EDM UAS Team Obtains FAA Visual Line of Sight Waiver

Written By Gregory Brenton

EDM’s Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) group has received a Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) waiver from the FAA, marking an important step forward in how we can support electric utility clients in the field.

This approval allows our team to expand drone operations beyond standard visual line-of-sight limitations, within defined and regulated conditions. The result is greater flexibility in how aerial data is captured across large and complex utility systems.

What the VLOS Waiver Allows

Under typical FAA rules, drone operators must keep their aircraft within direct visual sight at all times. While this approach supports safety, it can limit efficiency when working across long transmission corridors or remote infrastructure.

With the VLOS waiver, EDM can operate drones beyond direct line of sight under approved procedures. This enables:

  • Longer inspection routes without frequent repositioning

  • More consistent data capture across wide areas

  • Improved access to terrain that is difficult to reach on foot or by vehicle

These changes support a more scalable approach to aerial data collection.

Implications for Asset Management

Utility asset management depends on timely and accurate information. The ability to extend drone operations allows for broader coverage during each deployment, which can improve both the speed and consistency of inspections.

For clients, this can mean:

  • Increased inspection efficiency across transmission and distribution assets

  • Better visibility into asset conditions over time

  • More opportunities to identify potential issues before they escalate

Expanded aerial access helps support a shift toward more proactive maintenance strategies.

Supporting Virtual Inspection Workflows

The waiver also strengthens EDM’s ability to support virtual inspection processes. With drones covering longer distances, teams can capture complete datasets that feed into remote review and analysis workflows.

This supports:

  • Reduced reliance on in-person site visits

  • Easier collaboration between field and office teams

  • More comprehensive documentation for engineering and compliance needs

As utilities continue to adopt digital tools, consistent and high-quality field data becomes even more important.

Safety Considerations

Reducing field exposure remains a key priority. Expanded drone operations can help limit the need for personnel to work near energized equipment, steep terrain, or remote locations.

By collecting data remotely, teams can maintain awareness of asset conditions while lowering risk in the field. The waiver does not replace safety protocols, but it provides another tool to manage exposure more effectively.

Reliability and System Performance

More frequent and consistent inspections contribute to improved system reliability. With better data, utilities can prioritize maintenance and address issues earlier in their lifecycle.

Over time, this approach can help reduce unexpected outages and support more stable system performance.

Looking Forward

The FAA VLOS waiver adds flexibility to EDM’s UAS program and supports ongoing efforts to integrate aerial data into utility workflows. As regulations and technology continue to evolve, we will continue refining how these tools are applied in practical, field-driven ways.

Gregory Brenton