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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drone-property-vlos-not-waivable

Can the FAA waive visual line of sight for a drone carrying someone else's property for hire?

No. That waiver is never issued for paid package carriage under Part 107.

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  1. Yes, with a visual observer
  2. No, that VLOS waiver is not issued ✔
  3. Yes, if the flight stays in one state

Why: VLOS is waivable for many Part 107 flights, but not to carry another person's property for compensation or hire. Flying such deliveries from a moving vehicle also cannot be waived.

Huh, didn't know that: Part 135 is the only path for small drones carrying another person's property for pay beyond VLOS.

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Why can't delivery drones go out of sight? Because out of sight means out of mind, and out of rules.
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References

Answer: No, that VLOS waiver is not issued. VLOS is waivable for many Part 107 flights, but not to carry another person's property for compensation or hire. Flying such deliveries from a moving vehicle also cannot be waived.

  1. AC 107-2A, 5.20 Certificate of Waiver www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_107-2A.pdf
    no waiver of this provision will be issued to allow the carriage of property of another by aircraft for compensation or hire.
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. FAA Package Delivery by Drone www.faa.gov/uas/advanced_operations/package_delivery_drone
    Part 135 certification is the only path for small drones to carry the property of another for compensation beyond visual line of sight.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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