With summer almost upon us, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority is reminding all general aviation pilots and drone operators to plan ahead and stay well clear of bushfires.
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Any crewed aircraft not involved in aerial firefighting should remain at least 5 nautical miles (9.26 kilometres) from fire boundaries – but ideally much further.
Drones must never be flown near bushfires under any circumstances.
Pip Spence, CASA CEO and Director of Aviation Safety, says that by following the rules, pilots and drone operators can contribute to safer outcomes for all.
'If you're in the air, firefighting aircraft can't do their job. By steering clear of bushfires, we can let aerial firefighters get on with the job of containing the fire and keeping communities safe,' Ms Spence says.
'For drone operators, this includes keeping your drone on the ground. Drones are small and hard to see and pose a risk to aircraft and helicopters.
'Always remember to check the rules before you fly, and tune into your local fire authority for the latest updates on active bushfires in your area.'
In recent months, prolonged wet weather across Australia has fuelled rapid vegetation growth, creating ideal conditions for bushfires. When fires ignite, they can spread quickly and disrupt flight paths that pilots would normally use.
Aerial firefighting operations rely on this airspace. These aircraft often fly at low altitudes and may change direction suddenly, posing risks to other airspace users nearby.
Pilots must heed the warnings of local fire and police authorities about any active bushfires along their intended flight path. Pilots are reminded to always consult NOTAMs before embarking on a flight.
CASA has a comprehensive set of safety regulations that govern aerial firefighting operations.
These include specific pilot training and experience requirements, approvals for air operators to spot fires and drop water or retardant and the creation of temporary danger or restricted areas around fires.
Hundreds of aircraft are approved to be used in aerial firefighting with, on average, a total of 30,000 hours flown each year in firefighting operations across Australia.
CASA requires air operators approved to control firefighting aircraft to identify and manage safety risks such as pilot fatigue. Safety checks and audits of these operators are carried out by CASA.
During the fire season CASA is ready to respond quickly to requests for new or changed operational approvals. CASA also has processes to allow foreign pilots to be used in Australian firefighting operations.