CAA unveils diverse BVLOS drone projects
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has announced six projects to trial drone operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) as part of a new scheme aimed at integrating unmanned aerial vehicles into UK airspace.
The chosen trials will explore various applications of BVLOS drone technology, including deliveries, infrastructure inspections, emergency services, and flights to remote locations. These projects are set to play a crucial role in developing the necessary safety data and regulations to make extended drone flights a common occurrence in British skies.
BVLOS operations involve flying drones at distances beyond the operator’s visual range, utilising advanced technologies for navigation, control, and detection of other aircraft. This capability is considered essential for unlocking the full potential of drone technology across various sectors.
Among the selected projects are some high-profile names and innovative initiatives:
- Amazon Prime Air: Focusing on consumer drone deliveries
- Airspection: Conducting inspections of offshore windfarms
- National Police Air Service (NPAS): Exploring uncrewed aircraft use in policing
- NATS: Carrying out BVLOS inspections over the North Sea
- Project SATE (Sustainable Aviation Test Environment): Operating flights to Orkney
- Project Lifeline: Facilitating medical deliveries
These trials will gather critical safety data, including information on how drones detect and avoid other aircraft, the electronic signals they emit to ensure visibility to other airspace users and air traffic control, and other crucial factors for safe integration.
Sophie O’Sullivan, Director of Future of Flight at the CAA, said: “These innovative trials mark a significant step forward in integrating drones safely into UK airspace. By supporting projects ranging from consumer deliveries to critical infrastructure inspections, we are gathering essential data to shape future policies and regulations.”
The CAA’s initiative is part of an innovation sandbox approach, allowing organisations to test and develop their concepts within a controlled environment. This method not only helps applicants refine their innovations but also assists the CAA in evolving regulations to better support both innovators and existing airspace users.
“Our goal is to make drone operations beyond visual line of sight a safe and everyday reality, contributing to the modernisation of UK airspace and the incorporation of new technology into our skies,” O’Sullivan added.
The BVLOS sandbox is a collaborative effort with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), supporting the creation of an aviation ecosystem needed to accelerate the introduction of advanced air mobility (AAM), drones, and electric sub-regional aircraft in the UK.
Simon Masters, Future Flight Challenge Deputy Director at UKRI, commented: “The UKRI Future Flight challenge team are excited to be working in partnership with the UK Civil Aviation Authority, working together to accelerate the introduction of drone operations in the UK.”
The trials are also expected to contribute to the development of plans for safely integrating drones with other airspace users, aligning with the regulator’s broader Airspace Modernisation Strategy.
“These have the potential to transform how we deliver goods and provide services, particularly in less well-connected regions. These new sandbox projects are a great step towards realising these ambitions,” Masters added.
As the UK moves towards a future where drones play an increasing role in various industries and services, these trials represent a critical step in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of BVLOS operations.
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