The significance of BVLOS lies in the multitude of opportunities it unlocks across diverse sectors of the drone industry. The ability to fly BVLOS enables several categories of the drone industry to develop fully by permitting pilots to operate their drones to their full potential. However, this newfound freedom comes with an added element of risk, a challenge the industry is prepared to address. The possibilities of BVLOS drone operations are virtually limitless, constrained only by imagination. Numerous industries are already harnessing this technology’s potential, enhancing business productivity and profitability. Embracing BVLOS operations will significantly boost the demand for skilled pilots, creating numerous job opportunities for drone operators and various supporting roles within the industry. It is predicted there will be a sharp increase in the number of drone pilot jobs in the coming years, primarily due to the further development of Beyond VLOS operations. These jobs are expected to be in high demand due to competitive pay and the development of valuable skill sets, including critical thinking, situational awareness, discipline, communication, and leadership, that are incredibly valuable in several other industries outside of aviation.
CASA
Enter the Civil Aviation Safety Authority or CASA, Australia’s aviation safety regulatory body, which recently introduced a BVLOS OCTA (Beyond Visual Line of Sight, outside of controlled airspace rating). This rating offers a more straightforward and accessible pathway for drone operators to conduct BVLOS flights compared to the previous method of having an Instrument Rating (IREX) for drone BVLOS operations. CASA recognised the need for a dedicated BVLOS rating for drones to make this capability more accessible to remote pilots and operators. The team here at Global Drone Solutions have been working tirelessly in conjunction with some of our international partners and other industry experts to develop the highest quality training materials on the Australian market. We are proud to announce that this material is ending its stages of iteration and development, meaning our first-ever BVLOS OCTA course is a mere few weeks away. Prioritising the safety of personnel and employees is essential, which is why many businesses are turning to drones and their BVLOS capabilities to reduce costs, improve operational efficiency and, most importantly, improve safety. The reduced risk associated with drone use in certain operations, such as high-elevation inspections on buildings or skyscrapers, is a significant benefit. BVLOS flights also enable more data to be collected in fewer flights, eliminating the need for multiple take-offs and landings to reposition the drone. This, in turn, reduces the cost per flight. However, despite these significant advancements in the industry, there is still a long road ahead. The approval process for BVLOS flights has improved with the introduction of CASA’s Standard Scenarios. However, applying for such permissions can still be expensive, and there’s no guarantee of approval.
Summary
In summary, CASA’s introduction of the BVLOS rating is a monumental step forward for the drone industry, opening up exciting possibilities for various sectors. BVLOS represents a transformative force reshaping industries and breaking barriers in the world of drones. It has the potential to revolutionise the way we use drones, pushing the boundaries of what these unmanned aircraft can achieve. Here at GDS, we embrace these changes to the fullest capacity to ensure your operations can soar to new heights. While these changes hold great promise, challenges must be addressed for BVLOS operations to reach their full potential. Streamlining approval processes and increasing awareness of the benefits of BVLOS operations are crucial steps in this journey. These efforts will enhance safety and promote more efficient and widespread use of drones across numerous industries. As we continue to embrace BVLOS technology, we stand at the threshold of a future where drones become an even more integral part of our daily lives. BVLOS unlocks the skies in a new light, offering endless possibilities for applications in delivery services, law enforcement, search and rescue, inspections, and beyond. The sky’s the limit, and BVLOS is the key to unlocking it. With ongoing innovation and collaboration within the drone industry, we are on the path to realising this exciting future where drones play an increasingly vital role in shaping our world. If you would like any further information or to inquire about BVLOS course dates, you can call us directly on 1300 437 663 or fill in the form below, and one of our team will contact you.
