Drone Flight Modes Explained: VLOS, EVLOS, and BVLOS

How Far Can Your Drone Actually Fly?

Yeah, we hear this all the time:

"Can my drone fly beyond what I can see?"
"What are the legal and technical limits?"
"Which mode is best for inspections or logistics?"

Let's break it down. No jargon. No fluff.

There are three flight modes every drone operator needs to know:

VLOS – Visual Line of Sight

Max Distance: ≤500m
This is basic, close-range flying.
You can see the drone. You're in full control.

You'll need:

• RC link

• Real-time image transmission

Great for:

• Aerial photography

• Quick visual inspections

  
  

EVLOS – Extended Visual Line of Sight

Distance: 1–3 km
You've got a team. You've got observers.
You can't see the drone, but someone can—and they're talking to you.

You'll need:

• Visual observers

• Strong comms & coordination

Perfect for:

• Pipeline inspections

• Mapping over wider areas

  
  

BVLOS – Beyond Visual Line of Sight

Distance: Unlimited
You're not seeing the drone. No one is. But it's smart enough to handle itself.

You'll need:

• Autonomous navigation

• Redundant communication systems

Best for:

• Long-distance cargo delivery

• Power grid inspection

• Coastal patrol

• Offshore missions

Why It Matters

Choosing the right flight mode isn't just about rules—it's about results.

Use the wrong one?
You waste time, money, and data.

Pick the right one?
You scale operations, stay compliant, and deliver faster.

Real Talk from the Field

We've seen clients in oil & gas switch from VLOS to BVLOS for pipeline work.
End result?
2x coverage area, half the manpower.

The tech is ready.
The regulations are catching up.
Are you?

FAQs

Q: Can I fly BVLOS without special permission?
Usually no. In most countries, BVLOS requires regulatory approval or certification.

Q: Which mode is best for industrial inspection?
EVLOS and BVLOS. VLOS just doesn’t cover enough ground.

Q: What drones support all three modes?
Our ZIYAN fleet—including Grey Whale G1 and Falcon 10—are built for EVLOS and BVLOS operations.

Bottom Line

Understand the mode.
Choose it wisely.
And you'll fly smarter, not harder.

Learn more about ZIYAN UAV Solutions and discover which platform fits your mission.