Australian Regulations by Drone Class

Australian Regulations by Drone Class categorize drones based on their weight and intended use, with each class having specific rules to ensure safe and legal operations. Whether operating micro drones for recreational purposes or larger commercial drones, understanding the Australian Regulations by Drone Class is crucial for maintaining compliance with CASA’s guidelines. These regulations help minimize risks by setting clear operational limits and safety requirements for each drone category.

Micro Drones (100g to 250g)

Definition

Micro drones are those that weigh between 100 grams and 250 grams. These lightweight drones are often used for recreational purposes and pose minimal risk to people and property.

Regulations

• Registration: Drones in this weight class must be registered with CASA if they are used for commercial purposes or if they have a camera.
• Operational Limits: Micro drones must be operated under the Standard Operating Conditions, which include maintaining visual line of sight (VLOS), flying below 120 meters (400 feet), and avoiding no-fly zones.
• Exemptions: Recreational use of micro drones does not require registration unless the drone has a camera or is used for commercial purposes.

Typical Use Cases

• Recreational Flying: Hobbyist flying in open areas such as parks or backyards.
• Indoor Use: Safe to fly indoors due to their small size and lightweight design.

Very Small Drones (250g to 2kg)

Definition

Very small drones weigh between 250 grams and 2 kilograms. These drones are commonly used for both recreational and commercial purposes, including photography and surveying.

Regulations

• Registration: Mandatory for both recreational and commercial use. Operators must also obtain accreditation from CASA.
• Operational Limits: Must adhere to Standard Operating Conditions, including flying below 120 meters (400 feet), maintaining VLOS, and keeping at least 30 meters away from people.
• RePL Requirement: For commercial operations, a Remote Pilot License (RePL) is required unless the operation qualifies under the Excluded Category.

Typical Use Cases

• Aerial Photography: Capturing images and videos for personal or commercial use.
• Surveying: Used by small businesses or individuals for land surveys or inspections.

Small Drones (2kg to 25kg)

Definition

Small drones weigh between 2 kilograms and 25 kilograms. These drones are often used for more complex commercial operations, including industrial inspections, agricultural monitoring, and professional cinematography.

Regulations

• Registration: Required for all operations, regardless of the purpose.
• RePL and ReOC: Commercial operators must hold an RePL, and operations may require a Remote Operator’s Certificate (ReOC) depending on the complexity of the tasks.
• Operational Limits: Must follow Standard Operating Conditions, with additional safety measures as required by CASA for specific operations.

Typical Use Cases

• Industrial Inspections: Inspecting infrastructure such as power lines, pipelines, and buildings.
• Agriculture: Monitoring crops and livestock for precision farming.

Medium Drones (25kg to 150kg)

Definition

Medium drones weigh between 25 kilograms and 150 kilograms. These drones are used for specialized commercial and industrial applications, requiring advanced certifications and adherence to strict safety protocols.

Regulations

• Certification: Both the operator and the drone must be certified by CASA. This includes obtaining an RePL and ReOC, along with additional approvals for specific operations.
• Operational Authorization: Operators must apply for an Operational Authorization from CASA, which includes submitting a comprehensive risk assessment and safety management plan.
• Controlled Airspace: Operations often require coordination with air traffic control and may be conducted in controlled airspace.

Typical Use Cases

• Cargo Transport: Used for transporting goods, especially in remote or hard-to-reach areas.
• Large-Scale Surveying: Employed in mining, construction, or large infrastructure projects.

Large Drones (Above 150kg)

Definition

Large drones weigh more than 150 kilograms and are typically used for highly specialized commercial and industrial applications, such as long-range cargo delivery, complex surveillance, and large-scale environmental monitoring.

Regulations

• Certification and Licensing: Operators must obtain comprehensive certifications, including an RePL, ReOC, and additional CASA approvals. The drone itself must also meet stringent certification standards similar to those for manned aircraft.
• Operational Conditions: CASA imposes strict conditions on the operation of large drones, including detailed flight planning, safety protocols, and continuous oversight.
• Insurance: Due to the high risk associated with large drone operations, comprehensive insurance coverage is mandatory.

Typical Use Cases

• Long-Range Cargo Delivery: Transporting goods over long distances, particularly in remote areas.
• Environmental Monitoring: Conducting large-scale environmental surveys and wildlife monitoring.

Summary

Adhering to Australian Regulations by Drone Class is essential for ensuring that drone operators comply with safety protocols and legal standards. By understanding the specific rules for each drone class, operators can conduct their activities safely, reduce risks, and contribute to safer skies in Australia. Whether flying micro, small, or large drones, compliance with these class-based regulations ensures responsible and legal drone usage.