RPAS Certification in Australia: What You Need to Know
With drones playing an increasingly important role across industries, obtaining an RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems) certification is essential for anyone seeking to operate drones commercially in Australia. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) regulates RPAS operations, and certification ensures pilots can fly legally and safely within Australia’s airspace.
What Is RPAS?
RPAS stands for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems, encompassing the aircraft (drone), its pilot, and any systems used to control the flight remotely. The term is commonly used by CASA to cover all forms of drone operations. An RPAS includes:
- The Drone: The physical unmanned aircraft.
- Remote Pilot: The individual responsible for operating the drone.
- Control Station: The equipment used to operate the drone, such as controllers and screens for live feed.
- Data Links: Communication systems connecting the drone to the control station.
Commercial RPAS operators must comply with strict CASA regulations to ensure safety, privacy, and efficiency.
Do You Need RPAS Certification?
If you’re flying a drone for commercial purposes, you’ll need the appropriate certification. Here’s why:
1. Legal Requirement
CASA mandates certification for all commercial RPAS operations. Without it, pilots risk severe penalties.
2. Access to Controlled Airspace
Certified pilots can apply for permissions to fly in controlled airspace or near people and infrastructure, greatly expanding the scope of possible operations.
3. Business Opportunities
Certification unlocks a wide range of career opportunities, as many industries require qualified drone operators for tasks like aerial surveying, inspections, and media production.
Types of RPAS Certifications in Australia
To operate RPAS commercially in Australia, you’ll need one or both of the following certifications:
1. RePL (Remote Pilot Licence)
The Remote Pilot Licence is the main certification required for individuals to operate drones commercially. The RePL ensures that pilots have the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to fly drones safely and legally.
Who Needs It?
- Pilots flying drones over 2kg.
- Operators working on jobs requiring approval for controlled airspace or specialised operations.
2. ReOC (Remote Operator Certificate)
The Remote Operator Certificate is issued to businesses or organisations, allowing them to conduct commercial drone operations. Operators fly under their company’s ReOC.
Who Needs It?
- Companies offering drone services for inspections, photography, or surveying.
- Businesses managing multiple pilots.
How to Obtain RPAS Certification in Australia
SkyMedia Training offers a CASA-approved RePL course, which covers both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Enrol in an Approved RePL Course
The first step is to enrol in a CASA-approved training course like the one offered by SkyMedia Training. This course ensures compliance with CASA’s requirements for RPAS operations.
Step 2: Complete Theoretical Training
The theory component includes:
- Air Law: Understanding Australian aviation regulations.
- Meteorology: Learning how weather affects drone flight.
- Human Factors: Covering decision-making and risk management during flight.
- Flight Principles: Exploring the physics of drone operations.
Step 3: Practical Flight Training
Once the theory is complete, practical training begins. This includes:
- Basic flight operations, including take-off and landing.
- Advanced manoeuvres and emergency procedures.
- Pre-flight and post-flight safety checks.
Step 4: Pass the CASA Flight Assessment
To receive your RePL, you must pass a CASA-approved practical assessment. This test evaluates your ability to operate a drone safely under real-world conditions.
What Are the Legal Requirements for RPAS Operations in Australia?
CASA has established strict guidelines to ensure the safety of RPAS operations. Here are the key legal requirements:
1. Operational Restrictions
- Drones must not fly higher than 120 metres (400 feet) above ground level.
- Operators must maintain visual line-of-sight (VLOS) with the drone at all times.
- Drones cannot fly within 5.5km of a controlled airport without CASA approval.
2. Risk Management and Safety
Certified pilots must conduct risk assessments before each flight to ensure safe operations. This includes checking weather conditions, identifying potential hazards, and ensuring the drone is fit for flight.
3. Documentation and Compliance
Operators must keep accurate records of their flights, including:
- Flight logs
- Maintenance records
- Risk assessments
Benefits of RPAS Certification
1. Expanded Career Opportunities
Industries such as agriculture, infrastructure, and media are increasingly adopting drones. RPAS certification ensures you’re qualified to meet the growing demand for professional drone services.
2. Operational Flexibility
Certified operators can perform more complex tasks, such as flying in controlled airspace, conducting night operations, and handling larger drones.
3. Competitive Advantage
Clients prefer working with certified operators who comply with legal and safety standards, giving you a significant edge in the industry.
Career Opportunities for Certified RPAS Operators
1. Aerial Surveying and Mapping
Drones are widely used for creating detailed topographical maps and conducting land surveys. This is essential for industries like construction and mining.
2. Infrastructure Inspections
Certified drone pilots inspect critical infrastructure such as bridges, solar farms, and power lines, providing high-resolution data without the need for costly scaffolding or manual inspections.
3. Agriculture
RPAS operators in agriculture use drones for:
- Crop monitoring
- Irrigation management
- Livestock tracking
4. Media and Entertainment
From cinematic shots in film production to dynamic commercial ads, RPAS operators are in high demand for their ability to capture stunning aerial footage.
Common Challenges in RPAS Operations
While RPAS technology offers incredible opportunities, pilots must also navigate several challenges:
- Airspace Restrictions: Operating near airports or in busy airspace requires careful planning and CASA approvals.
- Weather Conditions: Wind, rain, and low visibility can severely impact drone operations.
- Battery Life and Payload Management: Larger projects often require careful planning to manage power and equipment efficiently.
Conclusion
Obtaining RPAS certification is a vital step for anyone looking to operate drones commercially in Australia. Through SkyMedia Training’s RePL course, you’ll gain the knowledge and hands-on experience required to navigate the legal and operational complexities of RPAS. Whether you’re aiming to work in agriculture, infrastructure, or media, certification will open up a world of opportunities.
Take the first step toward a thriving drone career by enrolling in our comprehensive RePL course today!