Extend Your Operational Range. Scale Your Capability.
Move Beyond Visual Line of Sight
Extended Visual Line of Sight (EVLOS) operations allow you to safely and legally operate beyond the direct visual range of a single remote pilot, using trained observers and structured procedures.
For many operators, EVLOS is the critical step between basic operations and true operational scale.
Uncrewed Approvals supports operators in obtaining EVLOS Class 1 and Class 2 approvals, enabling longer-range missions, increased efficiency, and expanded commercial capability.
What is EVLOS?
EVLOS (Extended Visual Line of Sight) is an operational approval issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority that allows drone operations beyond the pilot’s direct visual line of sight through the use of:
- Trained Visual Observers
- Structured communication systems
- Defined operational procedures
- Controlled handover and situational awareness processes
It is a risk-managed extension of standard VLOS operations, not a replacement for visual oversight.
EVLOS Class 1 vs Class 2
EVLOS Class 1
- Single remote pilot with one or more observers
- Operations extend beyond the pilot’s direct visual range
- Observers maintain visual contact with the aircraft
- Typically used for linear or extended-area operations
EVLOS Class 2
- More complex operations with expanded operational footprint
- May involve multiple observers and/or aircraft
- Higher level of procedural control and coordination
- Designed for scalable, enterprise-level operations
What EVLOS Enables
EVLOS unlocks a range of high-value operational use cases:
- Agriculture: Large-area spraying and monitoring
- Asset Inspection: Pipelines, powerlines, and infrastructure
- Mining & Survey: Extended site coverage
- Environmental Operations: Wildlife monitoring and mapping
- Security & Surveillance: Perimeter and wide-area operations
This is where drone operations begin to move from tactical tasks to operational systems.
EVLOS vs BVLOS
EVLOS is often misunderstood as BVLOS — it is not.
- EVLOS: Maintains visual observation through observers
- BVLOS: Removes the requirement for visual observation entirely
EVLOS is typically:
- Faster to achieve
- Lower regulatory burden
- A practical stepping stone toward BVLOS
Requirements for EVLOS Approval
To obtain EVLOS approval, your operation must demonstrate:
Operational Control
- Clearly defined procedures
- Roles and responsibilities
Observer Integration
- Training and competency of observers
- Defined communication protocols
Situational Awareness
- Continuous awareness of aircraft position and environment
- Handover procedures where required
Risk Management
- Identification and mitigation of operational hazards
- Contingency planning
Documentation
- Updated Operations Manual
- SOPs specific to EVLOS operations
The EVLOS Approval Process
We guide you through a structured, CASA-aligned process:
Step 1 — Capability Assessment
We assess your current ReOC, aircraft, and intended operations.
Step 2 — Operational Design
We develop:
- EVLOS procedures
- Observer frameworks
- Communication systems
Step 3 — Documentation Development
We update:
- Operations Manual
- SOPs
- Risk assessments
Step 4 — CASA Submission
Application submitted via the appropriate approval pathway.
Step 5 — Assessment & Validation
We prepare you for:
- Operational scenarios
- Demonstration of procedures
Step 6 — Approval & Implementation
Once approved, we support implementation into your operation.
What You Get
- CASA-compliant EVLOS operational framework
- Observer procedures and integration systems
- Updated documentation ready for use
- Structured risk management approach
- Practical implementation guidance
Why Uncrewed Approvals
EVLOS is not just about documentation — it is about operational design.
We bring:
- Direct experience with CASA approvals
- Deep understanding of real-world EVLOS operations
- Proven frameworks used across multiple industries
- A focus on scalable, practical systems
We design EVLOS operations that are:
- Safe
- Defensible
- Commercially viable
Position Your Operation for Growth
EVLOS is often the gateway to:
EVLOS is often the gateway to:
- Larger contracts
- Increased operational efficiency
- Enterprise-level capability
- Transition toward BVLOS operations
A properly structured EVLOS approval positions your business for long-term growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a ReOC before applying for EVLOS?
Yes. EVLOS is an additional approval under your existing ReOC.
Do observers need formal qualifications?
Observers must be trained and competent in accordance with your procedures.
How long does EVLOS approval take?
Timeframes vary depending on readiness and complexity of the operation.
Can EVLOS be used for multiple aircraft?
Yes — depending on the class and operational design. Additional approvals are required.
Start Your EVLOS Approval
If you are ready to extend your operational capability beyond standard limits, we can help you build and obtain a compliant EVLOS approval.