Question 1

Can I fly my drone in Sydney Harbour?

Accepted Answer

Sydney Harbour (R405A/B) is restricted airspace. If you do not hold a Remote Pilot License (RePL) and are flying under a Remote Operators Certificate (ReOC), you can not fly your drone in Sydney Harbour. The restricted airspace exists due to the high volume of sea planes, helicopters and general air traffic in the vicinity.

Question 2

What are the major restricted airspace areas in NSW?

Accepted Answer

YSNW (NOWRA) - Jervis Bay Region and SurroundsYSRI (RICHMOND) - West SydneyYWLM (WILLIAMTOWN) - NewcastleThe above are the major restricted airspace areas in NSW due to RAAF or other army activity. It is important that you do not fly your drone in these or any restricted areas in Australia. You can check our documentation published on ERSA for more information on flying your drone in these areas.If you do not hold a Remote Pilot License (RePL) and are flying under a Remote Operators Certificate (ReOC), you can not fly your drone in restricted airspace.

Question 3

How far do I need to stay away from an airport (or a controlled aerodrome)?

Accepted Answer

You must keep your RPA/drone at least 5.5km (3 nautical miles) away from controlled aerodromes (usually those with a control tower). If you do not hold a Remote Pilot License (RePL) and are flying under a Remote Operators Certificate (ReOC), you can not fly your drone in controlled airspace. The restricted airspace exists due to the high volume of sea planes, helicopters and general air traffic in the vicinity.

Question 4

What are the Standard Operating Conditions?

Accepted Answer

You must not fly higher than 120 metres (400 ft) above the ground, in all locations (etc.)You must not fly your RPA/drone over or near an area affecting public safety or where emergency operations are underway (without prior approval). This could include situations such as a car crash, police operations, a fire and associated firefighting efforts, and search and rescue operations.You must not fly your RPA/drone within 30 metres of people, unless the other person is part of controlling or navigating the drone.You must only fly one RPA/drone at a time.You must keep your RPA/drone at least 5.5km away from controlled aerodromes (usually those with a control tower)You may fly within 5.5km of a non-controlled aerodrome or helicopter landing site (HLS) only if manned aircraft are not operating to or from the aerodrome. If you become aware of manned aircraft operating to or from the aerodrome/ HLS, you must manoeuvre away from the aircraft and land as soon as safely possible. This includes:not operating your RPA/drone within the airfield boundarynot operating your RPA/drone in the approach and departure paths of the aerodromeYou must only fly during the day and keep your RPA/drone within visual line-of sight.This means being able to orientate, navigate and see the aircraft with your own eyes (rather than through a device at all times). Example: goggles or video screen.You must not fly your RPA over the top of people. Examples include festivals, sporting ovals, populated beaches, parks, busy roads and footpaths.You must not operate an RPA/drone in a way that creates a hazard to another aircraft, another person, or propertyYou must not operate your RPA/drone in prohibited or restricted areas.Please respect personal privacy. Don’t record or photograph people without their consent—this may breach state laws.*Please note: If you want to operate outside these conditions (for example, fly closer than 30 metres to people), you will need to hold a remote operator’s certificate (ReOC).The above operating conditions are a broad reflection of Civil Aviation Safety Regulations Part 101 and do not include all the regulations you must follow. You must abide by all the regulations detailed in Part 101. If you don’t you could face enforcement action, including large fines and possible jail time.

Question 5

What is the process to operate drones commercially in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Commercial drone operations are split into two categories in Australia - less than 2kg and over 2kg. If you plan to fly a drone less than 2kg commercially (i.e. DJI Spark, Mavic or Phantom), you can fly under what is known as the 'excluded category'.  Under the excluded category, you need to fly under the standard operating conditions. As long as you are doing that - all you need to do is apply to CASA for an Aviation Reference Number and notify CASA when you intend to fly. This notification is valid for three years, and you can notify CASA about multiple locations at a time.  Hot tip for

Question 6

What is the maximum height I can fly my drone in Australia?

Accepted Answer

You must not fly your drone higher than 120 metres (400 ft) above the ground. This will also vary according to where you fly. For example, flying near Bondi Beach limits you to 30 metres, when obtaining a permit to fly in Sydney Harbour Airspace (R405A/B) - approval is generally limited up to 200 metres. We are qualified and hold a Remote Pilot License, so when flying under a ReOC we can obtain permits to fly above 400 feet if you require that for your specific aerial imagery needs!

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