Why You Need an RePL Course and How to Get Certified
What Is an RePL Course?
A Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) course is designed to teach you everything you need to know to become a certified drone pilot in Australia. This qualification is essential if you want to operate drones commercially—particularly those weighing more than 2kg. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) requires commercial drone operators to hold an RePL, and without it, you’ll be limited to flying only small drones for recreational purposes or under very restricted conditions.
At SkyMedia Training, we offer a comprehensive 7kg RePL course that gives you the knowledge, skills, and certification to fly drones safely and legally in various industries. If you’re looking to work as a drone pilot in sectors like construction, real estate, media, agriculture, or surveying, our RePL course is the first step to launching your professional drone career.
Why Do You Need an RePL?
There are several reasons why obtaining your Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) is essential if you want to fly drones professionally in Australia. Here’s why the RePL is more than just a requirement—it’s a valuable certification that opens up exciting career opportunities.
1. Legally Fly Drones Over 2kg for Commercial Purposes
One of the main reasons to enroll in an RePL course is that it allows you to legally fly drones over 2kg for commercial purposes. In Australia, drones weighing more than 2kg are regulated by CASA, and you must have an RePL to fly them commercially. Without an RePL, you’ll be limited to drones under 2kg, and even then, you’ll be restricted to standard operating conditions (such as staying within line of sight and away from people).
With a certified RePL, you can operate drones up to 7kg, which includes professional-grade drones used in industries like aerial photography, surveying, and agriculture. Larger drones often carry better cameras, sensors, and equipment, enabling you to take on more complex and higher-paying projects.
2. Access to Advanced Flight Permissions
An RePL also opens up additional operational capabilities. With an RePL, you can apply for special permissions from CASA to:
- Fly at night
- Operate in controlled airspace (with approval)
- Fly near people or buildings under certain conditions
- Operate beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) (with additional certification)
These advanced flight permissions allow you to tackle more challenging projects and take your drone operations to the next level. Whether you’re working in urban environments or conducting night inspections, an RePL ensures you have the skills and legal authority to do so.
3. Improved Career Opportunities
As drone technology becomes more widely adopted, businesses across various industries are incorporating drones into their operations. The demand for qualified drone pilots has never been higher. With an RePL, you’ll be positioned to work in a variety of sectors, including:
- Real estate: Capture aerial footage and photos to enhance property listings.
- Media and film production: Provide stunning drone shots for films, commercials, and events.
- Agriculture: Help monitor crop health, livestock, and irrigation systems.
- Construction and surveying: Map and inspect construction sites, infrastructure, and land.
- Public safety and emergency services: Assist in search and rescue operations, fire monitoring, and disaster relief.
Having an RePL not only makes you more employable, but it also gives you the flexibility to work as a freelance drone pilot, offering your services to multiple industries or starting your own drone business.
4. Meet CASA’s Safety Standards
Safety is the top priority when it comes to flying drones, especially in commercial settings. CASA has strict regulations in place to ensure that all drone operations are conducted safely. By completing an RePL course, you’ll learn the safety protocols necessary to meet CASA’s safety standards, including:
- Understanding airspace classifications
- Conducting pre-flight risk assessments
- Maintaining proper separation from people and property
- Knowing what to do in emergency situations
These safety skills aren’t just about following the rules—they’re about protecting people, property, and your equipment during flight.
5. Expand Your Services with a Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC)
Once you have your RePL, you’ll be eligible to apply for a Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC), which allows you to operate your own drone business or company. The ReOC is required for companies or individuals who want to offer commercial drone services. If you’re planning to hire additional drone pilots or conduct complex operations, having both an RePL and ReOC will give you full control over your drone operations.
SkyMedia Training offers an ReOC Assistance Package to help you navigate the application process, ensuring your drone operations meet all CASA requirements.
How to Enroll in SkyMedia Training’s 7kg RePL Course
Enrolling in our 7kg RePL course is easy. We offer nationwide training, with classes available in cities across Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and more. Here’s how you can get started:
Step 1: Visit Our Website
Go to our 7kg RePL course page and browse through the course details. We provide full information on the course structure, what you’ll learn, and the dates and locations of upcoming sessions.
Step 2: Choose Your Location
Select a course date and location that suits you. If you’re unsure about the nearest location, don’t worry—we frequently offer training courses across Australia and can even provide on-site training for groups or businesses.
Step 3: Enroll Online
Once you’ve chosen your course, simply book online through our website. We offer secure payment options, and our team will follow up with confirmation and additional course information.
Step 4: Attend the Course
Arrive at the course location on your selected date, and our team of experienced instructors will guide you through both the theory and practical components of the course. Our in-person training ensures you receive personalised support, hands-on experience, and real-world insights to become a confident and certified drone pilot.
What’s Involved in Our RePL Course?
SkyMedia Training’s 7kg RePL course is designed to provide you with everything you need to operate drones safely, legally, and effectively in a commercial environment. Our course includes both theory and practical training, ensuring that you gain a comprehensive understanding of drone systems, CASA regulations, and hands-on piloting experience.
1. Theory Training
The theory component of our RePL course covers the following key topics:
- Drone systems and components: Learn how drones operate and understand the technology behind them.
- Aviation knowledge: Familiarise yourself with the fundamentals of aviation, including aerodynamics, flight physics, and meteorology.
- CASA regulations: We’ll guide you through the CASA rules that govern drone operations in Australia, including airspace classifications, safety protocols, and reporting requirements.
- Flight planning: You’ll learn how to create comprehensive flight plans that account for weather, airspace restrictions, and risk management.
2. Practical Flight Training
Our course places a strong emphasis on practical flight training, giving you the opportunity to fly real drones under the supervision of experienced instructors. You’ll gain hands-on experience in:
- Pre-flight procedures: Learn how to conduct pre-flight checks and risk assessments to ensure the safety of each flight.
- Flight operations: Practice flying drones in various conditions, including take-offs, landings, and in-flight maneuvers.
- Post-flight procedures: Understand the importance of logging your flight data, conducting equipment maintenance, and reporting any incidents.
Our private flying field and airport home-base provide the perfect environment for training, giving you access to safe, controlled spaces where you can practice your skills in a professional setting.
Why Choose SkyMedia Training for Your RePL Course?
When it comes to choosing the right RePL course provider, here’s why SkyMedia Training stands out:
1. 100% In-Person Training
Unlike other drone schools that rely on online modules, SkyMedia Training provides 100% in-person, face-to-face training for both the theory and practical components of the course. This means you’ll have direct access to experienced instructors throughout your training, ensuring you get personalised guidance and hands-on learning.
2. Industry Experts and Manned Aviation Experience
Our instructors are not only certified drone pilots but also manned aviation pilots with years of experience in both industries. This means you’re learning from professionals who understand the complexities of airspace management, aviation safety, and commercial drone operations.
3. Real-World Experience
SkyMedia Training is actively involved in the drone industry through our sister company, Flying Glass, which provides commercial drone services. This gives our instructors real-world insights into the challenges and opportunities in the industry, ensuring you receive practical knowledge that goes beyond the classroom.
4. Private Flying Field and Airport Access
Our unique facilities, including a private flying field and airport home-base, allow us to provide high-quality practical training. This sets us apart from other providers, giving you the best possible environment to develop your skills.
What Happens After You Complete the RePL Course?
Once you complete our 7kg RePL course, you’ll be fully certified to operate drones commercially in Australia. Here’s what you can do next:
1. Apply for Advanced Permissions
With your RePL in hand, you can apply to CASA for advanced flight permissions, including night operations and flying in controlled airspace.
2. Explore Career Opportunities
As a certified drone pilot, you’ll be able to pursue a variety of career opportunities, from real estate photography to agriculture and media production. The drone industry is booming, and having your RePL gives you the flexibility to explore different industries and projects.
3. Consider the ReOC
If you’re looking to start your own drone business, the next step after your RePL is to apply for a Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC). SkyMedia Training offers an ReOC Assistance Package to help you through the application process, ensuring your business is fully compliant with CASA regulations.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Getting your RePL is the key to unlocking exciting new opportunities in the drone industry. Whether you’re looking to start a new career or add drone services to your existing business, our 7kg RePL course will give you the knowledge, skills, and certification you need to succeed.
Enroll today and start your journey toward becoming a certified drone pilot!