As drone operations grow more sophisticated in Australia, you may have heard terms like EVLOS (Extended Visual Line of Sight) and BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) being thrown around — especially if you're running, or thinking about starting, a drone business under a Remote Operator’s Certificate (ReOC).
But what do these terms actually mean, and how do they apply to you?
This blog is here to help clarify the differences, outline what each operation type involves, and help you decide whether EVLOS, BVLOS — or sticking with standard VLOS — makes the most sense for your work.
First, What’s the Deal With Visual Line of Sight (VLOS)?
Let’s start with the basics.
Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) means flying your drone within direct, unaided visual contact — you can see your aircraft the entire time without using binoculars or screens. This is the standard operating condition under most RePLs and ReOCs.
It’s safe, simple, and suitable for a huge range of tasks — from real estate shoots to small-scale ag work and inspections.
What Is EVLOS (Extended Visual Line of Sight)?
EVLOS is essentially a team-based operation where the drone flies further than the pilot can directly see, but someone else — an observer — still has it in sight.
That person (the observer) must be trained and in communication with the pilot. This arrangement extends your flight range while still operating within visual limits.
What Is BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight)?
BVLOS takes it a step further. It means flying the drone completely beyond anyone’s visual line of sight — not even an observer can see it.
Instead, the operation relies on reliable technology: telemetry, detect-and-avoid systems, reliable command and control (C2) links, and detailed pre-flight planning. These missions require a CASA-approved safety case and robust procedures in place.
EVLOS vs. BVLOS: Which is right for you?
Questions to ask yourself
- Do I need to fly further than I can see on my own?
- Can I place trained observers along my flight path?
- Do I want to scale my operations to cover large or remote areas?
- Am I prepared to invest in the systems and approvals needed for BVLOS?
- Will CASA approve the mission I’m planning under my current ReOC?
EVLOS & BVLOS can add value
While not every job needs them adding EVLOS or BVLOS procedures to your ReOC can future-proof your operation.
As demand grows for long-range, remote, or efficient surveying, these capabilities will put you in a strong position — especially in industries like:
- Agriculture
- Emergency response
- Conservation and land management
- Linear asset inspection
- Surveying and mapping
Final Thoughts: Stay Informed and Fly Within Your Limits
If you’re already operating under a ReOC, or planning to apply for one, understanding where EVLOS and BVLOS fit in is a smart step toward growing your capability. Each comes with its own requirements, risks, and benefits — and there’s no one-size-fits-all.
Take the time to assess what makes sense for your business model, and don’t feel pressure to rush into BVLOS just because it sounds more advanced. Smart, legal, safe flying will always come out ahead — no matter how far you’re going.
Need Help Navigating EVLOS, BVLOS or other approvals?
Need Help Navigating EVLOS or BVLOS Approvals?
Understanding the difference between EVLOS and BVLOS is one thing — implementing them safely and legally is another. If you’re considering expanding your operations beyond standard VLOS, it’s essential to get your procedures right, and to meet CASA’s expectations.
That’s where we come in.
At Uncrewed Aviation Australia, we work with individuals and businesses across Australia to:
- Develop and amend ReOC documentation to include EVLOS and BVLOS operations
- Train pilots in advanced operations, compliance, and risk mitigation
- Support you through the CASA application process — from concept to submission
- Offer realistic advice on what’s achievable based on your goals, aircraft, and operating environment
If EVLOS or BVLOS could benefit your operation, we’ll help you assess the path forward and support you with the approvals, safety cases, and training needed to fly with confidence.
Click here to get in touch with our team here and see how we can help you!
