Advanced Drone Operations in France- What Are They?

Advanced Drone Operations in France refer to high-risk flights that go beyond standard visual line of sight (VLOS) or basic operations. These operations include complex missions such as Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS), night flights, and urban missions that require additional certifications, permissions, and safety protocols. The Directorate General for Civil Aviation (DGAC) oversees these advanced operations, ensuring that operators adhere to strict safety guidelines to minimize risks to public safety and airspace integrity. Understanding the requirements for Advanced Drone Operations in France is essential for commercial operators looking to engage in more complex missions that demand higher levels of skill, authorization, and equipment.

Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS)

BVLOS Operations

• Definition: BVLOS operations allow drone pilots to operate the aircraft beyond their visual line of sight, enabling longer-range missions such as infrastructure inspections, agricultural monitoring, or environmental surveys. BVLOS is particularly beneficial in areas where line of sight is difficult to maintain, such as over large forests or water bodies.
• Certification Requirements: BVLOS flights require operators to obtain authorization from the DGAC, which involves a detailed risk assessment and proof of safety measures, such as detect-and-avoid systems to prevent collisions.
• Communication Systems: BVLOS drones must have reliable communication and control systems that maintain a stable connection over long distances. Operators must also have procedures for regaining control if the connection is lost.
• Safety Protocols: Drones must have a Return-to-Home (RTH) feature activated in case of connection loss, and operators must have manual emergency procedures in place to handle unforeseen circumstances.

Use Cases

• Infrastructure Monitoring: BVLOS is ideal for inspecting long stretches of infrastructure, like pipelines, power lines, and railway tracks.
• Environmental Surveys: Drones can be used for large-scale environmental monitoring in rural or remote areas, such as assessing wildlife populations or tracking environmental changes.

Night Operations

Rules for Night Flying

• Permissions Required: Night flying is considered high-risk and requires special permission from the DGAC. Operators must submit an application that includes a detailed flight plan, safety measures, and lighting requirements.
• Lighting: Drones must be equipped with anti-collision lights that are visible from at least 150 meters to ensure visibility for the operator and other airspace users.
• Safety Procedures: Operators must demonstrate that they are trained to handle the challenges of night flying, such as reduced visibility, and have contingency plans for emergencies.

Use Cases

• Search and Rescue: Drones are often used at night for search and rescue missions, particularly in areas where ground access is limited or dangerous.
• Security and Surveillance: Drones provide valuable night-time monitoring of large events, industrial sites, or public spaces for security purposes.

Urban Operations

Flying in Densely Populated Areas

• Special Permissions: Flying drones in urban environments or densely populated areas requires additional approvals from the DGAC. Operators must provide a risk assessment and detail how they will avoid flying over people and handle potential emergencies.
• Risk Management: Operators must equip drones with advanced obstacle avoidance systems to reduce the likelihood of collisions with buildings or infrastructure.
• Consent and Notification: For commercial purposes, such as filming or real estate inspections, operators must obtain informed consent from individuals or property owners who may be affected by the drone’s flight.

Use Cases

• Media Production: Urban drones are commonly used in filmmaking and media to capture aerial footage of cityscapes or events.
• Infrastructure Inspections: Drones are increasingly employed for inspecting buildings, bridges, and other urban infrastructure that may be difficult to access otherwise.

Operations in Controlled Airspace

Flying Near Airports or Restricted Zones

• Authorization Requirements: Any operation in controlled airspace, such as near airports or military zones, requires prior authorization from the DGAC and coordination with air traffic control authorities. Operators must submit detailed flight plans and communicate closely with air traffic controllers to avoid conflicts with manned aircraft.
• Geofencing: Drones used in controlled airspace operations should be equipped with geofencing technology to prevent unauthorized entry into restricted zones.
• Coordination with ATC: Operators flying near airports or heliports must maintain constant communication with air traffic control (ATC) to ensure compliance with airspace restrictions.

Use Cases

• Surveying: Drones are used to survey areas near airports for construction or environmental assessments.
• Cargo Delivery: In some cases, drones are used to deliver goods within controlled airspace, requiring strict adherence to ATC guidelines.

Summary

Complying with the regulations for Advanced Drone Operations in France is crucial for conducting high-risk missions legally and safely. Whether flying BVLOS, conducting urban operations, or managing night missions, operators must follow specific guidelines and obtain the necessary certifications from the DGAC to ensure compliance. By adhering to these advanced regulations, drone pilots can minimize risks, protect public safety, and contribute to the responsible use of drones in increasingly complex environments across France.