrate:

  • A comprehensive understanding of operational risk
  • Appropriate mitigation strategies
  • Robust systems and procedures
  • A clearly defined Concept of Operations (ConOps)

CASA is progressively evolving its approach, including:

  • Broad area approvals
  • Standardised operational models
  • Increased focus on scalable operations

Key Components of a BVLOS Operation

A BVLOS approval is built on multiple integrated systems:

Operational Design (ConOps)

  • Mission profile
  • Operational environment
  • Airspace considerations

Detect and Avoid (DAA)

  • Airspace awareness
  • Traffic separation strategies
  • Contingency procedures

Command & Control (C2)

  • Communication link reliability
  • Redundancy and failover systems

Ground Control Systems

  • Remote pilot interface
  • Monitoring and control systems

Risk Management Framework

  • Hazard identification
  • Mitigation strategies
  • Emergency procedures

Operational Documentation

  • Operations Manual updates
  • SOPs specific to BVLOS
  • Safety case or supporting justification

The BVLOS Approval Process

We provide structured support through each stage of the approval pathway:

Step 1 — Feasibility & Strategy

  • Assess operational viability
  • Define approval pathway

Step 2 — Concept of Operations (ConOps)

  • Develop a clear operational concept
  • Define systems and procedures

Step 3 — Risk & Safety Case Development

  • Identify hazards
  • Develop mitigation strategies
  • Build supporting justification

Step 4 — Documentation Development

  • Operations Manual updates
  • SOPs
  • Supporting material

Step 5 — CASA Engagement

  • Submission and interaction with CASA
  • Iteration and refinement

Step 6 — Approval & Implementation

  • Final approval
  • Operational integration

What You Get

  • Structured BVLOS operational framework
  • ConOps development
  • Risk and safety case support
  • CASA-aligned documentation
  • Strategic guidance through the approval process
  • Practical implementation support

Why Uncrewed Approvals

BVLOS is not a template-based approval — it is a designed operational system.

We bring:

  • Direct regulatory experience as a CASA delegate
  • Deep understanding of complex RPAS operations
  • Experience across multiple industries
  • A focus on practical, scalable solutions

We don’t just prepare documentation — we help you design an operation that can actually be approved and operated.

From EVLOS to BVLOS

For most operators, BVLOS is not the starting point — it is the next step.

A typical progression:

  • ReOC → EVLOS → Controlled Airspace → BVLOS

We support operators through each stage to ensure:

  • Capability builds progressively
  • Risk is managed appropriately
  • Approvals are achievable

FAQ

Is BVLOS difficult to obtain?

BVLOS approvals are complex and require a structured, well-designed approach.

Do I need EVLOS before BVLOS?

Not always, but EVLOS provides a strong operational foundation.

How long does BVLOS approval take?

Timeframes vary significantly depending on complexity and readiness.

Can BVLOS be scaled across multiple locations?

Yes — particularly under emerging broad area approval models.

Drone in flight

Start Your BVLOS Strategy

If you are planning to move into BVLOS or remote operations, the first step is defining a clear, achievable operational concept.