BVLOS

Go further.
Do more.

Your next step after RePL.

You have started your journey as a licensed remote pilot. Now, explore what comes next.

Build your understanding of beyond visual line-of-sight operations, prepare for the ReB1 examination and discover the pathways towards working with an approved operator or developing your own operation.

Your licence is the foundation. Your next chapter is about capability.

Ask About ReB1 Preparation Explore BVLOS Operator Approvals

Remote pilot in hard hat and hi-vis holding a tablet, with a drone flying far out over farmland along a dashed flight path — **VLOS** — see the droneBVLOS — beyond your direct view

Important: ReB1 is an aeronautical knowledge examination for BVLOS outside controlled airspace. Passing it does not, by itself, authorise BVLOS flying.

Before you begin

What is BVLOS?

BVLOS means Beyond Visual Line of Sight.

In visual line-of-sight operations, the pilot maintains direct visual observation of the aircraft. BVLOS involves operating without maintaining that direct visual contact.

This changes the demands on the pilot. Navigation, aircraft systems, communications, planning and decision-making become especially important when the aircraft is no longer being controlled through direct visual observation.

BVLOS is not simply about buying a drone with a longer advertised transmission range. It is about matching the aircraft, people, procedures and approvals to a particular operation.

CASA assesses complex operations by considering risks to people on the ground, other airspace users and surrounding areas.

The journey

You have your RePL. Where does the journey start?

Start by deciding what you want to do with your next qualification.

Are you looking to join a team conducting advanced drone operations? Support an employer’s inspection or surveying program? Or eventually operate your own BVLOS business?

Your RePL identifies the aircraft type and weight category you are qualified to operate. Developing BVLOS knowledge does not automatically change those aircraft privileges.

For someone pursuing the ReB1 pathway, we recommend thinking about the journey in five stages:

1
Hold the appropriate RePL
Your focus
Establish your licensing foundation.
What it contributes
The relevant pilot qualification.
2
Prepare for ReB1
Your focus
Develop your BVLOS aeronautical knowledge.
What it contributes
Preparation for the examination.
3
Pass the ReB1 examination
Your focus
Demonstrate the required theory knowledge.
What it contributes
An examination pass credit.
4
Develop operational competence
Your focus
Learn the aircraft, systems and operator’s procedures.
What it contributes
Practical readiness for your assigned role.
5
Operate within the required approvals
Your focus
Work under an appropriately authorised operation.
What it contributes
The framework for conducting the flight lawfully.

This is a learning pathway, not a rule that every activity must happen in that exact order. Operator engagement, study and authorised training can overlap. What matters is that the qualifications, competence and approvals required for the actual flight are in place.

Step 1

Build on your RePL foundation

Your RePL can support two directions: working as a remote pilot for a ReOC holder, or pursuing an operation of your own.

You do not need to choose the business-owner pathway simply because you are interested in BVLOS. Working within an established organisation is a separate option.

As you plan your next step, consider your existing flying experience, the aircraft you expect to operate and the kind of work that interests you.

The useful question is not only, “What course comes next?”

It is also:

“What knowledge and capability will the operation require from me?”

Step 2 · Prepare for the ReB1 examination

Develop the knowledge behind more advanced operations

ReB1 preparation builds on your existing aviation knowledge. The syllabus covers how to plan, understand and manage operations when the drone is beyond the pilot’s direct view.

Knowledge areaWhat you need to understand

Rules and limitationsHow pilot qualifications, operator certificates and flight approvals fit together.
Aeronautical informationHow to obtain and interpret the information relevant to a proposed flight.
Aircraft systems and communicationsAutomation, instruments, telemetry, control links, radios and their limitations.
WeatherHow conditions can affect the aircraft along its route, not just at the launch point.
Navigation and planningPosition awareness, aircraft performance, endurance, terrain and obstacles.
Other airspace usersAerodrome operations, crewed-aircraft procedures and conflict avoidance.
Satellite navigationGNSS performance, errors, integrity and limitations.
Human factorsFatigue, workload, communication, situational awareness and reliance on automation.

These areas reflect CASA’s published BVLOS OCTA aeronautical knowledge standards.

Do you have to complete a preparation course?

CASA permits preparation through its published study guidance or a training course. It particularly recommends preparation before booking for candidates without a crewed-aviation background.

A useful study goal is to understand the decisions behind the answers, rather than simply memorising practice questions.

For example: what would you do if the weather deteriorated along the route, the control link became unreliable, or another aircraft approached the operating area?

Discuss My ReB1 Preparation

Step 3 · Sit the ReB1 examination

The exam is a milestone, not the whole approval

Entry requirement: Hold a RePL.
Exam code: ReB1.
Focus: BVLOS outside controlled airspace, or OCTA.
Duration: 90 minutes.
Pass mark: 70%.
Exam provider: Aspeq, authorised by CASA.

After passing, keep your official Result Advice and provide a copy to the chief remote pilot of the operator you fly under. Check current booking conditions and fees with the examination provider.

Three different outcomes should not be confused:

Completing preparation means you have finished your study program.
Passing ReB1 means you have achieved the examination result.
Being ready for approved BVLOS operations also involves practical competence and the operator’s authority.

A preparation-course completion certificate is not a substitute for the official examination result or an operational approval.

Step 4 · Develop practical, operator-specific capability

Knowing the theory and performing the operation are different responsibilities

A pilot joining an operation needs to understand its aircraft, procedures and expectations.

CASA’s chief remote pilot guidance identifies induction, practical competency checks and oversight of pilot qualifications and operational standards as important parts of this process. The operator’s documented proficiency and currency requirements must also be followed.

For your own development plan, ask the operator or training provider how you will practise mission planning, system monitoring, crew coordination, abnormal situations and emergency responses.

Also ask how competence will be assessed for the aircraft and role you are being assigned.

Practical BVLOS training must itself be conducted within the applicable approvals and conditions. An exam pass is not permission to practise BVLOS independently. CASA encourages operators to establish approved areas for training and testing.

Step 5

Choose how you want to enter BVLOS operations

Pathway A

Join an organisation with suitable BVLOS approval

This route is for pilots who want to work within an existing operation.

The organisation holds the relevant ReOC and flight approval. You operate as part of its personnel, within its procedures and the scope of its authority.

Your induction should establish which aircraft and missions you are competent to undertake. The organisation’s chief remote pilot oversees pilot competency and operational standards.

When exploring a role, useful questions include:

“What BVLOS operations are you authorised to conduct?”
“What practical experience and aircraft knowledge do you require?”
“How do you induct and assess new pilots?”

You are developing your capability as a pilot within an approved operation, not purchasing a personal right to fly anywhere.

Pathway B

Develop your own BVLOS operation

This route is for those who want to take responsibility for the business and its operating system.

A ReOC allows a business to seek permissions for complex drone operations. It does not automatically include BVLOS authority.

The operator must establish appropriate procedures, train its personnel, maintain records and comply with its certificate conditions.

A BVLOS application also requires supporting operational and safety documentation. CASA currently lists an operations manual, emergency response plan, risk-assessment evidence and a mapped operating volume with buffers among the application requirements.

For a business owner, the central question becomes:

“Can our organisation demonstrate that it can conduct this operation safely, consistently and within its approval?”

Discuss My BVLOS Operation

Operator approvals

Understand the two approaches to BVLOS approval

These are operator-approval pathways, not two different pilot exams

Once an organisation is planning BVLOS operations, there are two approaches to understand: area-specific approval and broad-area approval.

A single blue operating volume over a landscape, representing an area-specific approval

Approach 1

Area-specific BVLOS approval

Under the standard approach, CASA assesses the proposed operation and its operating area.

The application explains the mission, the risks and the measures used to manage them. CASA then determines whether to issue an approval and the conditions that apply.

Illustrative example: a business proposes recurring survey flights at a particular mine. Its application can be developed around that site, aircraft and operating method.

An area-specific approval should not be described as “one application for every flight”. The important question is whether a proposed flight remains within the approval’s scope.

For new complex-operation applications, CASA now uses AusSORA, its Australian adaptation of the SORA risk-assessment framework. CASA directed applicants to use this approach from 11 May 2026.

Several green operating volumes with ticks across a landscape, representing a broad-area approval

Approach 2

Broad-area BVLOS approval

Broad-area approval changes how eligible additional operating areas can be assessed.

CASA assesses the operator’s capability and key personnel. Within the resulting approval framework, the operator can assess suitable areas itself rather than returning to CASA for an individual area assessment each time.

Illustrative example: an environmental-monitoring business receives work across several regional properties. An appropriately approved operator could assess each proposed location through its authorised process, provided the location and operation meet all the relevant conditions.

Broad-area approval means more flexibility within a defined framework. It does not mean unrestricted BVLOS access.

Area-specific and broad-area approval compared

QuestionArea-specific approachBroad-area approach

Who assesses the operating area?

Area-specificCASA assesses the proposed area.

Broad-areaThe approved operator assesses eligible areas through its authorised process.

What happens at a new location?

Area-specificCheck whether it falls within the approval or requires a variation.

Broad-areaComplete the required area assessment and confirm every condition is met.

What is the practical distinction?

Area-specificApproval centres on the assessed operation and area.

Broad-areaApproval includes a framework for assessing eligible operating areas.

Does the pilot’s ReB1 pass replace this?

Area-specificNo.

Broad-areaNo.

The difference concerns the operator’s approval and assessment responsibilities, not a greater personal privilege attached to the pilot’s examination result.

Real-world example

Understand how BVLOS fits within Australian airspace

Stylised aeronautical chart of the Perth area — Illustration only — not a navigation chart.

Key considerations

Airspace separation
Stay clear of controlled airspace and aerodromes unless approved.
Operating area
Defined area, or broad-area trial framework.
Operating height
Typically max 400 ft / 120 m AGL — see requirements.
Ground risk protection
Sheltering or parachute systems as required.
Situational awareness
ADS-B, radio broadcasts and geofencing.
Weather
Operate within approved weather conditions.
Procedures & compliance
Follow your approved operations manual and keep records.

Broad-area trial

How the broad-area trial works

CASA’s broad-area BVLOS trial began on 15 October 2025. Its published framework contains four pathways and allows approvals lasting up to 12 months from their date of issue. As at 4 October 2026, CASA continues to describe this as a trial.

Broad-area pathways at a glance

Aircraft characteristic dimension: Less than 1 metre
Population-density limit: Fewer than 500 people/km²
Ground-risk requirement: Qualifying sheltering or a compliant parachute system.

Aircraft characteristic dimension: Less than 1 metre
Population-density limit: Fewer than 2,500 people/km²
Ground-risk requirement: Qualifying sheltering and a compliant parachute system.

Aircraft characteristic dimension: Between 1 and 3 metres
Population-density limit: Fewer than 50 people/km²
Ground-risk requirement: Qualifying sheltering or a compliant parachute system.

Aircraft characteristic dimension: Between 1 and 3 metres
Population-density limit: Fewer than 250 people/km²
Ground-risk requirement: Qualifying sheltering and a compliant parachute system.

All four pathways require gross aircraft weight below 25 kg. Maximum aircraft airspeed must be below 25 m/s for A pathways or 35 m/s for B pathways, not merely the speed selected for a mission.

The general height ceiling is 400 feet/120 metres above ground level, with a specific mining-pit provision. Additional aircraft, aerodrome, airspace, weather, buffer and reporting conditions apply. These are screening criteria, not the complete eligibility test.

For agricultural operators

Aircraft weighing 25 kg or more are outside this trial. An appropriate alternative BVLOS approval is needed.

Do not confuse the names

ReB1 is the pilot examination code. B1 is one of the broad-area trial pathways.

Can a first-time operator apply?

A first-time broad-area applicant must also complete the standard AusSORA BVLOS application. CASA reviews documentation, interviews the nominated responsible person and may require an onsite assessment.

For an organisation’s first BVLOS application, CASA says it will likely need to assess a BVLOS flight demonstration. Broad-area approval therefore does not remove the need to establish operational capability.

Where it leads

Where could BVLOS capability take you?

Consider the problem you want to help solve, rather than distance alone.

Agriculture and land management
Large-scale crop monitoring and spraying operations.
Examples of work to explore
Crop, property and environmental monitoring across larger areas.
Infrastructure
Inspect powerlines, pipelines, roads and rail.
Examples of work to explore
Inspection of powerlines, pipelines and other distributed assets.
Environmental monitoring
Wildlife, conservation and environmental monitoring.
Examples of work to explore
Observations across remote or difficult-to-access locations.
Emergency services
Situational awareness within authorised response operations.
Examples of work to explore
Situational awareness and assessment within authorised response operations.
Mining and resources
Operate across large, remote sites.
Examples of work to explore
Surveying and inspection across operational sites.

CASA identifies agriculture, infrastructure inspection, emergency services and environmental monitoring as applications the trial could support. ACE’s advanced-operations material also discusses large-area surveys and infrastructure work. These are potential applications, not guarantees that a particular mission or aircraft is eligible.

For your career planning, combine aviation capability with knowledge of the industry you want to serve. Being able to operate a drone and being able to deliver a useful inspection, survey or monitoring outcome are different goals.

Questions

Frequently asked questions

Is ReB1 the next step after RePL?

For a pilot pursuing this BVLOS knowledge pathway, it is a logical next learning step. Your existing qualifications and intended operation should guide that decision.

Do I need my own ReOC before sitting ReB1?

No. CASA lists a RePL as the exam entry requirement, not ownership of a ReOC.

Do I have to complete EVLOS first?

EVLOS is a separate operating arrangement involving trained observers and its own approval. It is not listed as a prerequisite for sitting ReB1.

Is ReB1 an instrument rating?

No. The comparison with crewed aviation is about progressing beyond an initial licence. CASA’s guidance distinguishes the BVLOS examination pass credit from a rating.

Is ReB1 the only recognised knowledge pathway?

No. CASA also recognises the Instrument Rating Examination pathway and specified supervision arrangements. Under the applicable supervision exemption, the supervising pilot generally must be at the pilot’s location and immediately available to advise and direct them. Telephone availability alone is not that arrangement.

Where does the AROC fit?

An Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate is required for someone who needs to communicate on aviation air-band radio and is not otherwise appropriately licensed or qualified. ReB1 preparation does not replace that radio qualification.

Does BVLOS let me fly higher or enter controlled airspace?

Not automatically. The proposed flight must meet the requirements for its airspace, height and operating conditions. ReB1 is an OCTA examination, not a general authorisation for all advanced operations.

How long does the whole journey take?

Study and practical development depend on the individual and the operation. Operator approvals are a separate process: CASA currently advises that broad-area assessments can take several months after payment. Avoid making commercial commitments based on an assumed approval date.

Does passing ReB1 guarantee a job?

No. Treat it as part of your development, alongside practical competence, relevant industry skills and the requirements of prospective employers.

Your next step

Start with the next step that suits you

Already hold a RePL?

Ask about ReB1 preparation and identify the knowledge you need to develop.

Ask About ReB1 Preparation

Planning operations for a business or organisation?

Discuss the proposed mission, aircraft, operating locations and approval pathway.

ACE’s published BVLOS and EVLOS services include guidance on regulatory frameworks, safety cases, operations manuals and advanced operating procedures.

Book a BVLOS Consultation

Not sure which direction to take?

Tell us what qualifications you hold and what you would like to do. Start with your goal, then work out the next step.

Call ACE Aviation: 1300 336 366or0468 682 525

Drone and remote pilot silhouetted at an outback sunset

Your RePL is the foundation.
Your knowledge supports better decisions.
Your practical capability prepares you for the role.
The right approvals define the operation.

BVLOS opens up doors

Build your next chapter with ACE Aviation.

Start your BVLOS journey

Regulatory information summarised from Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) guidance.

Regulatory information checked on 4 October 2026. This page provides general educational information, not an operational authorisation. Always check current CASA requirements and the conditions applying to the proposed flight.

Go further.
Do more.

Your next step after RePL.

You have started your journey as a licensed remote pilot. Now, explore what comes next.

Your licence is the foundation. Your next chapter is about capability.

You have your RePL. Where does the journey start?

Start by deciding what you want to do with your next qualification.

Are you looking to join a team conducting advanced drone operations? Support an employer’s inspection or surveying program? Or eventually operate your own BVLOS business?

Your RePL identifies the aircraft type and weight category you are qualified to operate. Developing BVLOS knowledge does not automatically change those aircraft privileges.

Start with the next step that suits you

Already hold a RePL?

Ask about ReB1 preparation and identify the knowledge you need to develop.

Ask About ReB1 Preparation

Planning operations for a business or organisation?

Discuss the proposed mission, aircraft, operating locations and approval pathway.

ACE’s published BVLOS and EVLOS services include guidance on regulatory frameworks, safety cases, operations manuals and advanced operating procedures.

Book a BVLOS Consultation

Not sure which direction to take?

Tell us what qualifications you hold and what you would like to do. Start with your goal, then work out the next step.

Call ACE Aviation: 1300 336 366or0468 682 525

Go further.Do more.

What is BVLOS?

You have your RePL. Where does the journey start?

Hold the appropriate RePL

Prepare for ReB1

Pass the ReB1 examination

Develop operational competence

Operate within the required approvals

Build on your RePL foundation

Develop the knowledge behind more advanced operations

Do you have to complete a preparation course?

The exam is a milestone, not the whole approval

Three different outcomes should not be confused:

Knowing the theory and performing the operation are different responsibilities

Choose how you want to enter BVLOS operations