Censys Technologies is at the forefront of the drone industry, aiming to make Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations a common and seamless reality. Over the years, BVLOS waivers have undergone significant transformations, making them more valuable than ever. In this article, we’ll delve into three major changes that have propelled the evolution of BVLOS operations: the removal of Visual Observers (VOs), the introduction of performance-based waivers, and the emergence of shielded operations.
In the early days of BVLOS, Visual Observers (VOs) were a crucial component for ensuring air risk mitigation. Initially, VOs were required to maintain constant visual contact with the Uncrewed Aerial System (UAS). However, in 2022, a pivotal change occurred. VOs were now only obligated to keep an eye on the airspace the UAS was operating in, allowing for strategic placement and significantly reducing the number of necessary personnel. Today, shielded operations have become a reality, eliminating the need for VOs entirely. The fewer people involved in an operation, the more valuable and efficient it becomes.
Performance-based waivers represent a significant leap forward for organizations operating in the BVLOS space. Unlike location-based waivers, also known as geo-constrained waivers, performance-based waivers empower organizations to operate anywhere under a defined set of conditions. This flexibility allows for seamless operations across various locations without the need to submit location-specific waivers. Geo-constrained waivers, akin to science fair projects, are no longer the norm. Performance-based waivers provide a valuable framework for organizations to navigate the complexities of BVLOS operations.
The pinnacle of BVLOS waiver evolution is undeniably shielded operations. This groundbreaking development allows operators to utilize infrastructure as a protective bubble, prohibiting other aircraft from entering. Shielded operations, in particular, can be conducted without the need for Visual Observers. Operators are no longer confined to a specific operational radius but instead, their capabilities are dictated by the drone being utilized. For instance, the Sentaero 5 can fly 40 miles point-to-point under shielded operations, aligning with its maximum endurance.
Achieving the current state of BVLOS capabilities was no easy feat. It required commitment from early adopters, patience in developing creative safety solutions, a steadfast belief in the inherent value of BVLOS, and problem-solving to engineer the necessary technological solutions. As we stand on the brink of the next evolution of BVLOS value, Censys Technologies is eager to explore the untapped potential and opportunities that lie ahead. The journey to unlocking the full value of BVLOS waivers is ongoing, and we anticipate even greater advancements in the near future.
By Censys Technologies