RePL (Remote Pilot License)

Definition

RePL stands for Remote Pilot License. It is a certification issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) in Australia that authorizes individuals to operate drones for commercial purposes. The RePL demonstrates that the holder has the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to safely operate a drone in compliance with Australian aviation regulations.

Usage

The RePL is required for anyone who wishes to operate drones for commercial activities or other activities that are not classified as recreational in Australia. This license ensures that the operator understands and adheres to the rules and guidelines set forth by CASA, including airspace regulations, safety protocols, and operational limits.

Relevance to the Industry

The RePL is crucial for the professionalization of the drone industry in Australia. It sets a standard of competency for drone operators, ensuring that they can conduct operations safely and legally. Holding an RePL is mandatory for drone pilots who want to engage in commercial activities, such as aerial photography, surveying, and inspections.

How Does a Remote Pilot License (RePL) Work?

Eligibility and Enrollment:

1. Eligibility Requirements:
   • Minimum Age: To apply for an RePL, you must be at least 16 years old. For certain types of operations or larger drones, the minimum age might be higher.
   • Basic Understanding: While no formal qualifications are needed to start the process, having a basic understanding of aviation principles, such as air law and meteorology, can be beneficial.
2. Training Program Enrollment:
   • CASA-Approved Training: You must enroll in a training program approved by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). These programs are offered by various training organizations across Australia and cover both theoretical and practical aspects of drone operation.
   • Course Content: The training program typically includes modules on air law, meteorology, navigation, human factors, risk management, flight planning, and emergency procedures. Practical flying skills are also developed during this course.

Theoretical and Practical Training:

3. Theoretical Knowledge:
   • Classroom or Online Learning: The theoretical component of the RePL course can be completed either in a classroom setting or online, depending on the training provider. It covers essential knowledge required to operate a drone safely and in compliance with CASA regulations.
   • Theory Exam: After completing the theoretical training, you must pass a theory exam. This exam tests your understanding of the topics covered, such as aviation law, airspace classification, safety regulations, and operational procedures.
4. Practical Flight Training:
   • Hands-On Experience: Practical training involves hands-on flying experience under the supervision of a qualified instructor. During this phase, you learn how to operate a drone in various scenarios, including takeoff, landing, flight maneuvers, and handling emergency situations.
   • Practical Assessment: At the end of the practical training, you will undergo an assessment to demonstrate your ability to safely and effectively operate a drone. This includes performing specific flight maneuvers, following safety protocols, and managing unexpected situations.

Certification and Licensing:

5. Application for RePL:
   • Documentation Submission: Once you have successfully completed the training and passed both the theoretical and practical assessments, your training provider will submit your application to CASA on your behalf. This includes all required documentation, such as your training records and exam results.
   • License Issuance: CASA reviews your application, and if everything is in order, you will be issued a Remote Pilot License (RePL). This license certifies that you are qualified to operate drones commercially in Australia under CASA regulations.
6. Operational Privileges and Limitations:
   • Commercial Operations: With an RePL, you are authorized to conduct commercial drone operations, which include activities like aerial photography, surveying, inspections, and agricultural monitoring.
   • Operational Limits: As an RePL holder, you must adhere to specific operational limits set by CASA. These include maintaining visual line of sight (VLOS) with the drone, not exceeding a certain altitude (usually 120 meters or 400 feet), and avoiding restricted airspace unless you have the necessary approvals.

Maintaining the RePL:

7. Renewal and Recurrent Training:
   • Validity Period: The RePL typically remains valid for an extended period, but you may be required to complete recurrent training or assessments to maintain your license, especially if there are significant changes in regulations or drone technology.
   • Ongoing Compliance: It is crucial to stay informed about updates to CASA regulations and ensure that your operations continue to comply with current laws. This includes understanding any new airspace restrictions, safety requirements, or technological advancements.
8. Further Certifications:
   • Advanced Operations: If you wish to conduct more advanced operations, such as Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights or night operations, you may need to obtain additional certifications or approvals from CASA. These often require further training and assessments beyond the standard RePL.

By following these steps, individuals can obtain and maintain a Remote Pilot License (RePL), enabling them to operate drones commercially in Australia while ensuring compliance with CASA’s safety and operational standards.

Example in Use

“The company required all of its drone operators to obtain a Remote Pilot License (RePL) to ensure compliance with CASA regulations and to safely conduct commercial drone operations.”

Frequently Asked Questions about RePL (Remote Pilot License)

1. How do you obtain a Remote Pilot License (RePL) in Australia?

Answer: To obtain a RePL in Australia, you must:

• Complete Approved Training: Enroll in a CASA-approved training course that covers both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The course typically includes topics such as air law, meteorology, navigation, flight performance, and operational procedures.
• Pass a Theory Exam: After completing the theoretical portion of the training, you must pass a written exam that tests your understanding of the regulations and safety protocols required for drone operations.
• Demonstrate Practical Competence: You will also need to demonstrate your ability to operate a drone safely and competently during a practical assessment. This includes performing specific maneuvers, handling emergency situations, and adhering to safety guidelines.
• Apply for the RePL: Once you have successfully completed the training and assessments, you can apply for the RePL through CASA. Your training provider will typically assist with the application process.

2. What are the operational privileges of an RePL holder?

Answer: An RePL holder is authorized to:

• Conduct Commercial Operations: Operate drones for commercial purposes, including aerial photography, surveying, agriculture, inspections, and more.
• Operate in Controlled Airspace (with Approval): With the appropriate approvals, an RePL holder can operate drones in controlled airspace, which requires coordination with air traffic control.
• Fly Drones Over 2kg: The RePL allows operators to fly drones that weigh more than 2kg, which is often required for more complex commercial operations.
• Apply for Additional Permissions: RePL holders can apply for additional permissions, such as operating beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) or flying at night, provided they meet the necessary conditions and receive CASA approval.

3. What is the difference between an RePL and an ReOC?

Answer: The difference between an RePL and an ReOC is:

• RePL (Remote Pilot License): The RePL is an individual license that certifies a person to operate drones for commercial purposes. It focuses on the pilot’s knowledge and skills in safely operating a drone.
• ReOC (Remote Operator’s Certificate): The ReOC is issued to organizations that conduct drone operations. It certifies that the organization has the necessary procedures, safety systems, and qualified personnel to operate drones commercially. While the RePL is about the individual operator, the ReOC pertains to the overall operation and management of drone activities within a company.