Preparing for Part 108: Your Guide to BVLOS Readiness
Updated: Oct 21
For over a decade, the UAS industry has waited for one milestone: scalable Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) authorization.
Now, with FAA Part 108 on the horizon, that milestone may finally be within reach — but understanding how to get there requires more than anticipation. It requires readiness.
The Context: A Long-Awaited Framework
Part 108 represents what could become the first formal, standardized regulatory framework for routine BVLOS operations.
For many operators, this rulemaking has been viewed as the long-awaited solution to unlock scale — a chance to move beyond waiver-based operations into structured, aviation-grade compliance.
But not every organization can, or should, wait for Part 108 to arrive before acting. While the rule promises clarity, the path to readiness will vary depending on operational intent, aircraft type, and risk tolerance.
Utilities and infrastructure operators don’t necessarily need to wait for the rule — there are other pathways to consider.
The Alternatives: Multiple Paths to BVLOS
BVLOS isn’t a single door — it’s a corridor with multiple access points. Each comes with its own benefits, limitations, and timelines.
44807: The Exemption Pathway
Section 44807 of the FAA Reauthorization Act allows the Administrator to grant exemptions for UAS operations that do not fit within Part 107 but can be deemed safe under existing aviation standards.
For organizations with a strong operational safety case, this pathway can provide an early foothold into BVLOS — especially for specialized use cases such as linear inspection, utility patrol, or controlled-area operations.
Part 91: The Public Aircraft and Governmental Route
Part 91 operations, often associated with Public Aircraft Operators (PAOs), provide flexibility under specific governmental or public service missions.
This pathway enables select utilities — particularly those with state or public partnerships — to operate BVLOS under customized Certificates of Authorization (COAs), often faster than private-sector pathways.
Part 108: The Future-Standard Framework
Part 108 is expected to define the performance-based requirements for routine commercial BVLOS operations — a framework that brings standardization to what has long been a patchwork of exemptions and waivers.
However, readiness for Part 108 won’t be achieved overnight. It will require a deep understanding of how your current program aligns with the proposed structure — and where gaps must be closed.
The Challenge: Knowing Which Path Fits
Every organization’s risk profile, operational maturity, and mission set are different. Some utilities will benefit from early adoption under 44807 or Part 91, while others may be better positioned to transition directly into Part 108 once finalized.
The key is understanding which framework provides the path of least resistance for your organization — not just in terms of compliance, but in scalability and ROI.
That’s where Tactien’s Part 108 Program Prep service provides clarity.
How Tactien Helps
Tactien helps utilities and operators navigate the evolving BVLOS landscape by breaking down the regulatory options available today — and mapping a readiness plan for tomorrow.
Our Process Includes:
Regulatory Landscape Assessment: Reviewing your operations against current and proposed FAA pathways.
Gap Analysis: Identifying what’s needed to meet Part 108 readiness criteria.
Alternate Pathway Evaluation: Exploring exemptions or COAs that may provide earlier access to scalable BVLOS.
Implementation Strategy: Building a roadmap that aligns operations, documentation, and partnerships toward future approval.
The Takeaway: Readiness Is an Active State
Regulatory evolution doesn’t reward those who wait — it rewards those who prepare.
Readiness isn’t about reacting when rules arrive. It’s about holistically understanding your options and positioning your organization for the path of least resistance.
Whether it’s 44807, Part 91, or Part 108, Tactien helps utilities take control of their regulatory trajectory — building scalable, compliant BVLOS operations today, not someday.
📘 Explore this week’s Value Vault feature: Preparing for Part 108 Operations
Each Value Vault resource helps industry leaders make sense of complex aviation frameworks — turning uncertainty into opportunity.
© 2025 The Tactien Group | www.tactiengroup.com
Understanding BVLOS: A Deeper Dive
BVLOS operations are not just a regulatory hurdle; they are a game-changer for utilities. The ability to operate beyond visual line of sight opens up new possibilities for efficiency and safety.
The Importance of BVLOS
Why is BVLOS so crucial? It allows for inspections and operations over vast areas without the need for constant visual contact. This means less downtime and more effective monitoring of critical infrastructure.
Preparing for the Future
As we look towards the future, it’s essential to stay ahead of the curve. Preparing for Part 108 isn’t just about compliance; it’s about leveraging technology to enhance operations.
The Role of Technology in Readiness
Technology plays a pivotal role in achieving BVLOS readiness. From advanced drones to sophisticated software, the right tools can make all the difference.
Conclusion: Taking Action Now
The time to act is now. With the right preparation and understanding, utilities can position themselves for success in the evolving landscape of BVLOS operations.
In summary, Tactien is here to guide you through this journey. We are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of BVLOS and ensuring that your operations are not only compliant but also optimized for success.
