Brazilian “superdrone” certified for 30 km BVLOS flights

Brazilian drone company XMobots received authorisation from the Brazilian National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) for BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) flights up tot 30 kilometers and/or above 400 feet AGL (Above Ground Level) for the company’s Echar 20D drone.

In 2018 XMobots was the first Brazilian drone company to receive authorisation for flights above 400 feet (120 meters), issued for the RPA Arator 5B drone.

The new Echar 20D weighs approximately 7.6 kg and has a wingspan of about 2.13 meters. The drone can be used for mapping, georeferencing and inspection operations in agriculture.

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The new Echar 20D weighs approximately 7.6 kg and has a wingspan of about 2.13 meters. – Photo: XMobots

Autonomous operations

The drone is able to perform autonomous operations, can stay airborne between 120 and 180 minutes and can cover up till 7,100 hectares during a single flight, with a cruising speed of 79,2 km/hour. A catapult system is used for take-off, and a parachute for landing.

The ANAC authorisation increases the possibilities for flights beyond the visual line of sight in Brazil, not only in agriculture, but also in mining, forestry, infrastructure, and other sectors.

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A catapult system is used for take-off, and a parachute for landing. – Photo: XMobots

ANAC’s Airworthiness Superintendent, Roberto Honorato, highlighted the importance of this authorisation for commercial development of drones in Brazil. “National project developments like these are very important in order to give end users access to new technology, build a high-tech industry and create international relevance.”

Up to date, ANAC has certified more than 30 drone models from various companies. Currently, another 40 drones are in the authorisation process.

Long range drone operations are key elements in the future plans of XMobots. The latest authorisation is an important next step. – Photo: XMobots