The Civil Aviation Safety Authority has stated that hours logged under Recreational Aviation Australia operations will still count toward general aviation licences.
CASR Part 61, which has been under constant scrutiny since it was introduced in September, appears to exclude RA-Aus hours by stating that "Flight training for a PPL can be provided by CASA authorised flying schools. These schools need to hold a Part 141 or Part 142 certificate issued by CASA."
According to the regulator, RA-Aus hours still count as aeronautical experience regardless of this statement.
"A person could the training under another system, such as overseas or under the RA-Aus system and recognition would be given to that training," a CASA spokesperson said in response to Australian Flying's query. "The experience required in that case must be gained in aircraft as per regulation 61.545 – note reference to aeroplane and not to registered or recognised aeroplanes.
"A key feature of Part 61 is the requirement for a person to demonstrate competency in the units of competency for the licence to a Part 141 operator – this is consistent with the old ‘recommendation’ check prior to the flight test.
"Under Part 61 an applicant for a PPL must meet the provisions in regulation 61.235 and that includes a person certifying the applicant meets the requirements for the grant of the licence. Only then can the applicant take the flight test. It is up to the Part 141 operator to ensure all of the training has been completed.
"Answering your direct question, yes RA-Aus hours do count towards the requirements for the grant of the RPL, PPL and CPL."
Some general aviation schools use recreational aircraft as a cheaper way for students to get into flying, with the aim to upgrade to GA licences later on. Some of these schools became concerned that Part 61 would prevent that from happening in the future.