People
March 2024
PE7: Monitor and update rules to support new RePL licensing requirements
Not started
Review and update rules as needed so they are fit for purpose as operational needs evolve. Clarifying requirements to enhance and mature the rules.
Principle: Adaptive and scalable.
July 2024
PE2: Align RPAS training and licensing requirements with international standards
In progress
Work to align and improve the efficiency of RPAS licensing requirements to harmonise with international (including ICAO) standards.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.
October 2024
PE1: Begin implementation of regulatory and system changes following the review of RePL requirements
In progress
Begin implementing regulatory and system changes based on RePL requirements review. Future-proof the licensing system to accommodate industry growth and evolving concepts of operation. This could include streamlined pathways for medium RPAS licensing.
Principle: Adaptive and scalable.
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We are working with industry through a TWG, established by the Aviation Safety Advisory Panel, on medium category and broader RPAS licensing framework improvements.
January 2025
PE4: Review radio operator competency requirements for remote pilots
Not started
Identify the gap between remote pilot training and competencies and what is required to safely coordinate with crewed aviation.
Principle: Safety first.
October 2025
PE3: Commence implementation of standard training and licensing requirements for personnel involved in piloted passenger carrying AAM
Not started
Monitor international developments towards implementing harmonised requirements for AAM. This work needs to consider how aviation professionals transition their current licensing to new vehicles and technologies.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.
January 2026
PE5: Review training requirements for remote pilots conducting BVLOS operations in controlled airspace
Not started
Build on the BVLOS OCTA exam developed in 2023 to meet remote pilot training needs. Use operational maturity to inform the timing.
Principle: Safety first.
January 2026
PE6: Consider medical standards for RPAS and AAM operators
Not started
This activity and activation of work within ICAO will contribute to the development of medical standards for RPAS and AAM operators.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.
April 2027
PE8: Develop a specific set of outcome-based standards for RePL training on increasingly complex RPAS
Not started
Advance the current RePL training standards to support the safe operation of increasingly complex RPAS.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
Airspace and traffic management
July 2024
AM1: Through the AFAF, develop a transparent, consistent, and scalable method to manage Australian airspace that supports RPAS and AAM integration
In progress
Develop an overarching framework to align and integrate all airspace users, including RPAS, AAM and high-altitude operations. The AFAF is a component of Australia’s long-term airspace reforms.
Principle: Adaptive and scalable.
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Work on AFAF is progressing. We conducted a review of the TWG tasking instructions and membership to ensure adequate representation of emerging technologies. We held a TWG meeting in November 2024 with new members in attendance.
July 2024
AM2a: Review existing flight rules against the future needs for RPAS
In progress
Research how international flight rules for RPAS and AAM have been implemented and investigate how existing flight rules apply to RPAS and AAM in Australia. Review Australian flight rules considering the evolving needs of RPAS, anticipating the need to align with operational maturity and technology advancements over time. Identify future changes required including conspicuity and equipage considerations.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.
July 2024
AM4a: Initial implementation to ease identified risks and support RPAS airspace integration
In progress
Begin implementation towards RPAS airspace integration to mitigate identified risks, facilitate progress, and help gain broader acceptance from all airspace users. This includes maturing systems building from trials for automated airspace authorisations for ReOC holders within 5.5 km of selected controlled airports.
Principle: Adaptive and scalable.
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We expanded the automated airspace authorisations trial (AAAT), a joint initiative by CASA and Airservices.
More than 1,400 automated flight authorisations have been processed. This has saved industry more than $1.2 million in application fees.
CASA continues to work with Airservices to expand authorisations to all civil-controlled aerodromes via FIMS at the end of 2025.
July 2024
AM5: Conduct an analysis to understand the crossover point from self-separation to a ‘managed’ environment
In progress
Conduct analysis to decide the need for, demand drivers, and oversight requirements for RPAS integration.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
July 2024
AM6: Consider standardised airspace requirements for RPAS - RPAS and RPAS - AAM
In progress
Conduct analysis to decide the need for, demand drivers, and oversight requirements for RPAS integration.
Principle: Safety first.
January 2025
AM3: Develop an implementation plan for airspace modernisation that is flexible, scalable and supports all airspace users
Not started
Develop an implementation plan under the AFAF, supported by a long-term strategic airspace plan that will support all airspace users. This will be reliant on both higher-level policy and operational technology.
Principle: Adaptive and scalable.
January 2026
AM7a: Develop standards and capabilities to support the implementation of low flight-level traffic for RPAS
Not started
Develop standards and capabilities to support the implementation of low flight-level traffic management systems for RPAS. This includes exploring existing standards, international developments and Australian airspace needs while aligning with government safety initiatives.
Principle: Safety first.
July 2026
AM2b: Review flight rules against the future needs for AAM
Not started
Research how international flight rules for RPAS and AAM have been implemented and investigate how existing flight rules apply to RPAS and AAM in Australia. Review Australian flight rules considering the evolving needs of AAM, anticipating the need to align with operational maturity and technology advancements over time. Identify future changes required including conspicuity and equipage considerations.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.
January 2027
AM10a: Develop new RPAS segregation requirements to support and use improving technologies such as high levels of automation
Not started
Develop RPAS and AAM segregation requirements that leverage increasing levels of automation and emerging technologies in airspace management. These new requirements aim to enhance aviation safety and increase efficiency.
Principle: Safety first.
January 2027
AM9: Consider airspace requirements for vertiport operations
Not started
Consider airspace requirements to address demand and capacity needs for air traffic into and out of vertiports.
Principle: Adaptive and scalable.
April 2027
AM4b: Initial implementation to ease identified risks and support AAM airspace integration
Not started
Commence implementation to mitigate identified risks and facilitate AAM airspace integration to assist broader acceptance by all airspace users.
Principle: Adaptive and scalable.
January 2028
AM7b: Develop standards and capabilities to support low flight-level traffic management systems for AAM
Not started
Develop standards and capabilities to support low flight-level traffic management systems for AAM. This includes exploring existing standards, international developments and Australian airspace needs while aligning with government safety initiatives.
Principle: Safety first.
Operations
July 2024
OP5: Review and develop pathways to support research and development operations
In progress
Review requirements for research and development; and develop and publish guidance. This activity aims to support industry needs, while ensuring best practices and safety standards throughout systems, operations development and testing processes.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
Show all updates
The release of the discussion paper is experiencing a slight delay for public release. Internal peer review of the paper is expected to close in mid-April, after which CASA will consider feedback and determine next steps for engagement.
Due to standard practices around election periods, we now expect to release the paper after the election.
July 2024
OP6: Guidance material for the carriage of dangerous goods (DG)
In progress
Develop and publish guidance material for the safe carriage of dangerous goods to assist operators to adhere to the rules.
Principle: Balanced and socially responsible.
July 2024
OP7: Implement rule changes from the PIR of CASR Part 101
In progress
Continue to implement the actions that resulted from the 2021 post-implementation review and public consultation in 2022.
Principle: Adaptive and scalable.
July 2024
OP4a: Develop industry guidance to support large RPAS operations
In progress
Review policy and publish industry guidance outlining operational pathways to support the safe operation of large RPAS.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
Show all updates
CASA continues to investigate regulatory pathways to enable commercial operations involving large RPAs without an airworthiness certificate. Communications with industry will be forthcoming once CASA has concluded its investigations.
July 2024
OP8: Continue to develop policy and pathways for the assessment of complex RPAS operations
In progress
Continue to develop policies and pathways for RPAS operations that are relative to the risk and complexity of the operations. This could include further clarification and streamlining of BVLOS pathways, and consideration of high altitude and increasingly automated RPAS. It may include identifying streamlined pathways to enable lower risk RPAS operations.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
July 2024
OP4b: Engage internationally to assist the development of regulatory pathways to resolve the 12 nm issue
In progress
Continue working with ICAO and like-minded regulators at legal and operational levels to help develop regulatory solutions for the 12 nm issue.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.
December 2024
OP4: Conduct a gap analysis of CASR Parts to identify rule changes required to support RPAS and AAM operations
Enduring
Conduct gap analysis of CASR Parts and supporting policies as needed. Detailed industry concepts of operation will help to identify changes required for regulatory readiness for RPAS and AAM operations. The outcome of this work could include the identification of new activities, such as OP4a and OP4b.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.
December 2024
OP3: Work with first responder agencies to enable safe operations and improve safety education
Enduring
We maintain liaison with first responder agencies to enhance education on the safe operation of RPAS and regularly review policies and procedures that support operations.
Principle: Balanced and socially responsible.
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We continue to support State and Territory first responders, to develop procedure manuals for scenario-based operations used in emergencies or recovery efforts.
We may issue exemption instruments from certain regulations to enable the efficient and timely use of RPAS during emergencies.
December 2024
OP2: Develop and publish further guidance material for RPAS operations already enabled in existing rules including acceptable means of compliance
Enduring
We regularly review RPAS policy to apply a risk-based approach that enables safe operations and improves efficiency. This work will be ongoing and will adapt to industry needs.
Principle: Safety first.
Show all updates
We have reviewed and introduced new population density bands associated with the specific operations risk assessment (SORA) criteria, adapted for the Australian environment. These additional population bands give industry greater flexibility in the operational area by providing a more accurate ground risk classification and reducing unnecessary control measures.
The industry responded positively to our ‘Assessing Ground Risk for Beyond Visual Line of Sight Operations’ webinar on 3 December 2024.
We are continuing to improve guidance and pathways for beyond visual line of sight operations and operations over and near people.
December 2024
OP1a: Review existing RPAS approval and oversight processes to make sure they are proportionate to the risk and complexity of operational activities
Enduring
Review processes and supporting documentation in line with current priorities and resourcing. We will consider quality assurance and continuous improvement practices. Where possible, streamline applications while ensuring safety. This could include considering digitisation or similar technologies to enhance efficiency and timeliness.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
January 2025
OP9a: Develop guidance on the operational approval requirements for AAM operations (pilot on board)
Not started
Develop guidance and pathways for operational approval for pilot on board AAM operations with a focus on aviation safety through efficient processes.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
July 2025
OP10: Develop standards for international RPAS operations
Not started
Develop standards for international RPAS operations that align to ICAO standards and recommended practices. This will ensure harmonisation internationally for RPAS operations.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.
July 2025
OP11: Develop SMS and human factor policies for RPAS that are relative to risk and complexity
Not started
Develop safety management system (SMS) and human factors policies relative to the risks and complexity of RPAS operations.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
January 2026
OP15: Consider alternative methods of regulatory oversight, including possible use of self-administering organisations
Not started
Review appropriateness of regulatory oversight as operational activity profiles develop and mature over time. This could include third-party authorisations or the establishment of self-administering organisations.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
January 2027
OP12: Streamline processes for the approval of SMS for RPAS and AAM operators
Not started
Review and, if needed, develop and streamline SMS assessment and approval processes to improve efficiency and make sure requirements are relative to risk.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
January 2027
OP14a: Implement changes required to support operational requirements for AAM
Not started
Implement the necessary changes required to support the introduction of AAM operations to ensure that evolving standards and practices effectively enhance aviation safety.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
April 2027
OP13: Complete analysis to integrate RPAS operational requirements into relevant CASR parts for operations outside the scope of Part 101
Not started
Analyse the need to integrate RPAS operational requirements across the CASR framework to safely cater for the increasing complexity of RPAS aircraft and future operations.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
July 2027
OP1b: Review AAM approval and oversight processes to make sure they are proportionate to the risk and complexity of operational activities
Not started
Review AAM processes, procedures and supporting documentation using quality assurance and continuous improvement practices to streamline applications whilst ensuring assessments of applications deliver safe operations.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
Infrastructure
July 2024
IN1: Develop guidance material, design requirements and rules for vertiports and other infrastructure required to support AAM operations
In progress
Develop guidance material, design requirements, and rules for vertiports and other infrastructure needed to support AAM operations. This initiative will ensure that facilities are safe, efficient, and able to meet AAM needs, helping integration into urban and regional environments.
Principle: Balanced and socially responsible.
October 2024
IN2: Consider a regulatory framework to support RPAS and AAM infrastructure (for example vertiports, vertipads)
In progress
Establish a regulatory framework to support the infrastructure needs for RPAS and AAM operations, including vertiports and vertipads. This framework will outline the rules and standards to ensure safety, efficiency, and integration of AAM infrastructure into regional and urban environments.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
January 2026
IN3: Develop guidance for infrastructure required to support research and development activities
Not started
Develop guidance in relation to the infrastructure needed to support automated flight and airspace flow between vertiports. The activity is also dependent on OEM requirements and operator concepts of operation.
Principle: Balanced and socially responsible.
July 2026
IN4: Develop certification requirements for infrastructure and infrastructure related equipment
Not started
Develop certification requirements for infrastructure and related equipment as demand increases to ensure safety, reliability, and compliance with regulatory standards. These requirements will give a clear framework for evaluating and approving aviation safety aspects of infrastructure necessary for safe RPAS and AAM operations.
Principle: Adaptive and scalable.
Safety and resilience
October 2024
SR6: Work collaboratively across government to understand and establish spectrum requirements for RPAS and AAM
Enduring
Work with ACMA, DITRDCA and Airservices Australia to understand and establish spectrum requirements for RPAS and AAM.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.
December 2024
SR1: Continue to carry out safety education and promotion activities to embed a positive safety culture
Enduring
We will conduct ongoing safety education and promotion activities, informed by industry maturity and needs, for RPAS and AAM operators to foster a positive safety culture.
Principle: Safety first.
Show all updates
On 17 December 2024, we launched Phase 6 of our Know Your Drone campaign. It builds on the successes of earlier phases with practical tools and clear safety messages to help recreational drone operators fly safely and responsibly.
On 20 December 2024, we updated the Part 101 Plain English guide for Micro and Excluded RPA operations. This guide helps accredited drone operators flying micro and excluded category drones understand and follow the rules.
December 2024
SR2: Consider data collection and uses to improve safety results
Enduring
We analyse data from the National Drone Detection System to assess RPAS user behaviour for compliance and aviation safety. We use this data for enforcement related matters and informing mitigation strategies like targeted safety campaigns.
Principle: Safety first.
Show all updates
In October 2024 we held a safety sector risk profile (SSRP) workshop, with a focus on Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS).
We published the RPAS SSRP on 12 December 2024. It focuses on:
- approved CASR Part 101 – Rules for all uncrewed aeronautical activities
- commercial operations up to and including BVLOS.
December 2024
SR5: Coordinate the approach to enforcement between relevant authorities
Enduring
Maintain relationships with enforcement agencies to coordinate appropriate enforcement actions on emerging technologies when needed.
Principle: Balanced and socially responsible.
December 2024
SR4: Work with DITRDCA to provide transparent reporting on RPAS enforcement actions to promote corrective actions and lessons learned
Enduring
We will continue to work with DITRDCA on RPAS-related activities and initiatives to support whole of government efforts.
Principle: Balanced and socially responsible.
December 2024
SR3: Continue to work with industry associations to promote key safety lessons from available data
Enduring
We routinely work with industry associations collaborating over events, including industry webinars and presentations. We prioritise our education and safety awareness campaigns based on risk.
Principle: Safety first.
Aircraft and aircraft systems
October 2024
AA5: Progress the development of a fit for purpose continuing airworthiness policy for higher-risk RPAS
In progress
Review and update maintenance and continuing airworthiness policies for RPAS so they are appropriate as platforms increase in size and complexity. This includes consideration of maintenance personnel authorisations and continuing airworthiness management policies.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
December 2024
AA1: Publish guidance on cybersecurity for RPAS
In progress
Create guidance material for assessing cybersecurity in low and medium-risk RPAS operations.
Principle: Balanced and socially responsible.
December 2024
AA2a: Publish policy position for certifying piloted AAM
In progress
Work with international regulatory authorities to harmonise guidance on the certification of piloted AAM, airworthiness criteria and means of compliance.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.
Show all updates
We held a hydrogen and fuel cell airworthiness meeting on February 26, 2025. Industry shared key challenges and gaps in the regulations. This supports regulations for AAM aircraft in Australia.
January 2025
AA2b: Publish airworthiness criteria and certification guidelines for piloted AAM
Not started
Work with international regulatory authorities to harmonise guidance on the certification of piloted AAM, airworthiness criteria and means of compliance.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.
February 2025
AA4a: Publish a policy position for the airworthiness certification of RPAS
Not started
Review and develop airworthiness regulatory pathways for higher-risk RPAS, to support expected platforms and their safe and efficient operations.
Principle: Adaptive and scalable.
October 2025
AA6: Publish guidance on the evidence required for RPAS airworthiness and operational safety goals
In progress
Work with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and operators to develop procedures and guidance for medium risk RPAS airworthiness. Improve existing regulatory pathways to allow a risk-based approach to RPAS operations.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
Show all updates
We have identified this as a priority task, and we have started working on it. We plan to deliver guidance progressively between now and Q2 2026.
October 2025
AA3: Progress the development of a fit for purpose continuing airworthiness policy for AAM
Not started
Progress the development of a fit-for-purpose continuing airworthiness policy and regulatory pathways. Adopt a proportional approach to AAM maintenance, maintenance personnel licensing, and continuing airworthiness management policies.
Principle: Risk and outcome-based.
February 2026
AA2c: Publish acceptable means of compliance for certification of piloted AAM
Not started
Identify published standards from standards organisations that applicants may use to show compliance with applicable airworthiness requirements. This will need us to work with international regulatory authorities to harmonise as piloted AAM needs mature.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.
March 2026
AA4b: Publish airworthiness criteria and certification guidance for RPAS
Not started
Work with international regulatory authorities to harmonise guidance on airworthiness criteria for certified RPAS.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.
July 2026
AA7a: Develop a policy position for the airworthiness certification of remotely piloted AAM
Not started
Work with international regulatory authorities to develop a harmonised policy for the remote piloted operation of AAM aircraft.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.
July 2026
AA8: Develop a policy position for automation and autonomy in AAM and RPAS
Not started
Work with international regulatory authorities to develop a policy for highly automated and autonomous systems in AAM and RPAS.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.
December 2027
AA7b: Publish airworthiness criteria and certification guidance for remotely piloted AAM
Not started
Work with international regulatory authorities to harmonise guidance on airworthiness criteria.
Principle: Progressive and internationally aligned.