Visual line of sight (VLOS)
Also known as: VLOS, line of sight, BVLOS
Keeping a drone close enough that the pilot can see it with their own eyes during the whole flight, a basic requirement in most drone rules.
Updated
What it means
Visual line of sight means the pilot, or in some cases a spotter next to them, can see the drone directly at all times, without relying on the screen or goggles. Most countries require it for recreational and many commercial flights. Flying beyond it, often called BVLOS, usually needs special permission.
The reason is safety. A pilot who sees the drone can spot other aircraft, birds, obstacles and people, judge distance and react quickly. The live feed shows only what is in front of the camera, which may not be where the danger is.
Long advertised transmission ranges are far beyond what you can actually see.
How it works in practice
Plan shots that keep the drone within comfortable visual range, typically a few hundred meters depending on size, light and background. Small drones, especially a sub-250 g drone, disappear against trees and sky very quickly, often long before the video link weakens.
For FPV flying with goggles, many rules require a spotter who keeps visual contact while the pilot flies through the goggles. For self-filming with ActiveTrack, a spotter is also wise, since the rider cannot watch the drone.
Bright drone lights and high-visibility propellers make it easier to keep the drone in sight, especially at dusk or against a busy forest.
What to watch out for
Flying behind a hill, a building or a tree line breaks line of sight and often the signal too. The drone may trigger Return to Home or lose control at the worst moment.
It is easy to lose orientation of a small drone at a distance, not knowing which way it faces. Keep it closer than you think you need, and use the map view to confirm direction.
Rules differ between countries and situations, and they change. Treat this as general guidance rather than legal advice. Check local regulations before every trip abroad and follow them.
How RawClip handles it
Footage from safe, legal flights is the only kind worth sharing. Upload your aerial clips with your ground footage, and RawClip combines the best moments from both into one highlight.