Which of the following best describes the term “VLOS” in sUAS operations?

The term "VLOS" in sUAS operations stands for "Visual Line of Sight." This concept is crucial in regulations regarding unmanned aerial systems because it ensures that the remote pilot can maintain unaided visual contact with the sUAS during its operation. This visibility is essential for the pilot to assess the system's position, orientation, and the surrounding environment, which aids in safe operation and avoids potential collisions with other aircraft, obstacles, or individuals.

The importance of visual line of sight is rooted in safety protocols, as having direct visual contact allows the pilot to maintain situational awareness and respond to any unforeseen circumstances rapidly. Regulatory bodies, such as the FAA, emphasize this requirement to enhance safety in sUAS operations, thus making it a cornerstone concept for operators to understand.

Other choices like "Video Line of Sight," "Vessel Launch of Sensing," and "Variable Light Operational System" are not applicable in this context, as they do not accurately represent what VLOS means in the framework of sUAS regulations and operations. These alternatives either describe unrelated concepts or lack relevance to the fundamental operating principles required for drone pilots.