The Civil Aviation Safety Authority announced a restructure this week that includes a general aviation branch as first revealed by Australian Flying in December.
To be called the General, Recreational and Sport Aviation Branch, the new group has been established to create a stronger focus on the GA sector, especially important in the implementation of CASR 149 on Approved Self Administering Aviation Organisations.
"I believe that a vibrant general aviation sector is important for the health of the aviation community as a whole," said CASA CEO and Director of Aviation Safety Shane Carmody. "While CASA's influence on the strength and performance of the general aviation sector is limited, we can play a role by ensuring regulatory requirements are reasonable and fit for purpose.
"We must also ensure we minimise regulatory red tape and make the processes for gaining authorisations and approvals as smooth as possible. The General, Recreational and Sport Aviation branch will be the key contact point between general aviation and CASA.
"Responsibilities of the branch will include entry control, surveillance, regulatory services and oversight of the new Part 149 of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations."
In the general restructure, CASA has also split the Aviation Group into two divisions: National Operations and Standards and Regulatory Services and Surveillance division. The position of executive manager Regulatory Services and Surveillance division has been filled by new recruit Peter White, who has arrived at CASA with credentials in transport security and regulatory reform. White is also a recreational pilot.
The new structure is on the CASA website.