Part 108: The Door to Autonomous Aviation
The FAA's new framework makes routine Beyond Visual Line of Sight operations possible for the first time. Here's what you need to know.
Understanding Part 108
A New Chapter in Aviation
Part 108 is the FAA's regulatory framework for routine Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations of unmanned aircraft. It represents the most significant expansion of commercial drone operations since Part 107 launched in 2016.
Under Part 107, most commercial drone operations require the pilot to maintain visual contact with the aircraft at all times. This visual line of sight (VLOS) requirement fundamentally limits what drones can do—you can only fly as far as you can see.
Part 108 changes this. For the first time, operators can fly beyond visual line of sight as a matter of routine—not through waivers and exemptions, but through a defined certification pathway with clear requirements.
This isn't just a regulatory update. It's the FAA's first step toward normalizing autonomous operations in civilian airspace.
1000 × 600
Part 107 vs 108 visual comparison—infographic showing capability expansion
Is Part 108 Right for You?
Who Needs Part 108?
Part 108 matters for operators whose missions require flying beyond what a pilot can see.
Infrastructure Inspection
Power lines, pipelines, rail corridors, and other linear infrastructure that extends beyond visual range.
Delivery Operations
Package delivery, medical supply transport, and logistics operations covering meaningful distances.
Agricultural Operations
Large-scale crop monitoring, precision agriculture, and agricultural spraying across extensive properties.
Public Safety
Search and rescue, emergency response, and law enforcement operations requiring extended range.
Surveying and Mapping
Large-area surveys, photogrammetry projects, and mapping operations impractical under VLOS.
Scalable Drone Operations
Any business model requiring operating at scale—BVLOS is likely essential.
If you're currently operating under Part 107 and finding the VLOS requirement limits your potential, Part 108 is almost certainly relevant to your future.
Requirements
What Part 108 Requires
Part 108 certification isn't trivial—it requires demonstrated commitment to safety and operational excellence.
Safety Management System (SMS)
A formal system for identifying hazards, assessing risks, implementing mitigations, and continuously improving safety.
Personnel Qualifications
Remote pilots must meet specific training and certification requirements, with documented proficiency and recurrent training.
Aircraft Requirements
Aircraft must meet airworthiness standards and be equipped with appropriate systems for BVLOS operations.
Operational Procedures
Documented procedures for flight planning, risk assessment, crew coordination, emergency response, and normal operations.
Maintenance Programs
Structured maintenance tracking and documentation ensuring aircraft remain airworthy.
Airspace Integration
Compliance with airspace requirements, including working with Air Defense Service Providers (ADSPs).
Comparison
How Part 108 Differs from Part 107
If Part 107 is a driver's license, Part 108 is closer to an airline operating certificate. The difference isn't just in what you can do—it's in the level of organizational capability required.
| Aspect | Part 107 | Part 108 |
|---|---|---|
| Visual requirement | Line of sight required | Beyond visual line of sight permitted |
| Certification | Individual pilot | Organization-level certificate |
| Safety management | Not required | SMS required |
| Documentation | Minimal | Comprehensive |
| Ongoing compliance | Limited | Continuous obligations |
| Complexity | Straightforward | Significant |
| Capability | Limited range | Extended operations |
800 × 500
Future of autonomous aviation—urban air mobility, scaled operations, advanced autonomy
The Future
Part 108 Is Just the Beginning
It's tempting to view Part 108 as the destination. It's not. It's the first chapter in a much longer story.
The FAA has signaled that autonomous aviation will continue to expand. Part 108 at 400 feet AGL is the most conservative starting point—proving concepts, building trust, establishing precedent. As the industry demonstrates safety and the technology matures, expect:
- Higher altitude operations
- Operations in more complex environments
- Greater autonomy and reduced human oversight
- Deeper integration with manned aviation
- New operational categories we haven't yet imagined
The operators who build strong foundations now will be positioned to lead as the airspace opens up.
Ready to Start Your Part 108 Journey?
Whether you're exploring BVLOS for the first time or ready to begin certification, Virabelo is here to help. Let's talk about your operation and map out the path forward.