At Hover UAV, we understand the dynamic and evolving landscape of drone technology, especially for those looking to harness these aerial innovations for commercial gain. Central to navigating this terrain is understanding the Remote Operators Certificate (ReOC) — an essential for commercial drone operations in Australia, akin to the traditional Air Operator’s Certificate in manned aviation.
Dive into the Remote Operators Certificate (ReOC)
The ReOC opens doors to expansive commercial drone uses beyond the hobbyist level, enabling a wide range of activities that are not possible under standard operational conditions. Whether it’s operating heavier drones, managing expansive drone operations, or venturing beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), the ReOC is your license to soar. A pivotal requirement for the Remote Operators Certificate (ReOC) eligibility is designating a Chief Remote Pilot, who must be a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) holder with robust knowledge and experience pertinent to your drone activities, alongside passing a CASA or CASA-approved delegate flight exam.
The Advantages of Holding a ReOC
Obtaining a ReOC goes beyond regulatory compliance; it is a strategic asset that vastly extends the scope of legal drone operations for your business. This certification is crucial for any entity aiming to transcend basic drone operations, offering new avenues for growth in areas like high-end aerial photography and detailed surveying.
How Hover UAV Elevates Your ReOC Journey
Hover UAV stands at the forefront of facilitating your Remote Operators Certificate (ReOC) acquisition process. Our expert consultancy services are tailored to navigate the complexities of the ReOC application, ensuring a seamless transition for your business. Here’s what we offer:
Development of bespoke operations manuals and operational libraries that adhere to CASA’s stringent standards.
Preparation assessments to prime you for CASA’s rigorous evaluation.
Continuous, personalised guidance throughout the application process, guaranteeing clear and compliant progression.
Start Your Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC) Adventure with Hover UAV
Embarking on the journey to secure a ReOC marks the beginning of a new chapter in commercial drone operations for your business. Hover UAV is committed to demystifying the regulatory landscape, empowering you to concentrate on expanding and innovating your drone capabilities. Partner with us to navigate the path to ReOC certification seamlessly, unlocking the immense potential of your commercial drone ventures. Reach out to Hover UAV today, and let’s take your drone operations to unparalleled heights. For more information contact Hover UAV for assistance.
In today’s rapidly advancing technological landscape, drones, or remotely piloted aircraft (RPAs), have become an integral tool across various industries and for private landholders. Whether it’s for aerial photography, real estate, agriculture, or environmental monitoring, understanding the regulatory framework is crucial for safe and legal drone operations. This guide aims to demystify the regulations, focusing on the Excluded Category for drone operations, ensuring you’re well-informed and compliant.
Understanding the Excluded Category for Drone Operations
The Excluded Category provides a flexible pathway for both commercial entities and private individuals to operate drones without the need for a formal Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) under specific conditions. Here’s a breakdown of what this category entails:
Commercial Operations with Drones under 2kg (Excluded Category): Ideal for businesses exploring the potential of drones, this segment allows commercial use without needing a RePL or a Remote Operator’s Certificate (ReOC).
Private Landholders with Drones under 25kg: Private individuals can utilise drones on their property, offering a streamlined approach for agricultural or property management purposes.
While operating within this category, it’s essential to adhere to standard operating conditions and maintain accurate records of your drone activities. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) reserves the right to review these records, to ensure compliance and safety. For a plain English guide on the excluded category, it can be found here.
Standard Operating Conditions for Excluded Category
To ensure the safety of airspace and the public, strict operational guidelines are in place for drones within the Excluded Category:
Proximity to Aerodromes: Maintain a minimum distance of 5.5km from both controlled and uncontrolled aerodromes.
Distance from People: Operate your drone at least 30 metres away from others, ensuring public safety.
Altitude Limit: Keep your drone below 120 metres (400ft) above ground level to avoid conflicts with manned aircraft.
Visual Line-of-Sight: Always operate your drone within your direct line of sight, without the aid of electronic devices.
Daytime Operations Only: Flights should be conducted during daylight hours for maximum visibility and safety.
Single Drone Rule: Operate only one drone at a time to maintain control and reduce risks.
Avoid Populated Areas: Refrain from flying over or near populous areas, respecting privacy and minimizing potential hazards.
Additional Considerations and Best Practices
While the Excluded Category offers flexibility, it comes with responsibilities. Before you take to the skies, consider the following:
Pre-Flight Preparations: Complete the necessary accreditation quiz provided by CASA, especially if you lack a Remote Pilot Licence. This certification is crucial for understanding the rules and ensuring safe operations.
Drone Registration: All commercial RPAs need to be registered with CASA, a straightforward process that ensures accountability and safety in the airspace.
Operational Restrictions: Understand and respect the limitations of your drone’s operational capacity, including weather conditions and geographical restrictions.
Requirements for Operating in the Excluded Category
Before operating your micro or excluded category remotely piloted aircraft (RPA), it’s mandatory to have it registered and to obtain a valid RPA operator accreditation. The initial step involves acquiring an Aviation Reference Number (ARN), which facilitates interactions and service provision by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). An ARN is akin to a driver’s license number or bank account number, granting access to the myCASA portal. Through this portal, you can register your RPA and secure accreditation, along with other aviation-related services ensuring your legal to fly within the excluded category.
There are two categories of ARNs. Individual ARNs cater to those not affiliated with a business or organisation, necessary for drone registration and accreditation via the myCASA portal. For individuals operating a business, it’s recommended to also apply for an organisation ARN. Eligibility for an ARN generally hinges on passing identity verification checks.
Organisation ARNs are designated for Australian businesses, required for business-related drone registrations through CASA and facilitating multiple individuals to represent the business within the myCASA portal. An organization ARN necessitates an individual ARN and proper authorization to apply on behalf of the business. Eligibility for an organization ARN typically depends on holding a valid ABN, ACN, ARBN, or foreign identification number.
To obtain an ARN, individuals can apply via the CASA website, providing necessary identity proof, the specifics of which are available online. For businesses, the application also goes through the CASA website, preceded by securing an individual ARN by the organization’s authorized representative.
When flying a micro or excluded RPA, accreditation is compulsory unless you possess a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL). This accreditation is gratis and remains valid for three years, obtainable through an online process on the myCASA portal. This involves watching a safety video, reviewing educational materials, and passing a quiz on standard operating conditions and drone safety regulations.
The minimum age for accreditation is 16. Those under 16 must be supervised by an accredited individual of at least 18 years. Upon request by CASA or the police, proof of accreditation or a RePL must be provided, which can be in digital or printed form.
Embrace Best Practices for Drone Operations
Adopting best practices and pursuing further accreditation, such as obtaining a Remote Pilot Licence, can enhance your capabilities and operational safety. While the Excluded Category offers a starting point, evolving your skills and knowledge can open new opportunities and ensure you’re prepared to meet your client’s needs responsibly and legally.
In conclusion, navigating the regulatory landscape for drone operations requires a commitment to safety, compliance, and continuous learning. By understanding and adhering to the guidelines of the Excluded Category, you can leverage the incredible potential of drones in your commercial ventures or private endeavours, all while maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence.
In the world of aviation, whether you’re an individual enthusiast, a professional pilot, or part of an organisation involved in the aerospace sector, one key element you need to navigate the administrative skies is an Aviation Reference Number (ARN). This guide simplifies the process of applying for an ARN, making your journey smoother and ensuring you’re up in the air without unnecessary delays.
What is an ARN and Who Needs One?
An ARN acts much like a personal identification number but for aviation-related activities. It’s mandatory for anyone looking to access services from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) or to hold any form of aviation license, permission, or authorisation. This includes but is not limited to, Chief Remote Pilots, Maintenance Controllers, and Directors of companies involved in aviation. Essentially, if you’re engaging with CASA, an ARN is your entry ticket.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an Individual ARN
Start with myCASA
Your portal to obtaining an ARN is through CASA’s myCASA platform. If you’re new, creating an account is your first step. Visit the myCASA portal, sign up using your email, or leverage the convenience of Digital Identity through MyGovID. For those outside Australia, note that a foreign passport can be used as identification if you’re applying from within the country.
Filling Out Your Application
Once logged in, navigate to the ‘Need an ARN?’ section and select ‘Apply for an aviation reference number (ARN).’ You’ll be prompted to enter personal details including your full name as it appears on your primary ID (such as a passport or driver’s license), address, date of birth, sex, phone numbers, and nationality.
Submitting Your Identification
For the identification process, you’ll only need one form of ID, which can usually be verified online. This includes Australian passports, birth certificates, citizenship certificates, ImmiCards, and foreign passports. Should online verification falter, uploading a certified copy of your document is also an option.
Final Steps
Ensure all details match those on your identification documents, including middle names, before submitting your application. Upon submission, you’ll receive an email with your new ARN shortly.
Applying for an ARN Business and Organisations
Businesses and organisations require an ARN for legal interactions with CASA. The application process mirrors that of an individual, with the necessity of having an individual ARN and the authority to apply on behalf of the entity. Be prepared with the organization’s ABN during your application.
Why an ARN is Indispensable
Owning an ARN is not just about compliance; it’s about ensuring seamless interaction with CASA, and facilitating your access to licenses, permissions, and authorizations crucial for your aviation activities. It’s a unique identifier that simplifies the bureaucracy, allowing you to focus on the skies.
Embarking on Your Application Journey
Applying for an ARN is straightforward through the myCASA portal. Remember, whether you’re an individual or applying on behalf of a business or organization, the key to a smooth process is having all the necessary information and documents at hand. With your ARN, you’re not just a number; you’re a part of the broader aviation community, ready to take off into the vast blue yonder.
In simplifying the administrative side of your aviation endeavours, an ARN is your first step toward the skies. Follow this guide, and you’ll find the process not just necessary but easily navigable, with clear skies ahead on your aviation journey.
The Sky’s the Limit – Australia stands on the cusp of a remarkable evolution in the drone industry, with projections indicating a trajectory of rapid growth and innovation. In this blog, we delve into the findings of a groundbreaking report by Scyne Advisory commissioned for Air Services Australia which forecasts the Australian drone market’s expansion through 2043. This analysis not only underscores the potential for advanced air mobility but also highlights the critical role of drones in reshaping various sectors, from transport and logistics to agriculture and environmental management.
A Glimpse into the Future: The drone industry in Australia is experiencing a pivotal transformation. Expected to grow by an average of 20% annually over the next 20 years, the sector is set to reach an astonishing 60 million flights by 2043. This growth is concentrated in urban areas, signaling the advent of a new era in aviation and logistics, propelled by significant technological advancements and regulatory developments.
Technological and Regulatory Catalysts: The evolution from speculative discussions to tangible prototypes and services marks a new chapter for drones in Australia. Innovations spurred by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic have played a crucial role in this transition. The industry’s maturity is now paving the way for sophisticated uses, such as goods delivery and passenger transport, transforming what was once science fiction into reality.
The Importance of a UTM System: As drones become integral to various commercial applications, the need for an efficient Uncrewed Aircraft System Traffic Management (UTM) system becomes increasingly apparent. The anticipated influx of drone flights emphasizes the necessity for a framework that ensures safe and equitable airspace access, highlighting the ongoing collaboration between the government and the industry to refine regulatory frameworks conducive to growth.
Reshaping Industries: The projected boom in the drone market offers innovative solutions to traditional challenges, creating new opportunities for economic growth across sectors. This evolution signifies a shift towards more connected, efficient, and innovative approaches to mobility and transportation, marking a pivotal moment in Australia’s journey towards embracing advanced air mobility.
Australia’s drone industry is at a turning point, with the potential to significantly impact various sectors by offering innovative solutions and creating new opportunities for economic growth. The key to unlocking this potential lies in continued technological innovation, regulatory progress, and collaboration between the government and the industry. As we look towards the future, it’s clear that the sky’s the limit for Australia’s drone market, promising a new era of efficiency and innovation in aviation and beyond.
Ready to join the drone revolution? Contact Hover UAV today to launch your organisation’s drone program. For a full report download, click here.
Roles and Responsibilities of the Chief Remote Pilot (CRP)
In the rapidly evolving landscape of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), the role of the Chief Remote Pilot (CRP) has never been more critical. These professionals stand at the forefront of ensuring safety, compliance, and efficiency in RPAS operations, a task that requires constant vigilance, up-to-date knowledge, and a deep understanding of both technology and regulatory requirements. Hover UAV recognises the complexities and challenges of this pivotal role and offers comprehensive support packages designed to empower CRPs and their operations.
The Expanding Scope of CRP Responsibilities
The responsibilities of a Chief Remote Pilot (CRP) are diverse, covering operational management, regulatory compliance, risk assessment, and team training. As RPAS technologies advance and regulatory landscapes evolve, CRPs must continuously adapt to maintain operational excellence and legal compliance. These responsibilities can be daunting, especially for organisations scaling their RPAS operations or those new to integrating RPAS capabilities into their business models.
How Hover UAV Can Assist
Hover UAV is uniquely positioned to assist CRPs in navigating the complexities of their roles. Our Chief Remote Pilot (CRP) Support Packages are tailored to address the specific needs of RPAS operations across various industries, including agriculture, construction, mining, and more. Here’s how we can help:
Regulatory Compliance: Stay ahead of the curve with our expert guidance on regulatory changes and compliance requirements. Our team ensures that your RPAS operations are not just compliant today but prepared for future regulatory shifts.
Operational Efficiency: Our support packages offer strategies and tools to streamline your RPAS operations, from flight planning and risk assessment to complex approvals and analysis. This holistic approach ensures operational efficiency, saving time and resources.
Risk Management: We provide comprehensive risk assessment frameworks and mitigation strategies tailored to the unique challenges of RPAS operations. Our proactive approach helps CRPs identify potential issues before they become problems, ensuring safer flights and protecting assets.
Training and Development: Hover UAV believes in empowering CRPs and their teams through targeted training and professional development opportunities. From pilot training to advanced analytics, we ensure your team has the skills and knowledge to excel.
Technology Integration: Leverage the latest in RPAS technology with our guidance on drone selection, software solutions, and data analytics tools. We help you make informed decisions that align with your operational goals and budget.
Customised Support: Recognise that each operation is unique; our support packages are fully customisable. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, we work closely with you to develop a solution that fits your specific needs.
The Hover UAV Advantage
Choosing Hover UAV as your partner in RPAS operations means more than just accessing expert services; it means joining a community dedicated to advancing RPAS safety, efficiency, and innovation. With our support, CRPs can confidently navigate their responsibilities, focus on operational growth, and explore new opportunities in RPAS technology.
The role of the Chief Remote Pilot (CRP) is indispensable in the UAV industry, filled with challenges but also immense opportunities for innovation and growth. With Hover UAV’s Chief Remote Pilot (CRP) Support Packages, CRPs have a partner in their corner ready to assist with every aspect of RPAS operations. Together, we can unlock the full potential of your RPAS operations, ensuring they are safe, compliant, and efficient. Join us in leading the way forward in the exciting world of RPAS technology. For more information please do not hesitate to contact info@hoveruav.com.au or call 1300655918.
In this interview, it is discussed the intricacies and challenges in optimising regulatory processes for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. Jackie Dujmovic, CEO of Hover UAV calls attention to the necessity for clear and direct regulations, to simplify the approval process. They underscore the need to comprehend the concept of operations and devise suitable technical solutions accordingly. Jackie refers to progressive solutions such as parachutes, redundant systems, and software programming to reduce operational risks. She advocates for cooperation, seeking support, and educating regulators as vital tactics in managing the regulatory landscape. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the future impact of regulatory processes in maximising the potential of BVLOS operations and the importance of implementing standard scenarios to expedite the process.
This podcast held during the 2023 NestGen Flytbase event “BVLOS Operations in the Next Decade: What to Expect in 2033” features a thought leadership discussion with top CXOs in the drone industry. Hover UAVs Jackie Dujmovic was fortunate to be on this esteemed panel giving her leadership thoughts. The topic of discussion was the outlook on drone autonomy in the future. The panel discussed the challenges and opportunities that drone autonomy will bring and the potential impact on various industries. They also discussed the importance of safety and regulation in enabling the widespread use of autonomous drones, as well as the need for continued innovation in drone technology. Overall, the panelists predict a significant increase in the use of autonomous drones in the next decade, particularly in industries such as agriculture, transportation, and logistics.
For more information on BVLOS operations, approvals, or training please do not hesitate to gain contact Hover UAV for more information.
BVLOS training – The drone industry views operating Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) as the next frontier but obtaining the necessary BVLOS rating has been a challenge due to the complexity of the current licensing requirements. However, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) in Australia has introduced an alternative way of obtaining the BVLOS rating through a CASA-approved OCTA BVLOS examination, which has eliminated the barriers and complexity of the previous Instrument Rating Examination (IREX) requirement.
To help operators and organisations prepare for this new requirement, Hover UAV, a well-known drone consultancy, has launched a nationwide training program for the BVLOS Rating exam. The course covers a wide range of topics, including general BVLOS knowledge, aeronautical knowledge, meteorology, airspace classification, human factors, navigation systems, communications, and examination practice, which has been tailored to provide operators with the knowledge and skills needed to pass CASA’s OCTA BVLOS examination and as such operate safely and efficiently during BVLOS operations.
Hover UAV’s new training program is an excellent opportunity for operators and organisations looking to transition to BVLOS operations. With Hover UAV’s expertise in conducting BVLOS operations in applications such as drone delivery, operating from a remote operations center (ROC), and conducting long-range surveillance, the company is well-positioned to offer high-quality training and ensure a smooth and safe transition to BVLOS operations. The program is open to all operators across Australia, and Hover UAV is committed to providing nationwide training.
If you’re interested in Hover UAV’s BVLOS Rating examtraining program, you can visit their website to learn more and sign up for the next available training session. With the drone industry evolving rapidly, this training program is an excellent way to stay ahead of the curve and become a successful and safe BVLOS operator.
For more information please do not hesitate to reach out to Hover UAV for more information.
Drones have become increasingly popular in Australia, with more and more people using them for various purposes. However, this rise in drone usage has also raised concerns about the noise they create. The Australian Government has established regulations for drone noise, and in some cases, individuals or organisations can apply for an exemption to these regulations. Australian Drone Noise Approvals can be found here
If you’re a drone operator in Australia, it’s important to know that you must apply for approval under the Noise Regulations. The grace period for adjusting to the new regulatory framework ended on July 1st, 2022. However, most drone operators will likely be exempt or automatically granted approval. For complex or large operations, operators may need to undergo a more detailed assessment before obtaining approval from the department on the Drones.gov.au website. Dones.gov.au is an official website of the Australian Government created to provide information and guidelines related to the use of drones or remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) in Australia. The website aims to educate and inform drone operators about the regulations on safe and lawful drone operations, privacy, and noise.
Applying for Australian Drone Noise approvals?
You may need to seek approval under the Noise Regulations if:
• You are flying for a commercial purpose and/or you have been issued a remotely piloted aircraft operator’s certificate (ReOC) (visit CASA’s website).
You do not need to seek approval under the Noise Regulations if:
• You only fly drones that weigh 250 grams or less
• You only fly drones under standard operating conditions (visit CASA’s website)
• You only fly drones for one or more of the following purposes:
• Agricultural operations
• Environmental operations
• Fire-fighting, medical, emergency, or policing purposes
It is recommended you fill out the Self-assessment application form for Australian Drone Noise Approvals located at https://www.drones.gov.au/recreational/noise. You only need to complete this form once to cover your expected and typical drone operations over the next 12 months. If you are not sure about the details of the operations you may be conducting over the next year, answer the questions to the best of your knowledge. If the nature of your operations changes significantly over the next 12 months, you should complete the form again or provide additional information to the department to maintain a valid approval. Details of your obligations will be provided as part of your approval. During the self-assessment form, you will be asked a series of questions on the sort of operations and if your drone operations will impact noise-sensitive areas.
The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communication, and the Arts defines noise-sensitive sites and impacts as:
Noise-sensitive sites are locations that are used for purposes sensitive to noise. This includes:
• Residential buildings
• Schools and places of education including preschools and childcare centers
• Hospitals, aged care facilities, and other health-related facilities
• Places of worship
• Places of temporary residence including hotels and motels
• Cultural sites
• Public recreational buildings and places, e.g., open theatres and amphitheaters.
In determining whether your drone operations are likely to have an impact on noise-sensitive sites, you should take into account the following factors:
• If noise from your drone operation can be clearly heard at the noise-sensitive site, then it can be considered to have an impact.
Example: A drone operator is inspecting construction works that are next to some apartments. If the drone operator is only flying during the day while construction work is occurring, the drone is unlikely to impact the surrounding residences due to the background construction noise you should answer no it does not have an impact however. If the drone is flying at night, the drone operation would likely have an impact on the surrounding residences as there would be no background construction noise you should answer yes it would have an impact.
However, even if you are operating in a noise-sensitive area and will have a noise impact, it does not necessarily mean that you will be exempt from the noise regulations. You will need to determine if your drone operation will have a noise impact on the same noise-sensitive site(s) on an ongoing basis. To determine this, you need to base it on your typical operations or current plans for the next 12 months.
Drone operations should be considered to have an impact on an ongoing basis if they impact the same sensitive site at least four times per week on average over a period of at least 1 month.
For example, a drone delivery service regularly operates in the same suburb. Some properties in this suburb will likely be affected by drones flying overhead or providing deliveries to their neighbors on a regular basis. This operator will then have an impact on an ongoing basis. However, a commercial real-estate photographer takes photographs of different houses on a regular basis. The drone operations will impact different sites each day but will not impact the same site on an ongoing basis.
Once you have completed the required form, you will receive a notification about your exemption status. As previously mentioned, the majority of drone operations in Australia will be exempt from noise regulations. An exemption email will be sent to you, which should be kept on file or included in your CASA operation manual (in approvals/exemptions) and renewed annually or if your assessment changes.
Furthermore, the Australian Government is developing a comprehensive outcomes-based Noise Framework for emerging aviation technologies. This framework will incorporate consistent procedures for measuring the noise output of new technologies, noise impact modeling at ground level, noise-based regulations, standard noise threshold settings developed through consultation with local, state, and territorial governments, and the consideration of noise impacts associated with drones and electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles as part of the Infrastructure Planning Framework.
In conclusion, complying with drone noise regulations is crucial for safe and lawful drone operations in Australia. By understanding the regulations, monitoring noise emissions, and applying for an exemption if necessary, drone operators can ensure they are operating within the law and minimising the impact of their drones on the public and wildlife.
About the author
Hover UAV is a leading drone consulting company based in Australia. With years of experience in the industry, we specialise in providing expert advice and support to drone operators of all levels, from beginners to advanced professionals. Our team of experienced and certified drone pilots has a passion for helping our clients achieve their goals safely and efficiently. We are committed to staying up-to-date with the latest drone regulations and technologies, and we take pride in providing exceptional customer service to our clients. If you have any questions or need assistance with drone operations, don’t hesitate to contact us at Hover UAV.
The podcast featuring Jackie Dujmovic is about streamlining regulatory approval processes for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), specifically in relation to controlling drones Beyond the Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS).
Jackie Dujmovic is the CEO and Founder of Hover UAV, an Australian-based company specialising in drone services and consulting. In the podcast, she discusses the challenges of working with regulators to establish processes and regulations that enable BVLOS operations, as well as the checklist for safe BVLOS operations. Additionally, Jackie talks about unmanned systems at Australia’s Avalon Airshow and her experience working with regulators from other jurisdictions.
The podcast is sponsored by Drone Source, an Elsight production. Elsight’s Halo is an AI-powered connectivity platform for unmanned vehicles, providing a reliable and constant connection between drones and ground control stations, even in areas with little reception.
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