Utilities are increasingly exploring larger UAS (Group 2 to 4) to improve safety, reduce hazardous field exposure, and scale autonomous data collection. This article provides a pragmatic look at the pros and cons of advanced UAS adoption, business case realities, and the primary FAA regulatory pathways, including Section 44807, 14 CFR 91.113(b), Part 91 Public Aircraft Operations, and the future of Part 108.

The FAA’s Part 108 Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) introduces a sweeping new framework for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. While it creates opportunities for all sectors, this article focuses on the raises major questions raised from the perspective of operating such aircraft on critical infrastructure —powerlines, pipelines, and railways, etc.