Normalizing Unmanned Aircraft Systems Beyond Visual Line of Sight Operations; Reopening of Comment Period; Denial of Extension
Published Date: 2/10/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA is moving forward with new rules to help drones fly safely beyond the pilot’s sight, especially at low altitudes. They reopened the comment period to get more feedback on key safety topics but decided not to extend it again. This affects drone operators and companies using drones for services, speeding up when these new rules could take effect and helping the drone industry grow without extra delays or costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.
Reopened BVLOS Comment Window Closes
The FAA denied requests to extend the reopened comment period and set the close date as February 11, 2026. A requester had asked for an extension until February 28, 2026, but FAA concluded 14 days was sufficient and will not delay finalizing the rule.
BVLOS Rules Would Enable Low-Altitude Operations
The NPRM proposes performance-based regulations to enable the design and operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) mostly at low altitudes beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) and to support third-party services, including UAS Traffic Management. If finalized, these rules would allow operators and service providers to expand BVLOS activities.
Reopened Comment Focused on Two Topics
The FAA's January 28, 2026, notice reopened comments but limited questions to electronic conspicuity and right-of-way, asking seven specific questions on those topics. The reopened comment period solicits feedback only on those limited subjects and will close on February 11, 2026.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-08943 — Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility
The FAA is proposing new rules to keep drones away from certain important fixed sites like power plants or airports to keep everyone safe and secure. If you own or operate one of these sites, you can request a drone flight restriction zone to protect your property and people nearby. Comments are open until July 6, 2026, and these changes could affect drone pilots and site operators, but no big costs are expected.
2026-10047 — Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes
The FAA wants all Airbus A330-841 and A330-941 airplanes to get regular checks for cracks on certain wing parts to keep flights safe. If cracks are found, fixes must be done right away. Comments on this plan are open until July 6, 2026, and these inspections might cost airlines some time and money but will help prevent bigger problems.
2026-10076 — Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG Engines
The FAA wants to make sure Rolls-Royce Trent7000-72 and Trent7000-72C engines stay safe by stopping certain lubrication pumps from being installed unless they meet new rules. This comes after some engines shut down mid-flight because parts failed too soon. If you own or work with these engines, you’ll need to follow these new rules soon, but no big costs are expected.
2026-09953 — Agency Information Collection Activities: Requests for Comments; Clearance of Renewed Approval of Information Collection: Experimental Aircraft: Letters of Deviation Authority (LODA)
The FAA is renewing its approval to collect info from pilots who want special permission to give paid flight lessons in experimental aircraft. This helps make sure these lessons are safe. If you’re involved, you can comment by June 18, 2026, and there’s no new cost—just the usual paperwork.
2026-09972 — Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposals, Submissions, and Approvals: Mitsubishi MU-2B Series Airplane Training Requirements
The FAA is renewing its paperwork rules for pilots flying the Mitsubishi MU-2B airplane to make sure they get special training and follow safety steps. This affects MU-2B pilots who must keep records proving they completed the required training. Comments on this plan are open until June 18, 2026, and the goal is to keep flying safer without adding extra hassle or costs.
2026-09971 — Notice of Draft FAA Order 5100-38E, Airport Improvement Program Handbook
The FAA is updating its Airport Improvement Program Handbook to reflect new laws and policies since 2017. This affects airports, states, and contractors who rely on federal funding for airport projects. You can review the draft and share your thoughts by August 17, 2026, so the FAA can finalize the new guide and keep airport funding running smoothly.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-02623 — Television Broadcasting Services Norwell, Massachusetts
The FCC wants to switch TV channel 36 to channel 10 for WWDP in Norwell, Massachusetts, so the station can keep serving its viewers without interruption. This change won’t cost the station extra and follows all the technical rules. People have until March 12, 2026, to share their thoughts on this plan.
Next: 2026-02662 — Electronic Export Manifest for Vessel Cargo
Starting soon, anyone shipping cargo by vessel from the U.S. will need to send their export details electronically to Customs before loading or departure. This new rule helps keep cargo safe and speeds up shipping without causing delays. If you’re involved in vessel exports, get ready to submit your info early and keep an eye on the April 13, 2026 comment deadline!