Flight Environment
Review the conditions that affect whether and how the flight can proceed.
- Airspace and nearby aerodromes
- Weather and visibility
- Terrain, structures and obstacles
- People, vehicles and property
- Local site restrictions
SAFETY & COMPLIANCE
Planned as an aviation operation.
Every drone task needs to account for the aircraft, airspace, people, property, weather and site conditions involved. Safety and regulatory requirements are considered before capture begins.
OPERATIONAL DISCIPLINE
Safe outcomes begin with good planning.
Commercial drone operations in Australia are regulated under the civil aviation framework. The requirements that apply depend on factors including aircraft weight, operating category, airspace, location and the nature of the proposed flight.
We assess the operating environment and identify relevant controls, permissions and constraints before proceeding. If a proposed task cannot be conducted safely or within the applicable operating conditions, the plan needs to change.
PLANNING AREAS
Core considerations for each operation.
The level of planning is proportionate to the location, complexity and risk of the work.
Operational Controls
Plan the people, equipment and controls needed for the task.
- Defined flight and capture plan
- Site access and coordination
- Aircraft and battery checks
- Exclusion areas where required
- Contingency and response actions
BEFORE FLIGHT
Assess. Control. Confirm.
A clear go/no-go decision is made against the actual conditions and requirements.
Assess
Understand the task, site, airspace, weather and hazards that could affect the operation.
Control
Plan suitable operating limits, site controls, equipment checks and contingency actions.
Confirm
Verify conditions, approvals and coordination before deciding whether the flight can proceed.
REGULATORY INFORMATION
Australian drone requirements
CASA publishes the rules, guidance and authorisation pathways for commercial drone operations in Australia.
Requirements can change and may differ between operations. Current official guidance should be checked for the proposed activity and location.
Plan your aerial requirement.
Share the location, asset and intended outcome so the operating considerations can be identified early.