Advanced Drone Operations

Advanced drone operations in China involve higher risks and require strict adherence to regulations set by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). These include Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS), night flying, urban operations, and flights in controlled airspace. Operators must obtain an Advanced Operations Certificate, which includes passing an exam and completing a flight review. Some operations also require a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC), detailing specific safety measures. By following these stringent guidelines, operators can ensure safe and legal advanced drone activities in China.

Definition

Advanced operations refer to drone activities that involve higher risks or require special permissions due to their complexity. These operations include flying in controlled airspace, near people, beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), at night, and in other high-risk scenarios.

Certification and Requirements

Advanced Operations Certificate

To conduct advanced operations, operators must obtain an Advanced Operations Certificate from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). The certification process includes:

• Advanced Operations Exam: Pass the online Advanced Operations exam, which tests knowledge on regulations, safety procedures, and advanced flight techniques.
• Flight Review: Complete a flight review with an accredited flight reviewer to demonstrate practical flying skills and adherence to safety protocols.
• Knowledge and Experience: Operators must have a thorough understanding of airspace classifications, emergency procedures, and advanced operational limits.

Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC)

Certain advanced operations require a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC). This certificate is specific to the operation being conducted and outlines the conditions and limitations.

• Application Process: Submit a detailed application to the CAAC, including a risk assessment, safety plan, and flight details.
• Approval: Receive approval from the CAAC before commencing the operation.
• Renewal: SFOCs are typically issued for a specific period or operation and may need renewal for ongoing activities.

Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS)

Regulations and Requirements

BVLOS operations involve flying the drone beyond the pilot’s visual line of sight, which significantly increases the complexity and risk. Key requirements include:

• SFOC: An SFOC is mandatory for BVLOS operations, detailing the safety measures and operational plan.
• Detect and Avoid Systems: Use of advanced detect and avoid systems to prevent collisions with other aircraft and obstacles.
• Communication: Reliable communication systems to maintain control and receive telemetry data from the drone.
• Flight Crew: A trained flight crew, including a remote pilot and visual observers, to monitor the drone’s surroundings and maintain situational awareness.

Operational Use Cases

BVLOS operations are often used in applications such as:

• Surveying and Mapping: Conducting large-scale surveys and mapping projects.
• Infrastructure Inspection: Inspecting pipelines, power lines, and other infrastructure over long distances.
• Environmental Monitoring: Monitoring wildlife, forests, and agricultural areas.

Urban Operations

Regulations and Requirements

Operating drones in urban areas involves flying near buildings, infrastructure, and people, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols:

• Advanced Operations Certificate: Required for urban operations.
• SFOC: May be necessary depending on the specific urban environment and flight plan.
• Safety Protocols: Implement robust safety measures, including risk assessments, emergency procedures, and public notifications.
• Informed Consent: Obtain informed consent from individuals who may be affected by the drone operation.

Operational Use Cases

Urban operations are commonly used for:

• Media and Entertainment: Capturing aerial footage for film, television, and news.
• Public Safety: Assisting law enforcement, fire services, and emergency response teams.
• Infrastructure Management: Inspecting buildings, bridges, and other urban infrastructure.

Night Operations

Regulations and Requirements

Flying drones at night requires additional precautions to ensure visibility and safety:

• Lighting: Drones must be equipped with anti-collision lights visible from at least 3 nautical miles.
• SFOC: Required for night operations, detailing the lighting and safety measures in place.
• Advanced Operations Certificate: Operators must hold this certificate to fly at night.

Operational Use Cases

Night operations are used in scenarios such as:

• Search and Rescue: Locating missing persons or assessing disaster areas after dark.
• Security and Surveillance: Monitoring large events, industrial sites, or other areas requiring nighttime oversight.
• Environmental Studies: Conducting wildlife studies or environmental monitoring that requires nighttime data collection.

Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC)

Application Process

Applying for an SFOC involves submitting detailed information to the CAAC, including:

• Operation Description: Detailed description of the planned operation, including objectives, location, and duration.
• Risk Assessment: Comprehensive risk assessment identifying potential hazards and mitigation strategies.
• Safety Plan: Detailed safety plan outlining emergency procedures, communication protocols, and safety measures.
• Pilot Qualifications: Information on the pilot’s qualifications, certifications, and experience.

Approval and Compliance

• Approval Process: The CAAC reviews the application and may request additional information or modifications to the safety plan.
• Compliance: Operators must comply with all conditions outlined in the SFOC and may be subject to inspections and audits by the CAAC.

Summary

Advanced operations encompass a range of high-risk activities that require thorough preparation, certification, and adherence to strict safety protocols. Whether conducting BVLOS flights, urban operations, night flights, or other specialized activities, obtaining the necessary certifications and following regulatory requirements is crucial for ensuring safe and compliant operations. By understanding and implementing these advanced operational guidelines, drone operators can expand their capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of safety and responsibility.

For further information, please refer to the official CAAC resources and guidelines on their website.