Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Australia’s aviation regulatory framework, including rules for drone operations. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) enforces these regulations, ensuring safety for all airspace users, from commercial airlines to recreational drone pilots. The hierarchy of aviation rules starts with the Civil Aviation Act (CAA), which grants CASA its authority. This is followed by the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations (CASR), where Part 101 governs drones. Detailed technical standards are found in the Manual of Standards (MOS), while Civil Aviation Orders (CAO) provide additional directives. For further guidance, Advisory Circulars (AC) help operators navigate compliance with these regulations. Whether you’re flying a plane or a drone, these rules are essential to ensuring safety in Australian skies.

1. Civil Aviation Act (CAA)

  • The Civil Aviation Act 1988 provides the legal foundation for all aviation regulations in Australia, including the regulation of drones. It grants the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) the authority to regulate and enforce safety standards for all aircraft, including RPAS (drones).
    • Example: The CAA establishes CASA’s power to enforce safety regulations for drones and unmanned aircraft operators in Australian airspace.

2. Civil Aviation Safety Regulations (CASR)

  • The Civil Aviation Safety Regulations (CASR) 1998 contain specific regulations for drone operations. The relevant parts of the CASR include rules on drone certification, operational limits, and pilot qualifications.
    • Part 101 of CASR: This part specifically covers the regulation of Unmanned Aircraft and Rockets, which includes drones. It governs the safe operation of drones, defining the operational limits (e.g., flying within visual line of sight, altitude limits, restrictions near people or airports).
    • Example: CASR Part 101.237 defines when a person requires a remote pilot licence (RePL) to operate drones commercially in Australia.

3. Manual of Standards (MOS)

  • The Manual of Standards (MOS) provides detailed technical and operational standards that drone operators must adhere to. For drones, the Part 101 MOS provides specific requirements for conducting operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), night operations, and in controlled airspace, as well as standards for RePL training.
    • Example: The MOS for Part 101 sets the detailed requirements for training and assessment that CASA-approved drone training organizations must follow.

4. Civil Aviation Orders (CAO)

  • Civil Aviation Orders (CAO) provide additional directives and clarifications on operational safety. While CAOs cover a wide range of aviation topics, some apply specifically to RPAS operations, such as instructions on flight restrictions, airworthiness, and operational permissions.
    • Example: A CAO might provide further instructions on restrictions related to drone flights near emergency situations, such as fires or police operations, to ensure safety in these areas.

5. Advisory Circulars (AC)

  • Advisory Circulars (AC) offer non-binding advice and guidance on how drone operators can comply with the relevant CASR Parts, including Part 101. Although these circulars are not enforceable, they provide valuable interpretations of the regulations, examples of best practices, and methods for ensuring safety.
    • Example: An AC might explain how to apply for a Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC) or how to seek CASA approval for conducting flights beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS).

Additional Resources Specific to the Drone Space:

  • Drone Safety Apps and Websites: CASA endorses tools like the “Ok 2 Fly?” app, which helps drone pilots understand where they are allowed to fly based on the current regulatory environment.
  • Standard Operating Conditions: For commercial operators with a Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC), CASA specifies standard operating conditions under which operations must be conducted without additional approvals (e.g., flying in uncontrolled airspace below 400 feet, within visual line of sight).

Summary Hierarchy for Australia (including drones):

  1. Civil Aviation Act (CAA) – Establishes CASA’s authority to regulate aviation safety, including drone operations.
  2. Civil Aviation Safety Regulations (CASR) – Part 101 specifically covers drones and sets the operational rules, pilot licensing, and certification requirements.
  3. Manual of Standards (MOS) – Provides detailed standards for drone operations, including training, certification, and special permissions (e.g., BVLOS).
  4. Civil Aviation Orders (CAO) – Adds further directives for specific RPAS operations, such as restrictions in certain areas.
  5. Advisory Circulars (AC) – Offers guidance for compliance with regulations, including how to apply for certifications and permissions for advanced drone operations.