CASA has released a draft NPRM that would deregulate the use of remotely-piloted aircraft (RPA) with weights below 2 kg.
If implemented, operators would no longer need an Operator's Certificate or a Remote Pilot Certificate and CASA would have no oversight of operations.
"This would only apply in the standard operating conditions, which includes operations in visual line of sight, less than 400 feet above ground level, non-populous areas, more than 30 metres from people and outside controlled airspace," said Director of Aviation Safety John McCormick.
"Remotely piloted aircraft weighing more than two kilograms and all operations outside the standard conditions would still require approvals from CASA."
Standard conditions for non-regulated RPA are:
- Within line-of-sight of the operator
- Less than 400 feet AGL or over water
- Non-populated areas and more than 30 metres from anyone not involved in the operation
- Day VMC
- OCTA and outside PRD areas
- Greater than 3 nm from an aerodrome boundary
CASA's proposal follows an investigation that revealed small RPA have very low kinetic energy and therefore posed a low risk to people, property and other airspace users.
The NPRM also proposes three CAAPs covering training, certification and operation, and is open for comment until 16 June. Details are on the CASA website.