On August 7, 2025, The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) released a proposed rule that would allow certain drone operations beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS) without the need for individual waivers. The move is aimed at expanding safe, large-scale drone use across industries for activities such as mapping, inspection, and progress monitoring – and was also required by the FAA Reauthorization of 2024.
The FAA proposes to create a new section in its regulations for BVLOS operations. Specifically, drone operators would need to hold either a permit (simpler, capped operations) or a certificate (broader, scalable operations) for BVLOS operations with FAA oversight.
As an example, permit-level construction use such as aerial surveying would be limited to lower population density areas (defined in various tiers), whereas the use of drones in higher density areas would require a step up to a certificate.
This framework would set safety standards for avoiding other aircraft and critical infrastructure by defining what “shielded areas” are and establish equipment performance requirements such as reliable command-and-control systems and onboard detection technology.
The proposal outlines multiple potential uses for BVLOS, including inspections of linear infrastructure like highways, railways, and pipelines, as well as agricultural work and package delivery.
The FAA is accepting public comments on the proposal through the Federal Register before finalizing the rule. If adopted, the changes could open the door to more routine drone use on projects, offering contractors new tools to enhance safety, efficiency, and project oversight.
For more information, please contact Jonathon Porter.