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.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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