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Guidelines for Non-CDU Staff Operating RPAS under the NACAS ReOC

Learn how to operate RPAS under the NACAS ReOC with detailed steps and requirements.

The North Australia Centre for Autonomous Systems (NACAS) holds a Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Remote Operators Certificate (ReOC) for a wide range of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) operations, including Extended and Beyond Visual Line-of-Sight (BVLOS), night, operations near aerodromes or restricted areas, and above 400 ft operations.

All RPAS operations under the NACAS ReOC are approved by the Chief Remote Pilot (CRP) and include third-party liability insurance with no excess if compliant. Non-CDU staff can join as remote pilots under the NACAS ReOC, subject to CRP approval, CASA obligations, and insurance criteria. Pilots must follow NACAS procedures for mission planning, approvals, and flight logs to be compliant.

Steps to Get Started

Step 1: Contact us

If you wish to be added to the NACAS ReOC, please contact the NACAS Chief Remote Pilot at RPAS@cdu.edu.au. Alternatively, click on the link below.

NACAS will accept external RPAS pilots on a case-by-case basis, depending on the pilot’s accreditation level, experience, and the nature of the work.

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Step 2: Provide Documents

The following documents must be supplied to the NACAS Chief Remote Pilot before flying:

  • RePL Certificate

  • AROC Certificate

  • Copy of pilot logbook

  • Copy of other qualifications (e.g., BVLOS OCTA exam, Cert III Aviation (Remote Pilot)

Step 3: Undertake Inductions

Inductions (conducted by the Chief Remote Pilot) must be undertaken before flying:

  • General theory induction and type training endorsement on the RPAS of choice.

  • Competency in the FlyFreely flight management system and flight approval process.

  • NACAS operational processes aligned with CDU Policy and procedures for fieldwork.

Important information

RPAS

  • Remote pilots can bring their own RPAS or hire from the NACAS fleet.

  • All RPA must also be registered and listed on the NACAS ReOC.

  • The Chief Remote Pilot will register the RPA once the aircraft make, model, and serial number are provided.

Costs

Service Cost (AUD) Description
Initial Setup Fee $5,850 Assistance with CASA compliance, aircraft registration, mission planning, flight approvals, record keeping, and ongoing support
Equipment Hire (optional) Varies Based on items, conditions, and flight time