| The Monelison Volunteer Fire Department is proud to announce that it has been granted a special exception by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to operate its drone beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). This milestone marks a significant advancement in the department’s ability to respond to emergencies with greater efficiency and precision.
Previously, FAA regulations required that the drone remain within the visual line of sight of an observer during flight operations. This limitation often forced the department to reallocate personnel and resources mid-operation, impacting mission focus and response time. With the new BVLOS exception, the department can now deploy its drone more freely across wider areas, enhancing its ability to serve the community.
“This exception is a game-changer for us,” said Joey Malott, Fire Chief of the Monelison Volunteer Fire Department. “We worked diligently to meet all FAA requirements, and we’re proud to be among the few departments nationwide to receive this level of operational freedom.”
Since launching its drone program five months ago, the department has deployed the drone multiple times each month. It has proven invaluable in locating hard-to-access fires, assisting law enforcement, and searching for missing persons. Due to its success, the department is actively exploring the addition of a second drone to further expand its capabilities.
The Monelison Volunteer Fire Department remains committed to leveraging technology to enhance public safety and emergency response. This FAA exception is a testament to the department’s dedication to innovation and excellence in service. |
