UK CAA Approves BVLOS Drone Flights Over Rail Network

In a major advancement for drone technology in the UK, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has granted Operational Authority to Drone Major, a prominent independent drone advisory group. This approval permits the first-ever beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone flights over the UK’s Critical National Infrastructure, setting a historic precedent for the industry.

This authorisation marks the first time BVLOS drones are approved for operation in non-segregated airspace above key infrastructure, positioning the UK as a global leader in drone innovation.

Initially, the approval allows for long-range drone patrols over the UK rail network and paves the way for broader BVLOS operations across sectors such as energy, defence, utilities, border security, and other sensitive infrastructures.

This milestone was made possible through Network Rail’s support and funding, with immediate trials planned for a 12-kilometre route between Wolverhampton and Sandwell & Dudley Station. These trials aim to improve railway safety, enhance response times, and deliver multi-million-pound savings annually.

Drone Major’s Digital Tethering™ technology, previously trialled along rail corridors south-east of Wolverhampton and the Severn Valley Railway, plays a critical role. It creates a virtual ‘safety corridor’, similar to aviation lanes, ensuring the drones remain controlled and precise. The drones will deliver real-time visual data, helping swiftly detect and manage trespass incidents, thus reducing train delays and potentially saving lives.

The Digital Tethering™ system employs cutting-edge onboard navigation with ground-based innovations, providing precise positioning even in GPS-compromised zones, such as under rail tunnels or in dense urban areas. It significantly enhances the safety and operational reliability of unmanned aerial systems during infrastructure monitoring.

Drone Major plans to expand trials with additional national infrastructure partners soon.

Sophie O’Sullivan, Director of Future of Flight, UK CAA, stated:

“We’re working with companies to make drone operations beyond visual line of sight a safe and everyday reality, contributing to the modernisation of UK airspace and enabling new technology into our skies.
By supporting projects ranging from critical infrastructure inspections to consumer deliveries, we are gathering essential data to shape future policies and regulations, and support the growth of the aerospace industry.”

Robert Garbett, Founder and CEO of Drone Major Group, said:

“The CAA’s approval of operational authority for trials of BVLOS flights marks a landmark moment for the drone industry.
This milestone opens up new opportunities to unlock and transform the UK’s Critical National Infrastructure, especially in densely built environments where traditional methods often fall short. It sets a new benchmark for safety and efficiency, positioning the UK as a world leader in drone innovation while also unlocking innovation to support UK plc.”