AutoSpray Systems have obtained an Operational Authorisation from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to conduct Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations in an Atypical Air Environment (AAE).
This milestone marks a significant advancement in agricultural drone applications, unlocking new commercial opportunities across multiple sectors.
With this approval, AutoSpray Systems is authorised to operate its 120kg agricultural drone for spraying liquids and spreading granules across agriculture, horticulture, forestry, and many other use cases. Unlike previous restrictions that limited operations to within 500m of the remote pilot, this BVLOS AAE approval allows them to operate without distance limitations, subject to location-specific risk assessment.
The new authorisation allows AutoSpray Systems to make a profound impact in sectors such as:
- Peatland Restoration – Enabling large-scale reseeding and rehabilitation of degraded peatlands.
- Paludiculture Crop Seeding – Supporting the cultivation of wetland-adapted crops to enhance biodiversity and carbon sequestration as part of work with DEFRA and the SEAD Artists consortium.
- Reforestation Projects – Deploying drones for tree seeding and afforestation in challenging terrains where human access is impractical.
Andy Sproson, Director of AutoSpray Systems said: “Historically, our low-level drone operations were restricted by distance regulations, limiting their full potential. ·
“This authorisation significantly expands our ability to scale sustainable land management solutions, reinforcing our commitment to innovation in aerial agriculture.”
Achieving BVLOS approval is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of multiple industry and academic experts. This includes SEAD artists – a consortium of organisations and individuals with the sole aim to become a singular voice and point of contact for the agriculture and environmental industry when they are looking to interact with drones and new technology – speaking with one voice.
It is an initiative that supports an evidence-based data approach to facilitate environment and agriculture which will be as inclusive of all users and operators, and representative bodies as is reasonably possible.
Andy Sproson added: “We extend our sincere gratitude to the SEAD Artists and would like to extend a special thanks to the RPAS team at the Civil Aviation Authority and all other colleagues involved in shaping the BVLOS AAE policy whose support has been instrumental in achieving this milestone.”
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