GRAND FORKS, N.D. – The Northern Plains UAS Test Site (NPUASTS) has successfully assisted the Grand Forks Fire Department (GFFD) in obtaining a Tactical Beyond Visual Line of Sight (TBVLOS) waiver (91.113) from the Federal Aviation Administration. The granting of this waiver that took effect on July 19, marks a significant advancement in public safety and emergency response capabilities in Grand Forks, ND, and East Grand Forks, MN.

The TBVLOS waiver allows first responders to operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), or drones, beyond visual line of sight in extreme emergency situations, properly allocating resources to safeguard human life. This includes scenarios such as assessing large fires, conducting aerial searches, or locating missing individuals in challenging environments.

“This waiver enhances our situational awareness and increases safety for our firefighters,” said Chief Gary Lorenz with the Grand Forks Fire Department. “For example, utilizing a thermal sensor on our drone will enable personnel to assess the situation from beyond a direct line of sight, which will ultimately provide for faster decision-making ensuring the community receives swift aid, and at the same time, reducing risk to our first responders.”

The NPUASTS team assisted in training 11 first responders in UAS operations and flight protocols. This collaboration included developing comprehensive safety, maintenance, aircraft operations manuals, and concept of operations documentation, which were essential for securing the TBVLOS waiver.

“This approval is a significant milestone. For years, I’ve shared a vision with GFFD on how impactful UAS can be in emergency situations for the citizens of Grand Forks,” said Erin Roesler, Deputy Executive Director of NPUASTS. “Having worked with Chief Lorenz for over five years now, it’s a wonderful capability to bring to the GFFD. The people of Grand Forks should be proud of how dedicated these firefighters are in continuing to enhance the ways they serve the city.”