Certifications

All commercial pilots in Australia need as a bare minimum this RePL certification in place. A digital version of this certification can be added to your smartphone. There are different categories for RePL i.e. depending on drone model / type, such as up to 7 kg and 25 kg multi-rotor, etc. To get this certificate you have to follow a CASA approved training provider course with theory, practical exams.

An Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate (AROC) is required by anyone who needs to communicate on an aviation air-band radio frequency and is not already licensed or qualified. For our drone pilots this implies always having access to an air-band radio for compliance purposes. 

All drone pilots and the chief remote pilot (CRP) operate under the umbrella of a so-called ReOC, which stands for an RPA Operator's Certificate and this allows flying commercial missions. The ReOC can be obtained through training course with a CASA approved training provider. The course consists of theory, a preparation of a mockup mission and identification of any knowledge gaps (if needed) and addressing them. The ReOC requires to be updated every so often to stay current. 

With necessary experience flying drones additional certifications and approvals get be gained later such as the ones below:   

• BVLOS CASA  Instrument RPAS2019M-3978
• Certified to operate Beyond Visual Line of Sight
• Permission to fly at night
• Permission to fly tethered