We are often asked the question 'What is an RePL? How does that relate to an ReOC? What does that have to do with CASA, or my drone?'
Well, here is a brief explanation of these terms, and what they mean to you:
RPAS:
RPA; RPAS; UAV; UAS - These all refer to the the remotely piloted aircraft more commonly known as a Drone. Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) is the more commonly recognised international term. All other descriptions or names are just as valid, and until recently Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) was the Australian term. Unmanned Aerial Services (UAS) describes what an operator might be doing using a drone, sometimes called an Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA). You may see all of these names in use, so we need to be aware of their meanings.
CASA:
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) is the Australian Government organisation that is responsible for the safe operation of aircraft in Australian Airspace, as well as Australian aircraft overseas. As RPAS operators, we are all using airspace from the moment we lift off the ground. As airspace users, we must comply with all of CASA's rules and regulations, to ensure that the skies remain safe, and that we operate our RPAS flights legally.
RePL:
A Remote Pilot License (RePL) is a certification that is issued by CASA, and awarded to individuals who have successfully proven that they are competent to control RPAS, knowledgeable regarding regulations and maintenance, responsible and mature enough to react to changing conditions, and above all else safe to operate an RPAS. Inspectrum UAS offer CASA certified RePL training courses, normally taking 5 days, that cover everything needed to become RePL certified by CASA.
ReOC:
A Remote Operator's Certificate (ReOC) is a certification that is issued by CASA, awarded to business entities (eg. PTY LTD, Sole Trader, etc). Once you have gained your RePL, you may operate commercially with a ReOC holder, or apply to get your own certificate.
To gain a ReOC you must:
- complete Application Forms 101-02 and Form 101-04;
- complete and submit supporting documentation including your RPAS operations manual and RPAS operations procedures (Library);
- pay the assessment fee; and
- participate in an interview with CASA.
CASA will issue the certificate upon successful completion of the assessment process.
Inspectrum UAS is able to help with the preparation of the above listed manuals, however the applicant is required to submit their own application to CASA, and to fully understand the documentation before CASA approval will be granted. Contact us for more information.
