WildDrone June 2024 Expedition: BVLOS Documentation

This repository contains open-source documentation from the WildDrone expedition conducted in June 2024 at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya. The materials shared here provide transparency and serve as a resource for advancing safe and compliant Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) UAS operations.

Repository Contents

1. 001_WD_June24_BVLOS_Application.pdf

The application submitted to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), including:

• Description of the proposed operations.
• Air and ground risk assessments.
• Mitigation measures and operational procedures.

2. 002_WD_June24_Operational_Checklists.pdf

A comprehensive set of operational checklists and contingency and emergency procedures designed to ensure safe UAS operations.

3. 003_WD_June24_Sample_Mission_Sheet.pdf

A sample mission sheet that was completed after each drone mission to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and record mission details.

4. 004_WD_June24_Import_Permit.pdf

The temporary import permit issued by the KCAA, allowing the use of drones during the expedition.

5. 005_WD_June24_Operational_Authorisation.pdf

The BVLOS operational authorisation granted by the KCAA, outlining the scope and conditions for the operations.

Purpose

This repository is part of the WildDrone project and aims to:

1. Share knowledge with the research and UAS community.
2. Provide a real-world example of BVLOS operation planning and execution.
3. Enable discussion on best practices for drone missions in wildlife conservation.

How to Use This Repository

• For researchers and students: Use these materials as a reference for conducting similar operations or understanding regulatory applications for BVLOS.
• For regulators and UAS operators: Examine the processes and safety measures taken to enable compliant and safe operations.
• For the public: Gain insight into the WildDrone project and how UAS technology is applied to wildlife conservation.

Contact

For questions, feedback, or collaboration opportunities, feel free to reach out:
Guy Maalouf
Email: maaloufguy@gmail.com
Affiliation: University of Southern Denmark / WildDrone.eu

Acknowledgements

Special thanks to the WildDrone team, Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), Kenya Flight Labs (KFL), Kenya Air Force (KAF), and the Ol Pejeta Conservancy for their support and collaboration during this expedition.