The Netherlands is taking an important step in the future of unmanned aviation through the development of its first permanent BVLOS test area above the North Sea. Located off the coast between Katwijk aan Zee and the Port of Rotterdam, the new airspace will provide a dedicated environment where drones can operate Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) under controlled conditions.
BVLOS operations are widely recognized as essential for unlocking the full societal and economic value of drones. Flying beyond the visual range of the pilot enables longer distances, more efficient missions and new applications that are difficult or impossible today. Examples include inspections of wind farms, dikes and critical infrastructure, medical and urgent logistics, support for emergency services, maritime operations and security-related use cases.
The new test area is being developed with Unmanned Valley as the operational base for take-off, landing and support activities. By creating a structured environment for testing technology, procedures and operational concepts, the project will generate valuable experience for future BVLOS deployment in the Netherlands. Insights from the program are expected to contribute to wider national frameworks for advanced drone operations.
A Strategic National Collaboration
The project is the result of close cooperation between the Province of South Holland, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, the Ministry of Defence and a consortium of specialist organizations including MovingDot, AirHub Consultancy, To70 and NLR. This collaboration brings together expertise in aviation, innovation, safety, policy and operational implementation.
MovingDot’s Role
Within the project, MovingDot plays a leading role in project management and design. Our contribution focuses on translating ambition into a structured implementation program, coordinating stakeholders and ensuring progress across multiple work packages.
In addition, we support the design of the future operating concept and airspace solution, ensuring that the test area is not only innovative, but also safe, practical and aligned with regulatory requirements.
Our Contribution
Through our involvement in the BVLOS test area above the North Sea, MovingDot contributes to key initiatives in the Netherlands. The experience gained in this project will help shape future BVLOS corridors, operational frameworks and scalable drone integration across the country.