Introduction

The current regulatory landscape for drone operations often mandates that pilots maintain Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) with their aircraft, significantly limiting the range, efficiency, and scalability of commercial and public safety applications. However, the true transformative power of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) lies in their ability to operate Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS), enabling missions that span vast distances, penetrate complex environments, and revolutionize industries from logistics and infrastructure inspection to emergency response and agriculture. Achieving BVLOS capability unlocks unprecedented operational efficiency, cost savings, and enhanced safety by reducing human exposure to hazardous areas. Navigating the stringent regulatory requirements and securing the necessary BVLOS waivers or authorizations is a complex process that demands specialized knowledge and a meticulous approach to risk mitigation. This essential training course focuses on BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) Operations & Waivers, empowering professionals to legally and safely extend their drone operations beyond the horizon.

This intensive training course provides a comprehensive and practical guide to understanding, planning, and executing BVLOS drone operations. Participants will gain in-depth knowledge of airspace management for BVLOS flights, advanced risk assessment methodologies (e.g., SORA), and the critical technologies (e.g., detect-and-avoid, robust communication) required for safe operation without direct visual contact. We will delve into the intricacies of preparing and submitting BVLOS waiver applications to aviation authorities, including developing detailed Concepts of Operations (ConOps) and demonstrating stringent safety cases. By mastering the regulatory, operational, and technological aspects of BVLOS operations, you will be equipped to lead cutting-edge drone programs, unlock new commercial opportunities, and conduct complex missions with unprecedented range and efficiency, all while adhering to the highest safety standards.

Target Audience

• Commercial Drone Pilots & Operators
• UAS Program Managers
• Aerospace & Aviation Professionals
• Logistics & Delivery Companies
• Infrastructure Inspectors
• Public Safety & Emergency Services
• Surveying & Mapping Professionals
• Agricultural Technology Specialists

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamental differences and implications of VLOS vs. BVLOS drone operations.
• Identify the significant benefits and use cases for BVLOS flights.
• Comprehend the regulatory frameworks and requirements for BVLOS authorizations
• Master advanced risk assessment methodologies specifically for BVLOS operations (e.g., SORA).
• Learn about detect-and-avoid (DAA) technologies and their role in BVLOS safety.
• Understand requirements for robust Command and Control (C2) and communication links for BVLOS.
• Develop comprehensive Concepts of Operations (ConOps) for proposed BVLOS missions.
• Prepare and submit detailed BVLOS waiver or authorization applications to aviation authorities.
• Implement emergency procedures and contingency planning for BVLOS flights.
• Explore the role of Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) in enabling scalable BVLOS operations.
• Design a framework for integrating BVLOS capabilities into existing drone programs.

DURATION

10 Days

COURSE CONTENT

Module 1: Introduction to BVLOS Operations

• Defining Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS).
• Historical context and evolution of drone regulations.
• The economic and operational advantages of BVLOS capabilities.
• Key industries transformed by BVLOS operations (e.g., energy, logistics, public safety).
• Overview of the global regulatory landscape for BVLOS.

Module 2: Regulatory Landscape & Compliance

• Detailed review of major aviation authority regulations for BVLOS (e.g., FAA Part 107 Waivers, EASA Specific Category, CASA BVLOS).
• Understanding the concept of Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA).
• International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidance on RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems).
• Requirements for pilot certification and operator authorizations for BVLOS.
• Navigating airspace classifications and restrictions for BVLOS flights.

Module 3: Advanced Risk Assessment & Mitigation (SORA)

• Deep dive into the SORA methodology (Joint Authorities for Rulemaking on Unmanned Systems).
• Identifying and assessing ground risk and air risk for BVLOS operations.
• Determining Specific Assurance and Integrity Level (SAIL).
• Developing comprehensive risk mitigation strategies (operational, technical, human factors).
• Practical exercises in completing SORA assessments for BVLOS scenarios.

Module 4: Detect-and-Avoid (DAA) Technologies

• Importance of DAA systems for safe BVLOS operations.
• Types of DAA sensors: radar, LiDAR, electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) cameras, acoustic sensors.
• Principles of aircraft detection, tracking, and classification.
• Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) In/Out for manned aircraft avoidance.
• Integration of DAA systems with drone autopilots.

Module 5: Robust Command & Control (C2) and Communication

• Requirements for reliable and redundant C2 links for BVLOS flights.
• Long-range communication technologies: cellular (4G/5G), satellite, proprietary RF.
• Link budget analysis and signal strength management.
• Mitigation strategies for communication loss and interference.
• Designing fail-safe C2 systems and lost link procedures.

Module 6: Navigation, Geofencing, and Contingency Planning

• Advanced GPS/GNSS systems and IMU for precise BVLOS navigation.
• Implementing dynamic geofencing and airspace segregation.
• Developing comprehensive contingency and emergency procedures for BVLOS operations.
• Automated return-to-home (RTH) and emergency landing protocols.
• Risk mitigation for unforeseen events (e.g., weather changes, system malfunctions).

Module 7: Developing a BVLOS Concept of Operations (ConOps)

• Structure and essential elements of a BVLOS ConOps document.
• Defining the operational environment, mission objectives, and flight parameters.
• Detailing aircraft specifications, payload, and ground support equipment.
• Outlining crew roles, responsibilities, and training requirements.
• Incorporating safety management system (SMS) principles into the ConOps.

Module 8: BVLOS Waiver Application Process

• Step-by-step guide to preparing a BVLOS waiver or authorization application.
• Required documentation: ConOps, SORA, flight manuals, maintenance records, crew qualifications.
• Strategies for addressing regulatory concerns and demonstrating safety equivalency.
• Common pitfalls and best practices for successful waiver submissions.
• Communication and engagement with aviation authorities during the application process.

Module 9: Training & Qualifications for BVLOS Personnel

• Specific knowledge and skill requirements for BVLOS remote pilots and visual observers.
• Advanced meteorological understanding for long-range operations.
• Airspace knowledge and air traffic control (ATC) communication protocols.
• Practical flight training considerations for BVLOS scenarios.
• Continuous professional development for BVLOS operational teams.

Module 10: Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) & Integration

• Introduction to UTM systems for managing low-altitude airspace.
• The role of UTM in enabling scalable and safe BVLOS operations.
• Remote ID and tracking technologies for airspace situational awareness.
• Integration of BVLOS flights with manned aircraft operations.
• Future of interoperability between UTM service providers.

Module 11: Case Studies & Best Practices

• Analysis of successful BVLOS deployments in various industries (e.g., pipeline inspection, medical delivery, large-area mapping).
• Review of challenging BVLOS scenarios and lessons learned.
• Discussion of innovative BVLOS solutions and technologies.
• Best practices for operational planning, execution, and post-mission review for BVLOS.
• Exploring the economic impact of BVLOS capabilities.

Module 12: Advanced BVLOS Operations & Future Outlook

• BVLOS operations over people and beyond populated areas.
• Multi-drone BVLOS operations and swarm capabilities.
• Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and cargo delivery with BVLOS drones.
• Role of AI and machine learning in enhancing BVLOS autonomy and safety.
• Regulatory evolution and the path to routine, widespread BVLOS flights.

Module 13: Practical Application & Simulation

• Hands-on exercises with BVLOS mission planning software.
• Simulated BVLOS flight scenarios with various challenges (e.g., emergency landings, DAA system failures).
• Developing customized BVLOS operating procedures.
• Review and critique of sample BVLOS ConOps and waiver applications.
• Discussion on building a BVLOS-ready drone program.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.