What’s Happening?
Commercial drone operators can now benefit from faster airspace authorisations at Broome, Cairns, Coffs Harbour, Essendon, Hobart, and Melbourne airports, following the Automated Airspace Authorisations Trial (AAAT) expansion.
The initiative, launched by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and Airservices Australia in May 2021, streamlines access to controlled areas, enhancing efficiency for eligible operators.
Why It Matters?
The AAAT is a game-changer for Australia’s drone industry and airspace management. It allows commercial operators to access restricted airspace more efficiently while maintaining safety.
This development supports innovation, reduces administrative burdens, and contributes to the growth of the commercial drone sector.
Local Impact
The trial’s inclusion of airports like Hobart and Cairns opens new opportunities for local drone operators, encouraging technological advancements and business expansion in diverse sectors such as agriculture, construction, and emergency services.
By the Numbers
- 1,400+ flight authorisations: Since the trial’s launch, more than 1,400 automated authorisations have been granted.
- $1.2 million saved: The industry has collectively saved over $1.2 million in application fees.
- Late 2025 milestone: Airservices Australia’s Flight Information Management System (FIMS), integral to the broader Uncrewed Traffic Management (UTM) ecosystem, is set to launch in late 2025.
Zoom In
Eligible drone operators holding a remotely piloted operator’s certificate (ReOC) can apply for authorisations via CASA-verified safety apps.
Requests, which must meet stringent safety criteria, are processed in near real-time for flights planned up to 30 days in advance.
Operations are daylight-restricted, utilise registered drones under 25 kilograms, and require no prior air traffic control notification.
“Extending and expanding the trial demonstrates our commitment to supporting safe and efficient drone operations while ensuring the safety of airspace for all users,” said Will Whitelaw, CASA Senior RPAS Specialist.
Luke Gumley, Airservices Australia’s Head of Transformation Uncrewed Services, highlighted the collaboration behind the trial’s success, stating, “The significant work and collaboration between Airservices and CASA that has enabled the trial extension and expansion is a testament to our joint commitment in ensuring the safe integration of thousands of drones into Australia’s complex airspace.”
Zoom Out
The trial represents a critical step towards integrating drones into Australia’s broader airspace.
It aligns with the development of the UTM ecosystem, which will manage increasing drone activity efficiently.
What to Look For Next
The rollout of the Flight Information Management System (FIMS) in late 2025 will provide an advanced framework to support safe and streamlined uncrewed operations across Australia.
CASA and Airservices Australia continue to invite eligible operators to participate in the AAAT, with details available on CASA’s website.
