Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC)

As an organisation wanting to operate commercial drones, you will require a Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC). This requirement can be likened to an airline such as QANTAS. QANTAS as a company has an Air Operator’s Certificate and each pilot has their own pilot’s licence relevant to the aircraft operated. Having a Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC) allows the company to operate commercial drones anywhere in Australia with the individual holding a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL).

To obtain a Remote Operators Certificate (ReOC), your organisation will need:

• Completed Operations Manuals
• Nominated Chief Remote Pilot (Must hold a Remote Pilot Licence)
• Company Aviation Reference Number (CASA Form 1170)
• Completed application forms (CASA Form 101-06 and CASA Form 101-08)

Step 1 – Submit the application for the Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC).

You can choose to submit an application directly to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) or through a CASA delegate. A delegate can usually complete the process in a number of weeks, whereas CASA would usually take a number of months. Please note a CASA delegate can only process an initial application within the standard operating conditions.

Step 2 – Complete a Job Safety Assessment/Risk Assessment. 

The CASA delegate will issue the nominated Chief Remote Pilot with a job scenario similar to that which the organisation would undertake. The nominated Chief Remote Pilot will be given a few days to prepare a Flight Authorisation, Job Safety Assessment and Risk Assessment.

Step 3 – Complete a telephone interview

The nominated Chief Remote Pilot (CrP) will conduct an interview with the CASA delegate. The interview will run for a couple of hours and cover questions about:

• Roles and responsibilities of the CrP
• ReOC operations
• Air law
• Specific questions about the scenario response

Aviassist can be involved in the ReOC application process as much or as little as required. Our RPAS specialists have years of experience in remotely piloted and piloted aircraft operations and manuals. We understand the importance of ensuring an operator can maintain compliance and safety while getting the task done.

I need operations manuals – Aviassist’s “Do it Yourself” Operations manual will provide you with a copy of the latest CASA template customised to your organisation, ready to submit to the CASA delegate. The automation will even create the required application forms and send them straight to your email address.

I need key personnel training – Aviassist’s Chief Remote Pilot training is designed for those individuals chosen to hold key roles within the organisation. These include the CEO, Chief Remote Pilot and Senior Remote Pilots.

I need someone to walk me through the Remote Operator Certificate process – Aviassist’s Remote operator Certificate package includes everything you need to succeed. Operations Manuals, Chief Remote Pilot training and the CASA application fee.

Who can apply for a Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC)?

An individual, incorporated company or body corporate can hold a Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC). The holder must nominate a Chief Remote Pilot who is responsible for ensuring operations under the Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC) are safe and legal. The Chief Remote Pilot must hold a Remote Pilot Licence as a minimum requirement.

Does the Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC) need to be renewed?

Initially, after one year there is a renewal process with a small fee and if operations have been conducted in accordance with your operational documentation your Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC) will be reissued for another three years.

Who can become Chief Remote Pilot?

Any responsible person holding a Remote Pilot Licence for the aircraft types to be operated by the company.

What aircraft can be operated under a Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC)?

Aircraft are categorised into Multirotor, Fixed Wing, Helicopter and Powered Lift. The Chief Remote Pilot will need to be licensed to fly each aircraft category and aircraft weight class.

Can flights be conducted under another company’s Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC)?

Yes, this is completely legal provided the company holding the Remote Operator’s Certificate can manage the activity, and all conditions of the Operations Manual are followed.