FPV Visual Observer Visual Requirements

In plain language

Your visual observer must keep eyes on the drone at all times using normal vision (or glasses/contacts). They cannot use binoculars except for brief moments to help spot the drone.

Requirement as structured

Visual Observers (VOs) during FPV operations should maintain VLOS with unaided vision (except corrective lenses) and only use binoculars momentarily.

Original regulatory text

Guidelines for VOs during FPV operations to watch the UA, and the surrounding airspace at all times to ensure safe operations. Guidelines for the responsibilities of VOs may include guidance, such as informing the observer how to maintain VLOS with the aircraft at all times, scan the surrounding airspace for hazards, and be able to see the aircraft with unaided vision, except in the case of vision that is corrected by the use of eyeglasses or contact lenses. Vision aids, such as binoculars, may be used only momentarily to enhance situational awareness.

Applies when

country

United States

operation

recreational

regulatory category

General