- A Chief Remote Pilot (CRP) oversees the safe and compliant operation of drones within an organisation that holds an ReOC.
- The role covers safety, compliance and operational management, including supervising remote pilots and maintaining records.
- To qualify, you generally need an applicable Remote Pilot Licence (RePL), relevant operational experience and successful completion of the required CRP assessment.
- The assessment tests your understanding of CASA regulations, operational procedures and your responsibilities under an organisation’s ReOC.
- An effective CRP combines flying experience with leadership, risk management and regulatory knowledge.
As the use of drones increases across different business sectors, the role of Chief Remote Pilot (CRP) has become increasingly important. In this blog, we look at what a CRP is, their key responsibilities and how to become one.
What is a Chief Remote Pilot (CRP) Under CASA Rules?
A Chief Remote Pilot is the person responsible for overseeing the safe and compliant operation of drones within an organisation that holds a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operator’s Certificate (ReOC), under Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) rules.
The CRP is responsible for overseeing safety, compliance and operational management of the organisation’s drone activities. The CRP must hold the appropriate qualifications and experience required for the role, including an applicable Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) and successful completion of the required CRP assessment.
The role requires a strong understanding of CASA regulations, the organisation’s operational procedures and the practical requirements of safely managing drone operations.
Core Duties and Legal Responsibilities of a CRP
As the person responsible for the operational oversight of drone activities, a CRP has several key responsibilities, including:
- Ensuring drone operations comply with Australian aviation regulations and the organisation’s approved procedures.
- Supervising remote pilots and flight operations.
- Managing risk, compliance and training records.
- Ensuring pilots follow CASA requirements and company procedures.
- Overseeing operational approvals, permissions and flight planning where required.
The role of a CRP is particularly important for businesses conducting more complex drone operations, such as flights near controlled airspace, large-scale commercial work or operations requiring additional CASA approval.
RePL vs CRP at a Glance
| Aspect | Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) | Chief Remote Pilot (CRP) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Licence to operate certain remotely piloted aircraft | Oversight role within an ReOC organisation |
| Scope | Individual flying privileges | Safety, compliance and operational management across the organisation |
| Prerequisites | CASA eligibility, ARN, approved theory and practical training | Applicable RePL, relevant operational experience, CRP training and assessment |
| Key responsibilities | Flying within licence conditions and CASA rules | Supervising pilots, managing records, overseeing approvals and risk |
How to Qualify and Pass the CASA CRP Assessment
If you want to manage commercial drone operations, becoming a CRP can be an important step in your career. The qualification process is designed to ensure you have the knowledge and skills required to oversee safe and compliant drone operations.
- Hold an appropriate Remote Pilot Licence (RePL).
- Build relevant operational experience in professional drone operations.
- Complete the required Chief Remote Pilot training and assessment.
The assessment tests your understanding of CASA regulations, operational procedures and your responsibilities when operating under an organisation’s ReOC.
Key topics to understand include:
- Pilot responsibilities.
- Compliance and regulatory processes.
- Maintenance requirements.
- Operational approvals and permissions.
- Pre-flight procedures.
- Safety management.
- Handling operational incidents.
- Operating near controlled airspace or airports.
- Adverse weather conditions.
As the CRP has significant responsibility for the safety and compliance of an organisation’s drone operations, gaining relevant practical and theoretical experience before undertaking the role is recommended. Current regulatory requirements are published on the CASA drones website.
The Importance of a Chief Remote Pilot in an ReOC Organisation
A CRP is a critical role within an organisation that operates under an ReOC. They are responsible for the general oversight of drone operations, maintaining safety standards and ensuring the organisation operates in accordance with its procedures and CASA requirements.
The role carries significant responsibility, which is why the training and assessment process is designed to ensure CRPs have the appropriate knowledge and skills to oversee drone operations effectively. Businesses often pair CRP training with ReOC training when establishing their drone program.
How to Hire or Become an Effective Chief Remote Pilot
To become an effective CRP, more than simply holding an RePL is required. A strong CRP combines operational flying experience with leadership skills, risk management and an in-depth understanding of CASA regulations and the organisation’s procedures.
If you are aiming to become a CRP, gaining hands-on experience in professional drone operations is valuable, alongside developing skills in safety management, compliance and operational standards. Organisations building a full drone capability may find an enterprise training package a practical way to develop pilots and oversight roles together.
Conclusion
As commercial drone use continues to increase across many sectors, businesses rely on experienced and knowledgeable CRPs to manage their drone operations.
A CRP plays an important role in maintaining safe, compliant and efficient drone operations, making it a position with significant responsibility within an organisation operating under an ReOC.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Chief Remote Pilot do?
A Chief Remote Pilot oversees the safety, compliance and operational management of drone activities within an organisation holding an ReOC. This includes supervising remote pilots, managing risk and training records, and overseeing approvals and flight planning.
What qualifications do you need to become a CRP?
You generally need an appropriate Remote Pilot Licence, relevant operational experience, and successful completion of the required CRP training and assessment.
Does every drone business need a Chief Remote Pilot?
A CRP is a critical role within organisations operating under an ReOC, where the position is responsible for overseeing drone operations and ensuring compliance with CASA requirements and company procedures.
Is a CRP the same as an RePL holder?
No. An RePL is a licence allowing an individual to fly certain remotely piloted aircraft. A CRP is an oversight role within an ReOC organisation that requires an applicable RePL plus additional experience, training and assessment.
