§44811 Beyond Visual Line of Sight Operations for Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Summary

The FAA Administrator must publish a proposed rule within 4 months that creates a performance-based way for unmanned aircraft systems to fly beyond visual line of sight. UAS = unmanned aircraft systems (drones). BVLOS = flights where the pilot cannot see the drone. The proposed rule must set acceptable risk levels (including those from section 931 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024), standards for remote pilots and operators that account for different levels of automation, and an approval or acceptance process for UAS and related parts. That process can use a special airworthiness certificate or let a manufacturer declare compliance with an FAA-accepted means of compliance, and it must not require type or production certification though it may allow them. The FAA must consider UAS within maximum gross weight or kinetic energy and maximum speed limits it sets, and may set altitude limits and standoff distances from structures. The rule must include operating rules for approved UAS, protocols for networked information exchange like network-based remote identification, and protections for manned aircraft (including limits for less maneuverable craft like hot air balloons). The FAA must issue a final rule within 16 months after the proposed rule is published and is not required to reopen or change any BVLOS rulemakings already underway as of the law’s enactment.