Build a stronger presence around BVLOS and the next wave of UAS regulation

Part 108 is here… are you ready for it?

FAA approvals for BVLOS operations are shifting from case-by-case waivers to a standardized regulatory framework (14 CFR Part 108). This guide explains what that means, why it matters, and how to prepare your people and program.

Discover More Get Started Get Started

What is BVLOS, and what is “Part 108”?

BVLOS stands for beyond visual line of sight — flights where the aircraft cannot be continuously observed by the remote pilot or visual observer. Today, BVLOS requires waivers or special approvals. “Part 108” refers to the forthcoming regulation designed to standardize BVLOS operations through rules, equipment, procedures, and qualifications. 

Part 108 is not a replacement for Part 107 — it is a separate regulation. Its goal is to enable routine BVLOS operations at scale while raising safety standards through training, detect-and-avoid systems, risk management, and program-level oversight.

This Guide Will:

 
Define BVLOS and the 108 framework—what changes, and what stays the same. BVLOS 101
 
Show why BVLOS matters for utilities, public safety, infrastructure, and logistics. Opportunities
 
Lay out the 108 readiness pathway—skills, equipment, and standards-based credentials. Get 108 Ready
 
Provide a checklist to prepare leadership, policy, and crews. Org Readiness

BVLOS 101: Quick Facts

 
Definition: Flight without continuous unaided visual contact with the aircraft.
 
Today: Typically approved by waiver with strict mitigations, trained crews, and risk documentation.
 
Part 108 concept: Standards-based BVLOS using qualifications, equipage (e.g., detect-and-avoid), procedures, and SMS alignment.
 
Why it matters: Enables linear inspections, corridor mapping, remote dispatch, and package delivery at scale.

Regulatory Evolution (High Level)

2017 FAA launches pilot programs (IPP, PSPs) to explore safe BVLOS operations.
2021 FAA convenes BVLOS Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC).
2022 ARC publishes final recommendations; companies continue under Parts 107, 135, and 91 waivers.
2025 FAA issues NPRM proposing standards for repeatable BVLOS.
2026 (expected) Final rule published.

108 is Here… Is Your Organization Ready?

Part 108 shifts BVLOS from “one-off” approvals to a structured process. Under Part 107, the remote pilot holds full responsibility for VLOS safety. Under Part 108, organizations must demonstrate a robust program with trained personnel, documented risk controls, and proven technology for routine and safe BVLOS operations.

The Opportunities Part 108 Will Unlock

BVLOS expands the scale and reach of drone operations—delivering new value across industries.

High-Value Use Cases

  • Linear Infrastructure: Inspect miles of powerlines, pipelines, and rail with fewer launch points
  • Remote Dispatch: Drone-in-a-box systems managed from operations centers.
  • Logistics: Time-sensitive deliveries and shuttle missions.
  • Public Safety: Larger search areas, incident overwatch, and mapping.
  • Agriculture: Large-scale spraying and crop analytics.
Key Takeaway: Part 108 moves the focus from “Can we get a waiver?” to “Can we prove repeatable safety and value?”

Why Employers Care

  • Scale: Enable one-to-many operations with fewer personnel.
  • Consistency: Standardized procedures reduce errors and rework.
  • Safety: Stronger safety culture with detect-and-avoid, SMS, and maintenance programs.
  • Data Quality: Reliable, repeatable acquisition that integrates with enterprise workflows.
  • Cost: Lower cost per mile compared to manned inspections.

Four Pillars of 108 Readiness (and How USI Helps You Build Them)

“We don’t just hire remote pilots. We build programs that demonstrate safety, reliability, and standardization.” — Director, Utility UAS

1) Organizations

Requires supervisors, recordkeeping, routine training, and adoption of a Safety Management System. USI supports organizations with manuals, training, and compliance systems.

2) Airworthiness

Requires “consensus-based” airworthiness standards and maintenance programs staffed with OEM-qualified technicians. USI launched the first ASTM-approved UAS Maintenance Technician program.

3) Air Traffic Avoidance

Emphasizes detect-and-avoid, command and control (C2) integrity, and flight path coordination. USI partners with Censys Technologies to train operators on FAA-approved detect-and-avoid systems.

4) Validation Testing

All applicants must pass FAA validation tests to prove safe BVLOS operations. USI brings auditing and certification experience to prepare organizations for success.

How to Build the Drone Workforce of the Future

Part 108 requires coordinated teams—not solo experts. Define roles, train to standards, and document competence.

Key Roles

  • Flight Supervisors — Oversee compliance, safety, and procedures.
  • Flight Coordinators — Plan missions, manage automation, and monitor UAS health.
  • Payload & Data Specialist — Ensure quality data delivery.
  • Ground Handling Crews — Secure payloads for logistics operations.
  • Maintenance Technicians — Conduct inspections, maintenance, and repairs.
💡 Hiring Tip: Write job posts to the role and standard (e.g., “BVLOS readiness, SMS, DAA procedures”), not just “Part 107 required.”

Competency Map

Standards-based training should cover:

  • Aeronautical Knowledge – aviation regulations, airspace classification, weather, and system performance.
  • Mission Planning – site surveys, preflight responsibilities, planning calculations, risk assessment, and go/no-go decision making.
  • Automation Management – control station programming, autopilot modes, monitoring aircraft health and status, emergency response, and aeronautical decision making.
  • Systems and Components – airframes, propulsion, autopilots, navigation, sensors, command and control links, payloads, and ground support equipment.
  • Maintenance – tool use, shop safety, electronics, software, wear and tear, preventive and conditional maintenance, time-limited parts, troubleshooting, and recordkeeping.
  • Human Factors – cognition, human error, human–machine interaction, automation surprises, and crew resource management.
  • Safety Management – accident causation, organizational roles and responsibilities, risk management, audits and inspections, safety culture, and training.
  • BVLOS Readiness – detect-and-avoid procedures, ground track planning, and crew communication demonstrations.

Get 108 Ready with USI

Follow a structured training pathway that proves operational readiness—not just exam readiness.

Safety Level Certifications

Progressive competencies in UAS systems, maintenance, risk management, and advanced operations.

  • VSO Ground / Flight: Aeronautical knowledge, planning, and automation.
  • Unmanned Safety I / II: Systems knowledge and maintenance skills.
  • Advanced Safety I / II: Human factors, crew resource management, SMS.
  • BVLOS Readiness: Detect-and-avoid procedures, planning, communications.

Specialized Endorsements & Skills

Targeted skills that set your program apart.

  • BVLOS Readiness — DAA, C2/Comms, remote ops, and contingency playbooks.
  • Thermal Imaging — energy inspection and public safety workflows.
  • Mapping & Surveying — GIS/photogrammetry at corridor scale.
  • Sector-Specific Training — utilities, public safety, logistics, agriculture.
💡 Resume Tip: Use keywords like “BVLOS readiness,” “detect and avoid,” and “UAS safety management.”

Organization Readiness for Part 108

Move from pilot projects to repeatable BVLOS programs with trained people, documented standards, and measurable performance.

108 Program Checklist

  • Manuals (operations, maintenance, SMS, ERP, OEM)
  • Compliance recordkeeping for training, ops, maintenance, incidents
  • Risk assessments (C2 link, ground risk)
  • Training (initial + recurrent)
  • Equipage (detect-and-avoid, C2 link, deconfliction)
  • Maintenance programs (inspections, parts replacement, battery management)
  • Stakeholder engagement (landowners, FAA, community)
  • Metrics (safety, reliability, value KPIs)

Pro Tip: Start small—one corridor or one campus. Standardize, measure, then scale.

FAQ: Training, Timing, and Transition

Answers to the questions we hear most from teams preparing for BVLOS and Part 108.

When will Part 108 “arrive”?

The FAA rulemaking process typically takes 12–24 months. Build 108 capabilities now to be ready when approvals expand.

How do I get trained for BVLOS?

Choose training by role:

Does 108 replace Part 107?

No. Part 107 remains for VLOS. Part 108 covers routine BVLOS.

Will new equipment be needed?

Yes—detect-and-avoid, reliable C2, and UTM systems. Define equipage, testing, and maintenance in your operations manual.

What jobs will 108 create?

Supervisors, operations center staff, maintenance techs, data specialists, and coordinators trained to 108 standards.

Where should we start?

Select a high-ROI use case (e.g., utility corridor). Build SOPs, training, and equipage. Measure results, then scale.

Final Thoughts

Part 108 will reward organizations that combine compliance, repeatability, data quality, and safety leadership. Build the foundation now—people, procedures, and proof—so you are ready when BVLOS scales.

Next Step: Explore USI’s training pathway to accelerate your BVLOS capability and earn credentials recognized by regulators and employers.

Get 108 Ready with USI

Stand up a BVLOS‑ready program with training, endorsements, and standards‑based credentials.