FAA Authorizes First Beyond-Visual-Line-of-Sight Drone Flight From U.S. Coast Over Gulf of America
Why It MattersWaiver-based approval under Section 927 sets a faster regulatory route for long-range uncrewed operations, which could extend drone use into offshore energy logistics and infrastructure inspection.
The Federal Aviation Administration announced on Monday that it has issued the first authorization of its kind for a drone to fly beyond the operator's visual line of sight from the U.S. coastline over the Gulf of America. The agency described the move as a milestone in advancing American drone dominance and the future of uncrewed aviation, enabling long-range commercial drone operations over the high seas.
The authorization allows Skyways to operate its autonomous V2 vertical takeoff and landing aircraft from Shell's SPLC facility in Gibson, Louisiana, to a Shell platform in the Gulf. The flight will include a pipeline right-of-way inspection and a simulated delivery of equipment to the platform.
The FAA granted the approval under Section 927 of the Reauthorization Act of 2024, which allows the agency to approve certain drone operations through a waiver rather than through rulemaking or an exemption. The agency said this authority provides a pathway to safely advance innovative operations and expand the capabilities of the nation's drone industry.
Michael Kratsios, Assistant to the President for Science and Technology and Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, said the Trump Administration envisions a future in which advanced drone operations are routine, and called the authorization an important step toward that vision. Acting FAA Deputy Administrator Liam McKenna said the agency is working with industry to move beyond traditional operating limitations and enable the next generation of commercial drone operations.
