Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has introduced new technical requirements for Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA). The new rules are contained in the Part 101 (Unmanned Aircraft and Rockets) Manual of Standards (MOS) 2019. Primarily they effect commercial and professional RPA pilots and operators, however, most of these rules will not come into effect for another 12 months. This is to ensure industry is ready, particularly RPA training organisations. CASA is currently developing guidance material to help with the transition, including advisory circulars and templates.
Importantly, two rules do take effect immediately. The first is the introduction of specific requirements for the on-going approval of extended visual line of sight (EVLOS) operations; the second is the requirement for a buffer between any RPA and any controlled airspace above it.
The other rules due to commence in 12 months include training and competency standards for remote pilot licences (RePL) and standing approvals for certain kinds of operations near aerodromes. Requirements for RePL training instructors will commence in 18 months.
For more information visit:
https://www.casa.gov.au/about-us/news-article/new-technical-requirements-drones