Tag: rpas

Applying For An ARN

Applying for an ARN

Aviation Reference Number

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.

Applying for an ARN - Hover UAV

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.

Hover UAV - AAUS Finalists

Hover UAV: AAUS Finalist Awards for Education and Safety 2024

Hover UAV – AAUS Finalists. At Hover UAV, we are filled with immense pride and gratitude as we share the news of our selection as a finalist in the prestigious Australian Association for Uncrewed Systems (AAUS) awards for 2024, notably in the Education and Safety category. This accolade highlights our pioneering initiative, the “Chief Remote Pilot Support and Train the Trainer Packages,” specifically tailored to elevate the expertise and knowledge of Chief Remote Pilots (CRPs) throughout Australia.

Program Highlights:

  • Target Audience: Our program is meticulously designed for CRPs who navigate the complexities of staying abreast with the ever-evolving industry changes while maintaining active engagement with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
  • Objective: We aim to comprehensively update CRPs on the latest regulatory knowledge, significantly enhance their practical skills, and facilitate an effective knowledge transfer process.
  • Components: The program’s structure is comprehensive, including personalized one-on-one regulation and training sessions, in-depth updates on regulations, dedicated flight test support, and specific training on the latest hardware/software technologies. This is further augmented by our bespoke Train the Trainer packs, designed to empower CRPs with the tools needed for internal team training.

Impact and Value:

The “Chief Remote Pilot Support and Train the Trainer Packages” program has made a substantial contribution towards enhancing safety and efficiency within the unmanned systems industry. By addressing the pressing need for CRPs to possess up-to-date knowledge and skills, our initiative stands out for its practicality and indispensability. Through personalized regulatory update sessions and hands-on training, we ensure that CRPs are thoroughly prepared to navigate their multifaceted roles. The tangible positive outcomes, including improved exam pass rates and the successful assimilation of new regulations, attest to the program’s significant impact on operational safety and competence.

As we celebrate this recognition, we also want to extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the other finalists. Being acknowledged alongside such distinguished contributions to the unmanned systems industry is truly an honor, reflecting a collective dedication to propelling the sector forward in terms of safety and education.

Hover UAV - AAUS Finalists

Our unwavering commitment to enhancing the skills and safety practices of Chief Remote Pilots has not only earned us a finalist position in the AAUS awards but also underscores our broader commitment to the advancement of the unmanned systems industry. This nomination serves as a testament to our team’s hard work and the innovative approach we’ve taken to address the unique challenges faced by CRPs, reinforcing our dedication to leading the way in safety and education within this dynamic field.

Should you or your organisation require any CRP assistance please feel free to contact Hover UAV for more information.

The Sky's The Limit

The Sky’s the Limit: Australia’s Drone Market Set for Explosive Growth


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.

Credit:- Airservices Australia / Scyne Advisory

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.

Chief Remote Pilot (CRP)

Chief Remote Pilot (CRP)

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.

Changes to BVLOS EVLOS Qualifications

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.
Chief Remote Pilot (CRP)

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.

Aviation Hall of Fame - Jackie Dujmovic

Jackie Dujmovic, Inducted into the Women in Emerging Aviation Hall of Fame

We’re thrilled to share that Jackie Dujmovic, CEO of Hover UAV, will be among the 11 distinguished women joining the Women in Emerging Aviation Technologies Hall of Fame. This honour will be formally bestowed upon her during the 7th Annual Women in Emerging Aviation Technologies Awards, slated to be held at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in Washington D.C., come October 25th. Those in attendance can anticipate mingling with these esteemed Hall of Fame entrants.

Women and Drones have continually celebrated women paving the way in the aviation sphere, their innovations and visions promising a future rich in technological and scientific leaps.

Recently, Women and Drones unveiled this year’s list of luminaries to be inducted into the Women in Emerging Aviation Technologies Hall of Fame. These inductees, an embodiment of experience and expertise, hail from diverse backgrounds within the Uncrewed Aerial Systems and Advanced Air Mobility sectors. Sabrewing Aircraft Company champions this cause by sponsoring the awards. As per Ed De Reyes, Sabrewing’s CEO, they’re keen on celebrating the women driving growth, innovation, and creativity in aviation.

Previous Hall of Fame inductees and this year’s ceremony hosts include Miriam McNabb, the editor of DRONELIFE.com, and Marilyn Pearson, CAE’s Global Regulatory Affairs Lead for AAM/eVTOL/UAS. Pearson highlights the game-changing technologies transforming aviation, akin to the jet engine’s introduction. McNabb eagerly awaits the induction of these trailblazers in Washington DC, lauding their mark on the drone industry.

From the impressive nominations received from around the world, a panel of judges has chosen these eleven outstanding women as 2023 Hall of Fame inductees:

Loretta Alkalay – Aviation attorney and Adjunct Professor at Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology. Alkalay holds an FAA remote pilot certificate with a sUAS rating and also serves as a regulatory consultant, specializing in issues related to compliance with federal aviation regulations including drone rules.

Barbara Bollard – Professor Bollard of Australia is a leader in the field of drone remote sensing, renowned for her pioneering research in both Antarctica and extreme desert environments. Her groundbreaking achievements have significantly advanced the capabilities of drone technology, transforming data collection and analysis in these challenging terrains.

Jackie Dujmovic – Founder and CEO of Hover UAV in Australia. As a commercial UAS Pilot and accomplished Chief Remote Pilot, Dujmovic’s expertise is establishing robust communication and procedural frameworks with regulators across local, national, and international spheres. Her ultimate mission is the seamless integration of drone systems into everyday life, commitments to safety, compliance, and navigating intricate operational approvals.

Desiree Ekstein – Founder of On The Go Video and accomplished figure in the UAS industry. Ekstein is dedicated to promoting safety and education as a Lead FAASTeam Representative and AUVSI TOP Level 3 pilot. She is also involved in the “Girls Take Flight” initiative which encourages young women to explore careers in the science and technology fields.

Laurie Grindle – Deputy Center Director, NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center. Grindle assists in the management of the NASA field centre, focusing on strategy, business processes, and institutional management. She has also served in leadership roles overseeing Unmanned Air Vehicles and the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew vehicle abort test booster.

Sonet Kock – Director of Drone Policy & Regulatory Development. Sonet is the Founder and Managing Director of AviComply (Pty) Ltd, a leading South African consulting firm specializing in Aviation Compliance Solutions. She is known for her expertise and extensive experience in Aviation Regulatory Compliance and has dedicated her efforts to ensuring quality and safety assurance for both crewed and uncrewed flight operations.

Mercy Makau – President and Founder of the Young Aviator Club of Africa as well as Chairperson of Drone Club Kenya. Makau is considered a passionate change maker, deeply committed to empowering youth and promoting gender equity in Africa’s aviation and aerospace industry.

Jenn Player – Senior Director of Global Aviation Regulatory Affairs at Skydio. Jenn collaborates with customers, regulators, and standards development organizations to advance autonomy and unlock safe and effective docked drone operations. Jenn’s early work to integrate drones into the National Airspace System led to the first long-range BVLOS civil flight in the continental United States.

Dr Debbie Saunders – Founder, CEO and Chief Remote Pilot of Wildlife Drones. The Australian company is transforming biodiversity conservation by developing innovative technological solutions, including the world’s most advanced drone-based radio-telemetry sensor that empowers endangered and invasive species managers globally to simultaneously track the movements of many animals from a drone in real time.

Annalisa Russell-Smith – Chief Strategy Officer, Flyby Technology. The company flew the COVID virus between laboratories and chemotherapy to isolated communities and Russell-Smith was the first civilian female in the United Kingdom to become a Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) pilot.

Abigail Smith – Executive Director (A), of the FAA’s UAS Security Office, which serves as the focal point for all matters related to drone and air mobility (AAM) security in U.S. airspace. Within this role, Smith leads the FAA’s efforts to safely integrate detection and mitigation systems for drones and AAM operations into the National Airspace System.

About the Women in Emerging Aviation Technologies Awards: Initiated in 2017, Women and Drones has been shining a spotlight on those reshaping the UAS/AAM industry. Every year, a global hunt singles out women and entities bringing innovation, enhancing the UAS/AAM industry’s reputation, fostering inclusivity in STEM and aviation, and propelling the industry closer to equal gender representation.

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Australian Aviation Support Business of the Year - Hover UAV

Hover UAV Clinches 2023 Aviation Support Business of the Year at the Australian Aviation Awards

A Milestone Event in the Aviation Industry

The Australian Aviation Awards, the cornerstone event for the aviation sector in Australia, has just concluded its 2023 ceremony, and what a phenomenal experience it was! Held in August, the black-tie gala was nothing short of spectacular, featuring aviation luminaries, industry thought leaders and professionals who have devoted their careers to the advancement of aviation in Australia. Among the list of prestigious accolades, one award stood out for its testament to dedication, innovation, and service excellence: the Aviation Support Business of the Year. The winner? Hover UAV.

Celebrating Excellence in Support and Innovation

Hover UAV has proven itself to be more than just a company; it is a vanguard in the ever-evolving landscape of Australian aviation. Their work in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) has not only set new standards in terms of efficiency and safety but also pushed the boundaries of technological innovation in the sector.

The Aviation Support Business of the Year award celebrates companies that have shown exemplary service, operational excellence, and an unwavering commitment to elevate the aviation sector. With this award, Hover UAV has achieved a milestone that symbolises industry-wide recognition of its efforts to create safer and more efficient airspace.

A Platform for Connection and Visibility

The Australian Aviation Awards aims to foster greater connectivity within the aviation industry, offering a platform for professionals and businesses to showcase their accomplishments. Open to all, irrespective of location or specialisation, the awards are quickly becoming the universal benchmark for excellence in Australian aviation.

Hover UAV’s victory in this esteemed category, therefore, is a monumental achievement. Not just an endorsement by a panel of industry experts, this win signifies a nod from the entire aviation community, recognising the critical role that support services like Hover UAV play in enriching the aviation ecosystem.

A Bright Future

This national awards program encourages businesses like Hover UAV to continually strive for excellence, propelling the Australian aviation industry into the global spotlight.

Hover UAV’s accolade is an indicator of the company’s promising trajectory and its potential to bring groundbreaking changes to how we perceive and interact with our skies. If the Australian Aviation Awards are a barometer for the future of aviation in the country, then the winds are surely blowing in the direction of unprecedented innovation and global prominence.


For more updates on the Australian Aviation Awards and insights into the aviation industry, https://australianaviation.com.au/australian-aviation-awards/winners/2023-winners-and-finalists.

BVLOS Regulatory Processes

BVLOS Regulatory Processes

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.

Discussion:- Jackie Dujmovic, Hover UAV & Jason San Souci of FlytBase
Profly Cinema

Introducing Profly Cinema

We’re absolutely thrilled at Hover UAV to introduce one of our clients, Profly Cinema! The team at Profly Cinema, fuelled by their relentless creativity and passion, have been collaborating closely with our team, leading to an extraordinary achievement – securing close proximity approval from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority!

Profly Cinema was founded by two world-class drone racing pilots Ben Mortensen and Rudi Browning. Ben and Rudi are highly skilled pilots having won FAI World Championship titles in 2018 and travelled extensively around the world racing drones at the highest competitive levels. When Covid put an end to international travel and racing, they transitioned their dynamic piloting skills to the film industry.

Profly Cinema

For over twelve months we have been consulting with Profly Cinema to develop their manuals and procedures which has led to a number of CASA approvals that allow them to legally fly their drones with First Person View (FPV), conduct extended visual line (EVLOS) of site operations, fly at night, and in close proximity to talent.

Chief remote pilot Ben Mortensen said “Our piloting skills and film experience have rapidly earned us a reputation in the industry as the ‘go-to pilots’ for specialised drone operations. With our CASA approvals, we can legally conduct drone operations in a safe and controlled environment for our clients and capture unique, creative, and engaging shots. We’ve invested heavily in our systems, procedures, and the latest drone technology.” Profly Cinema offers a comprehensive range of drone services, featuring state-of-the-art platforms such as the Inspire 3 with RTK, Cinema FPV, Gimbal FPV, GoPro FPV, and Close Proximity Drones.

Showreel Shot by Profly Cinema Pilots

Ben said “Given the complex legislative requirements regarding RPAS operations in Australia, it’s been great to have the support of the team at Hover UAV. Their legislative knowledge of the industry is second to none. As we are rapidly expanding they have also helped us with some workload by handling CASA applications and negotiations on our behalf.”

Rudi Browning explained “We identified a gap in the Australian market” and “It was a natural progression for us to go from drone racing to film. Racing allowed us to develop the skills to fly and perform under pressure. We can now transform that skill and deliver creative content for the film industry.” When asking Rudi what it’s like working in the film and TV industry, Rudi said “It’s so much fun. We get to travel to amazing locations and work with amazing people.” Rudi also says “It comes with incredibly long hours and can be stressful. Sometimes you only have one chance to get the shot, so you need to be on your game. Plus, flying a drone through the air with a $50K camera on board is not for everyone, so you need to be confident with what you do and have the equipment and skills to match.” 

Rudi and Ben also spend their time educating school students about drone safety, highlighting and promoting CASA’s Know Your Drone Campaign. “We love to share our story about what it’s like being a professional drone pilot and how we’ve turned our passion into a career,” Ben and Rudi said. “Kids see some of the stuff we do and the cool shots we get with a drone, but it’s important for the general public to understand we have special approvals and procedures in place to do what we do and it’s done in a controlled environment. It’s important that drone pilots understand they need to remain 30 meters from people, and that’s why we like to help educate future upcoming drone pilots.”

Profly Cinema

Hover UAV are proud to work with the team at Profly Cinema and help them achieve their goals and we look forward to seeing some more of their work on the big screen. They are in a unique position within the film industry by having truly world-class pilots headlining the company’s operations.

You can check out their work at www.proflycinema.com

Changes to BVLOS EVLOS Qualifications

Changes to BVLOS EVLOS Requirements

Changes to BVLOS EVLOS Requirements

CASA releases new changes for qualifications required for EVLOS operations and BVLOS Enclosed Operations

CASA has just announced the release of a new instrument for RPAS operators in Australia – the CASA EX27/23 – Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operations Beyond Visual Line of Sight Exemption 2023. This instrument, which comes into effect today, will be valid until August 31, 2024. It replaces the previous instrument, EX46/21, and requires those currently operating EVLOS and BVLOS to update their CASA operations manual.

“Now both EVLOS Class I and Class II no longer require a Remote Pilot to hold a pass in IREX or BVLOS OCTA Exam”

The new CASA EX27/23 instrument brings some exciting and additional changes for operators. Firstly, it now allows for the operation of both EVLOS Class 1 and EVLOS Class 2 without requiring the Remote Pilot to hold a pass in the IREX or the CASA-approved OCTA exam or the need for a supervising remote pilot to hold those qualifications. Whereas the old instrument only allowed this for Class 1. However, it’s important to note that the ReOC holder will still need to be approved for EVLOS Class 1 or EVLOS Class 1 and 2 and have approved documents and procedures.

“BVLOS enclosed operations no longer require a Remote Pilot to hold a pass in IREX or BVLOS OCTA Exam or need a supervising Remote Pilot with those qualifications ”

This new instrument still permits BVLOS enclosed operations without requiring the Remote Pilot to hold a pass in the IREX or the CASA-approved OCTA exam however there is now no need for a supervising Remote Pilot. Again, the ReOC holder will still need to be approved for BVLOS enclosed operations and have approved documents and procedures. Enclosed operations refer to RPA operations that take place within a building or other structure or a naturally occurring or manufactured space underground.

Like the previous instrument, the CASA EX27/23 instrument still allows for BVLOS operations to be conducted with a supervising remote pilot. This means that a remote pilot who doesn’t hold a pass in the IREX or approved BVLOS OCTA exam can have a supervising remote pilot who does hold these licenses supervise their flight. The supervising pilot will need to be located at the place where the remote pilot is operating, readily accessible to the remote pilot, and immediately available to advise and direct them.

Overall, the release of the CASA EX27/23 instrument brings some exciting opportunities for RPAS operators in Australia. If you require any assistance adding these changes into your current operations please reach out to the team at Hover UAV today.

A full copy of the instrument can be found here and is copied below. Changes to BVLOS EVLOS Requirements

Changes to BVLOS EVLOS Qualifications

Instrument number CASA EX27/23

I, CHRISTOPHER PAUL MONAHAN, Executive Manager, National Operations & Standards, a delegate of CASA, make this instrument under regulations 11.160 and 11.205 of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998.

[Signed Chris Monahan]

Christopher P. Monahan
Executive Manager, National Operations & Standards

5 April 2023

CASA EX27/23 — Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operations Beyond Visual Line of Sight Exemption 2023

1      Name

                 This instrument is CASA EX27/23 — Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operations Beyond Visual Line of Sight Exemption 2023.

2      Duration

              This instrument:

(a)   commences on the day after it is registered; and

(b)   is repealed at the end of 31 August 2024.

3      Repeal of instrument number CASA EX46/21

                 CASA EX46/21 — Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operations Beyond Visual Line of Sight Instrument 2021 is repealed.

4      Interpretation

Note   In this instrument, certain terms and expressions have the same meaning as they have in the Civil Aviation Act 1988 and the regulations. These include: operated within the visual line of sight, remote pilot licence and RPA.

     (1) In this instrument:

documented practices and procedures has the meaning given by subsection 1.04(2) of the Part 101 Manual of Standards.

enclosed operation means an RPA operation in which an RPA is operated within a building or other structure, or a naturally occurring or manufactured space underground, in circumstances where:

(a)   it is physically impossible for the RPA to escape and fly away from the building, structure or space if the RPA is no longer under the control of the remote pilot operating the RPA; and

(b)   if the RPA collides with any part of the building, structure or periphery of the space, no material from the RPA, or building, structure or periphery of the space, can move or escape and cause injury to a person outside the building, structure or space.

EVLOS operation has the meaning given by section 5.04 of the Part 101 Manual of Standards.

exempted flight means a flight of an RPA that is operated beyond visual line of sight of the person operating the RPA at any time during the flight.

remote pilot means:

(a)   the holder of a remote pilot license; or

(b)   a person who is taken to hold a remote pilot license under sub regulation 202.461(3) of CASR.

RPA operator means a person who is certified as an RPA operator under regulation 101.335 of CASR.

supervising remote pilot, for an RPA operation, means a remote pilot who:

(a)   meets the requirements of sub regulation 101.300(4) of CASR for operating an RPA beyond visual line of sight; and

(b)   either:

          (i)  is the RPA operator of the RPA being operated during the RPA operation; or

         (ii)  if the remote pilot is not the RPA operator of the RPA — has been appointed by the RPA operator to supervise the person operating the RPA during the RPA operation.

     (2) In this instrument, an RPA is operated beyond visual line of sight of the person operating the RPA if it is not operated within the visual line of sight of the person.

5      Exemptions

     (1) A remote pilot who, as an RPA operator or member of an RPA operator’s personnel, operates an RPA for an exempted flight is exempt from compliance with paragraph 101.300(4)(a) of CASR.

     (2) Subject to subsection (3), a remote pilot who, as a member of an RPA operator’s personnel, operates an RPA for an exempted flight is exempt from compliance with sub-regulation 101.073(1) of CASR.

     (3) The exemption granted under subsection (2) only applies if the RPA operator holds an approval, under regulation 101.029 of CASR, for the operator’s personnel to operate the RPA beyond visual line of sight.

     (4) The exemptions are subject to the conditions stated in section 6.

6      Conditions

     (1) The remote pilot must ensure the RPA operation complies with the documented practices and procedures for operating the RPA for an exempted flight.

     (2) Subject to subsection (4), the remote pilot must operate the RPA under the immediate supervision of the supervising remote pilot, for the RPA operation, who is:

(a)   at the place where the remote pilot is located; and

(b)   readily accessible to the remote pilot; and

(c)   immediately available to advise, and direct, the remote pilot.

Note   This subsection does not limit the supervising remote pilot observing multiple flights of RPAs, for the RPA operator, at the same time.

     (3)     Subject to subsection (4), the remote pilot must comply with the directions, in relation to the RPA operation, of the supervising remote pilot for the RPA operation.     (4) Subsections (2) and (3) do not apply if the RPA operation is an enclosed operation or EVLOS operation.

BVLOS Operations

BVLOS Operations in the Next Decade

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 Operations in the Next Decade. What to expect in 2033
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