Breaking Down the BVLOS Drone Proposal

Recommended rule would streamline the process for authorizing beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone flight.

Jack Daleo

Thursday, August 07, 2025 at 08:00 AM ET

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Jack Daleo

The FAA’s proposed Part 108 rule would open the floodgates for expanded commercial drone operations in the U.S. [Courtesy: Pexels/JeShoots]

Key Takeaways:

The FAA has proposed a new rule (Part 108) to enable widespread Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) commercial drone operations, moving away from current restrictive, case-by-case authorizations.
This framework shifts to performance-based requirements and industry consensus standards for drone design and operation, introducing an "airworthiness acceptance" in lieu of traditional certification.
The proposed rule aims to standardize BVLOS flights for various commercial applications like delivery and agriculture, including provisions for Automated Data Service Providers (ADSPs) to monitor for collisions and ensure safety in the national airspace.
This long-awaited regulation addresses the current "Wild West" of drone operations, promising to boost U.S. drone dominance and improve safety, with a final rule expected after a 60-day public comment period.

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Fresh off the release of a final rule for light sport aircraft and guidance for powered-lift aircraft certification, the FAA is looking to usher in the dawn of American drone dominance.

More than four years ago, the regulator initiated the creation of rules for drones that fly beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS) of their operator. With limited exceptions, the uncrewed aircraft (UA) must be visible to human personnel, heavily restricting their range and ability to reach customers.