UA Observer Does Not Extend VLOS Range

In plain language

An observer stands next to you and helps you watch out. They do not let you fly further away.

Requirement as structured

EASA guidance states that the remote pilot may be assisted by a UA observer who must be situated alongside the remote pilot and must not use aided vision. Their purpose is not to extend the range of the unmanned aircraft beyond the VLOS distance from the remote pilot, except in emergency situations such as an emergency landing far from the pilot's position, where binoculars may assist.

Original regulatory text

The remote pilot may be assisted by a UA observer helping them to keep the UA away from obstacles. The UA observer must be situated alongside the remote pilot in order to provide warnings to the remote pilot by supporting them in maintaining the required separation between the UA and any obstacle, including other air traffic. UA observers may also be used when the remote pilot conducts UAS operations in first-person view (FPV), which is a method used to control the UA with the aid of a visual system connected to the camera of the UA. In any case, including during FPV operations, the remote pilot is still responsible for the safety of the flight. As the UA observer is situated alongside the remote pilot and they must not use aided vision (e.g. binoculars), their purpose is not to extend the range of the UA beyond the VLOS distance from the remote pilot. Exceptions are emergency situations

Applies when

operation

VLOS

regulatory category

Open