Drone operator casts doubt over CASA proposal

Albany commercial drone operator Brad Harkup has doubts whether proposed red tape on the use of the popular aircraft will eventuate.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority plans to introduce new regulatory requirements in late September on the booming drone industry.

Drones under 2kg will no longer need to comply with a number of regulatory approvals including an operator’s certificate and a remote pilot licence to operate for financial gain.

Despite the aim of the changes to cut regulatory costs, save time and reduce paperwork, Mr Harkup who owns Albany Aerial Imaging, said he doubted the rules would eventuate because of public liability.

“I don’t think it will happen, personally,” he said.

“People with smaller drones at 2kg, the insurance won’t cover them because they need licences.

“And I don’t see how they can distinguish between 2kg and 1.9kg — where is the difference?”

Mr Harkup said he was also concerned about the increase of “cowboys” using small, cheaper and unreliable drones.

“I think it will increase the risk of accidents,” he said.

“Now that they can do it there will be more drones in the air.”

CASA aviation safety director Mark Skidmore said the changes to regulations would maintain appropriate safety standards while cutting red tape.

“While safety must always come first, CASA’s aim is to lighten the regulatory requirements where we can,” he said.

“The amended regulations recognise the different safety risks posed by different types of remotely piloted aircraft.

“People intending to utilise the new very small category of commercial operations should understand this can only be done if the standard operating conditions are strictly followed and CASA is notified.

“Penalties can apply if these conditions are not met.”