Some types of RPA can be operated without the need for a remote pilot licence and an operator’s certificate; they are referred to as ‘excluded RPA’ operations [reg 101.237]. All other RPA require either a remote pilot licence or an operators certificate or both [reg 101. 252 Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998 (Cth)].

Micro RPA

This is an excluded RPA. Neither a remote pilot licence nor an operators certificate are needed to fly this aircraft [reg 101.237 (2)] . A micro RPA is subject to all the general regulations regarding RPA operation including the Standard Operating Conditions [reg 101.238].

Very Small RPA

If this RPA is used for sport/ recreational purposes or in accordance with the Standard Operating Conditions [reg 101.238] then neither a remote pilot licence nor an operators certificate are needed to fly this aircraft [reg 101.237 (3)].

This RPA may be flown for commercial gain provided it is flown within the Standard Operating Conditions without the need for either a remote pilot’s licence or an operators certificate. Flying a very small RPA outside of the Standard Operating Conditions for commercial gain will require the operator to hold an operators certificate and the pilot to hold a remote pilots licence.

Small RPA

If this RPA is used for sport/ recreational purposes then neither a remote pilot licence nor an operators certificate are needed to fly this aircraft [reg 101.237 (5)].

Small RPA flown for sport / recreation purposes must comply with the provisions for model aircraft such as being able to see the RPA continuously [reg 101.385], not flying at night without complying with the procedures of an approved aviation administration organisation [reg 101.390], staying away from people and populous areas [reg 101.395]; and flying below 120 metres [ reg 101.400].

Neither a remote pilot licence nor an operators certificate are needed to fly a small RPA on your own land providing the some conditions are met[see further reg 101.237 (4)]. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority must be notified of the intention to conduct an RPA operation and the location.

Limited training and experience exceptions also apply to allowing use without licence or certificate [see further: reg. 101.237 (6)].

Medium RPA

If this RPA is used for sport/ recreational purposes then neither a remote pilot licence nor an operators certificate are needed to fly this aircraft [reg 101.237 (5)].

Medium RPA flown for sport / recreation purposes must comply with the provisions for model aircraft [see reg 101.G].

A remote pilot licence is needed but not an operators certificate to fly a medium RPA providing the following conditions for landholders, but certain conditions apply: [see reg 101.237 (7)].

Limited training and experience exceptions also apply to allowing use without licence or certificate [see further: reg 101.237 (6)].

Large RPA

A large RPA is not an excluded RPA.

To operate it legally you needed a remote pilot licence [reg 101.252]; an operators certificate [reg 101.270]; and a special certificate of airworthiness (restricted category), or an experimental certificate [reg 101.255].

The large RPA has to be maintained as a class B aircraft [reg 101.260,101.265] and is only able to be operated with approval of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority [reg 101.275].