We classify RPAS and AAM aircraft and systems based on whether they are certified by type. We determine these categories according to the level of assurance required for the aircraft and their intended operations. Aircraft and aircraft systems include:
- airworthiness and certification of aircraft
- qualification and integration of systems and equipment
- design, production, and maintenance organisation approvals
- automation and autonomy
- Command, control, and communications.
What we want to achieve
We intend to develop clear pathways and regulations to certify RPAS and AAM aircraft and systems. There should be a harmonised framework consistent with major international bodies. This includes ICAO and regulators like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This framework will use performance-based standards, including those published by standards development organisations.
One framework is the Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA). This is the Joint Authorities for Rulemaking on Unmanned Systems (JARUS) method to safely create, evaluate and conduct uncrewed aircraft system operation.
In developing these pathways, we propose the following principles:
- We will seek to align with like-minded countries for this work and will accept international standards where appropriate in preference to developing unique Australian standards.
- Certification of AAM aircraft would be in line with international regulatory frameworks using appropriate airworthiness standards and acceptable means of compliance.
- Higher risk RPAS that need to be certified by type will have policy set in line with international regulatory frameworks. We will use appropriate airworthiness standards and means of compliance in the certification process. These will ensure a safety level comparable to traditional aircraft when operating in any airspace.
- Lower risk RPAS that we do not need to certify will be operationally approved in line with recognised methods and processes.