Volanti drone secures nationwide BVLOS approval for US operations

The Volanti drone from Carbonix, a prominent Australian provider of long-range UAV platform solutions, has received a nationwide waiver for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations in uncontrolled airspace across the USA.

The Volanti, Carbonix’s fully electric vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drone, is celebrated for its precision, adaptability and extended flight capabilities. Designed for efficiency, it excels in conducting rapid aerial surveys over vast and challenging terrain.

This waiver, obtained through Carbonix’s US partner ArgenTech Solutions, allows Volanti drones to operate beyond the traditional line-of-sight limitations, unlocking new potential for UAV missions and significantly expanding operational flexibility. It marks a major milestone in enabling scalable long-range data collection missions, leveraging Carbonix’s advanced UAV platforms in combination with ArgenTech’s deep expertise in UAV operations and regulatory compliance in critical industries including agriculture, environmental monitoring, energy infrastructure and more.

Broader range of applications

ArgenTech supported the Volanti earlier this year as it flew missions with Quebec-based Exo Drone to combat a devastating bushfire season in Canada. It proved particularly effective in identifying wildfires sparked by lightning strikes which, if left unchecked, can pose significant threats. It is among the first Australian fixed-wing VTOL drones to execute fully automated BVLOS missions for commercial purposes.

Carbonix CEO Philip van der Burg said the waiver enables the Volanti to serve a broader range of applications with greater flexibility and cost-effectiveness and represents a pivotal moment for both organizations. “Our drones are designed for long-range, high-endurance missions, and this approval validates their role as leaders in the UAV space,” he said.

“With ArgenTech Solutions operating the Volanti in the US, we are excited to bring our innovative technology to a broader market,” Van den Burg added.

ArgenTech Solutions CEO Brian Veroneau said the waiver is expected to drive the adoption of UAVs for missions in industries that demand reliable, long-range capabilities. “The waiver positions Carbonix and the Volanti as frontrunners in the rapidly evolving UAV industry, setting new benchmarks for safety, scalability and innovation,” he said.