Flying drones for fun, and even for profit, is becoming more and more popular. However, did you know that there are laws around how and when you can fly your drone here in Australia? That’s right it’s not as simple as pressing on a switch and soaring the skies.
There are many considerations you will need to keep in mind if you want to pick up this exciting hobby, or even to elevate your business, such as how high you can fly, whether you are near to other people and property, if you are a CASA approved drone Licence, or even if there is a possibility of your aircraft encroaching on commercial aircraft airspace.
Keep reading if you’re ready to know everything you need to know about flying your drone safely within the law.
What Are Australia’s Licensing Requirements?
This first one is a biggy. If you want to use your drone commercially you may need a remote pilot’s Licence from a CASA-approved training provider. Lucky for you, here at Global Drone Solutions we provide the very best CASA drone training for professionals and hobbyists.
Some hobbyists may not be legally required to have a CASA drone pilots licence but there are so many things you will learn from gaining your drone pilots Licence. From aerodynamics, navigation, meteorology, human factors and many more professional flying techniques.
When Can I Fly My Drone?
If you intend on flying your drone it must only be flown during the day and your drone must be in your visual line of sight at all times. Even if you can view where it is on an external screen, you will still need to be able to physically see it with your own eyes.
Where Can’t I Fly My Drone?
There are quite a few places you can’t fly your drone and these rules really are in place to keep you and others safe.
These places include:
- Drones weighing over 100g cannot fly within 5.5kg of a controlled aerodrome.
- Emergency Rescue situations such as search and rescue, police operations, car accidents, firefighting situations, etc. Unless of course, you have prior permission.
- Within 30m metres of anyone who is not involved in your drone operation.
- Over any persons or property- this rule prohibits any flying over beaches, parks, events, sports games etc.
How High Can I Fly My Drone?
Drones are prohibited from flying any higher than 120metres (400ft). (CASA Drone Rules)
This is to avoid any accidents involving aircraft such as helicopters and commercial airliners.
Can I Record or Take Photos with My Drone?
Naturally, many drone pilots take up this activity as a way of recording and photographing our beautiful country from a bird’s eye view. However, there are some rules here and it’s for good reason. Respecting the privacy of others is incredibly important and so, as a responsible drone pilot, you shouldn’t photograph or record other people without their permission. If you do, you could be breaching state laws.
How Many Drones Can I Fly?
This seems like a simple one to answer, and it is, but there are some people out there who love a little risk. So, when it comes to drone flying you should only ever fly one drone at a time. Seems like common sense, you can only control one drone at a time.
Lastly
Most of Australia’s laws surrounding drone flying are common sense, good practice, and just general respect for others. However, it is important to be aware of them. Getting yourself CASA drone pilot licence is a great way of learning these rules, and whatever new ones come along as the industry progresses.
If you’re ready to take your drone piloting to the next level Global Drone Solutions is ready to show you how. Contact us here or give us a call on 1300 437 663 to find out how we can help you.
