BTP become first police force to launch BVLOS drone capability operated remotely from London HQ

The drones will be based at key locations across the network where there are spikes in trespass and other disruption incidents, and flown remotely from the force control room in London.

The majority of typical drone operations are conducted within the Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) of the pilot, which is around 500 meters for a small drone. However, the police are able to operate beyond this distance (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) using State Aircraft legislation.

BTP are the first force to obtain legal advice and use Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) routinely and regularly in support of policing, rather than just for emergencies.

As well as the relevant legal advice, its dedicated team have carried out significant work behind the scenes to ensure they are operating under a robust framework in which to fly safely.

Last month BTP hosted a launch event at one of the pilot sites in Leeds which involved a live demonstration of the drone capability with industry partners including Network Rail, Department for Transport, NPCC Drones, West Yorkshire Police, Northern Rail, and the British Transport Police Authority (BTPA).