Japanese Advanced Drone Operations – What Are They?

Japanese Advanced Drone Operations encompass high-risk activities such as Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights, night operations, and urban missions, each requiring special permissions and stringent safety protocols. These operations go beyond standard drone use and demand additional certifications, safety measures, and regulatory compliance set by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLIT). Understanding the requirements for Japanese Advanced Drone Operations is essential for operators seeking to engage in these complex activities, ensuring that they meet all legal and safety standards for conducting high-level drone missions responsibly and effectively.

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:

• Operational Authorization: Operators must obtain an Operational Authorization from MLIT, which includes approval for BVLOS operations. This authorization outlines the specific conditions and limitations for the operation.
• Detect and Avoid Systems: BVLOS flights often require advanced detect-and-avoid systems to prevent collisions with other aircraft or obstacles. Operators must demonstrate that these systems are reliable and effective.
• Communication Systems: Robust communication systems are essential to maintain control of the drone and receive telemetry data over long distances. MLIT may require proof of reliable communication links for the entire duration of the flight.
• Safety Protocols: Operators must establish comprehensive safety protocols, including emergency procedures for lost link scenarios and detailed contingency plans.

Use Cases

BVLOS operations are often used in applications such as:

• Infrastructure Inspection: Inspecting long stretches of infrastructure, such as power lines, pipelines, or railways.
• Environmental Monitoring: Conducting surveys or monitoring in large or remote areas, such as forests or agricultural fields.
• Surveying and Mapping: Creating detailed maps or conducting large-scale surveys where line of sight cannot be maintained.

Urban Operations

Regulations and Requirements

Operating drones in urban areas presents higher risks due to proximity to people, buildings, and infrastructure. Specific regulations must be followed:

• Operational Authorization: An Operational Authorization is typically required for urban operations. MLIT will review the risk assessment and safety measures before granting approval.
• Risk Assessment: A detailed risk assessment must be conducted to identify potential hazards and outline mitigation strategies. This includes considering the impact of a potential crash, data protection, and privacy concerns.
• Safety Measures: Operators must implement robust safety measures, such as maintaining a safe distance from people and property, using safety nets or cages, and obtaining informed consent when flying near individuals.
• Informed Consent: When operating close to people, especially in residential or commercial areas, operators may be required to obtain informed consent from those affected by the drone’s activities.

Use Cases

Urban operations are commonly used for:

• Media and Entertainment: Capturing aerial footage for films, commercials, or news broadcasts in urban settings.
• Public Safety: Assisting law enforcement, fire services, and emergency responders in urban areas.
• Inspection and Surveying: Conducting detailed inspections of buildings, bridges, and other urban infrastructure.

Night Operations

Regulations and Requirements

Flying drones at night presents additional challenges, including reduced visibility and increased difficulty in maintaining situational awareness. As a result, MLIT imposes stricter regulations on night operations:

• Lighting Requirements: Drones operated at night must be equipped with anti-collision lights visible from at least 3 nautical miles. These lights help other airspace users see the drone and avoid potential collisions.
• Operational Authorization: Night operations typically require an Operational Authorization, which includes specific conditions for safe operation. Operators must demonstrate that they have adequate lighting and safety measures in place.
• Pilot Competency: Operators must hold appropriate certifications and may need to complete additional training focused on night flying. This includes understanding how to navigate and control the drone in low-light conditions.
• Pre-Flight Planning: Detailed pre-flight planning is essential, including selecting a safe flight path, identifying potential obstacles, and ensuring all safety equipment is 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 data collection during night hours.

Operational Authorization

Application Process

Applying for an Operational Authorization from MLIT involves submitting detailed information, including:

• Operation Description: A comprehensive description of the planned operation, including the objectives, location, and duration.
• Risk Assessment: A thorough risk assessment that identifies potential hazards and outlines mitigation strategies.
• Safety Management System: An overview of the operator’s safety management system, including emergency procedures and incident reporting protocols.
• Pilot Qualifications: Information about the pilot’s qualifications, certifications, and experience.

Approval and Compliance

• Approval Process: MLIT reviews the application, assesses the risks, and may request additional information or modifications to the safety plan.
• Compliance: Operators must adhere to all conditions outlined in the Operational Authorization and may be subject to inspections and audits by MLIT.

Summary

Adhering to the regulations for Japanese Advanced Drone Operations is crucial for maintaining safety and compliance during high-risk flights. Whether engaging in BVLOS missions, night operations, or urban flying, operators must meet all legal requirements and obtain necessary permissions from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLIT). By following these guidelines, operators can conduct Japanese Advanced Drone Operations responsibly, minimizing risks and contributing to the safe and innovative use of drone technology in complex environments.