First Person View (FPV) flying has become one of the most popular ways to operate drones and model aircraft. By using a live video feed from an onboard camera to devices such as goggles, smartphones, or tablets, pilots can enjoy a more immersive flying experience and greater control over positioning.

However, FPV flying also comes with important safety and operational requirements. One of the most important concepts to understand is Visual Line of Sight (VLOS).

What Is VLOS?

VLOS stands for Visual Line of Sight. In simple terms, it means the drone must remain visible to the operator or another designated person throughout the flight.

Keeping the aircraft within direct sight is essential for maintaining awareness of its position, direction, and surrounding airspace. The drone must be visible clearly enough to determine which way it is facing and to identify any nearby obstacles or other aircraft.

Direct sight means viewing the drone with the naked eye or with normal glasses or contact lenses if needed. It does not include the use of binoculars, telephoto lenses, smartphones, tablets, or FPV goggles.

What Is FPV Flying?

FPV, or First Person View, refers to flying a drone while watching a live video feed from the drone’s onboard camera. This feed is usually displayed through FPV goggles, a mobile device, or a screen connected to the aircraft.

FPV can improve the flying experience by providing a more immersive perspective, but it also reduces the pilot’s ability to fully observe the surrounding environment. This is why FPV flying is generally subject to additional safety requirements.

Why an Observer Is Important

When flying with FPV, the pilot may not always have a full understanding of the drone’s position in relation to surrounding people, structures, or aircraft. Depth perception is reduced when watching a flat screen or goggles, and peripheral awareness is also limited.

For this reason, FPV operation should be supported by an observer, sometimes called a spotter.

The observer should stand next to the pilot and remain in constant communication during the flight. At all times, at least one person — either the pilot or the observer — must be able to:

• keep the drone in direct visual sight
• clearly identify the drone’s direction of flight
• maintain awareness of the surrounding airspace
• help identify potential hazards, obstacles, or other aircraft

The observer does not necessarily need a formal pilot qualification, but they should understand their role and know what to watch for during the operation.

The Limitations of FPV Flying

Although FPV provides a highly engaging flight experience, it also has practical limitations.

When relying only on live video, the pilot may find it more difficult to:

• judge distance accurately
• estimate speed correctly
• detect objects approaching from the side
• remain aware of the full operating environment
• avoid unexpected obstacles or nearby aircraft

Because of these limitations, FPV should always be used responsibly and within applicable operating rules.

FPV Does Not Automatically Allow BVLOS Flight

A common misunderstanding is that using FPV equipment allows the pilot to fly far beyond normal sight range. This is not the case.

Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) refers to operations where the aircraft is no longer maintained within direct visual sight. FPV equipment alone does not replace the requirement for visual awareness in standard operations.

In other words, wearing FPV goggles or flying through a live camera feed does not mean the aircraft can be legally or safely flown beyond visual line of sight in normal open-category operations.

Safe FPV Flying Practices

To operate FPV more safely, pilots should follow a few basic principles:

• always ensure the drone can be visually monitored during flight
• use an observer when flying through FPV goggles or screens
• stay in close communication with the observer at all times
• choose a flying area with clear visibility and minimal surrounding hazards
• remain aware that the pilot is still responsible for the overall safety of the flight

Final Thoughts

FPV technology offers a unique and immersive way to fly drones, but it also introduces additional responsibility. Understanding the difference between FPV, VLOS, and BVLOS is essential for safe and compliant drone operation.

For most pilots, the key rule is simple: FPV does not replace the need for visual awareness. Whether you are flying recreationally, testing equipment, or operating in a professional environment, safe flight depends on maintaining control, situational awareness, and proper support from an observer when needed.