Controlled Airspace access for RAAus aircraft
Controlled airspace access – the first milestone is complete!
RAAus is proud to announce to members the completion of the first milestone of the planned four stage process to permit RAAus members to access controlled airspace!
This step recognised the issue related to RAAus members who were trained at RAAus Flight Training Schools (FTS) in Class D or C airspace under a CASA Instrument. Previously once this training was complete, they were no longer permitted to operate in that airspace.
Working collaboratively with CASA Sport, we are pleased to announce progressive changes to these Instruments which will permit RAAus pilots to privately hire a FTS aircraft and operate into and out of the specific airspace related to the RAAus FTS.
This change also provides flight schools at these airfields with an opportunity to earn additional revenue. We anticipate demand to hire FTS aircraft will increase, in turn increasing aircraft hiring revenue. RAAus has worked very hard on this project and is excited additional economic benefits will flow to our schools and associated Instructors and maintainers as a result.
There are a number of specific requirements, which are provided in July Sport Pilot and provided at this link as a Fact Sheet but in general terms include the RAAus pilot being trained and assessed at the nominated RAAus FTS, requiring the CFI to make a notation in the pilot’s logbook to confirm their competence in the airspace and only that specific airspace.
This change has been possible due to the diligence and thoroughness of the CFIs operating at the 13 RAAus FTS under CASA issued Instruments at locations across the country. Additionally, the open reporting culture and professional responses received from RAAus pilots and Instructors operating in the airspace who have reported incidents and undertaken retraining if required.
To summarise
This initial access is a major step for RAAus members, allowing access to flight operations closer to major metropolitan airports and cities, along with having RAAus members provide evidence to CASA and industry of the maturity and professionalism of RAAus members.
While this permits controlled airspace operations only in RAAus FTS aircraft, members can be assured RAAus continues to work with CASA Sport to further access to controlled airspace. Additionally, RAAus is working closely with the Department of Defence to further expand access to active military restricted airspace as part of our planned controlled airspace access. Finally RAAus is also committed to progressing the proposed increase in Maximum Take-Off Weight for member’s aircraft to an eventual 1500 kg.
Don’t forget however, that this extended privilege will not affect those RAAus members who chose to operate simple, lightweight aircraft away from controlled airspace. RAAus remains committed to ensuring these additional operations will not require anything extra of those members.
If you would like more specific information follow this link Class D Instrument of exemption – solo flight training using Recreational Aviation Australia aircraft – Plain English summary
This email was sent by Recreational Aviation Australia, Recreational Aviation Australia, 3/1 Pirie Street, Fyshwick, ACT 2904, Australia to bobandsallydoc@gmail.com
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