On 30 September 2021, the Transport Safety Investigation Regulations 2003 was repealed and replaced by the new Transport Safety Investigation Regulations 2021. The main change with the new regulations is the introduction of updated requirements for operators of certain remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) to make incident reports to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB).
The changes to reporting requirements mean that the ATSB will be able to better assess safety issues and monitor trends in the operation of RPA. The emerging drone industry will benefit from investigation into systemic safety issues to help prevent future accidents and inform policy.
“The recognition of transport safety issues associated with the operation of RPAs, will be a welcome development, and provide greater certainty for commercial operators and enthusiasts alike.
- ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell
Under the revised requirements, RPA are split into type 1 and type 2 according to certification status and weight. Incidents subject to mandatory reporting now include:
- death or serious injury
- accidents
- loss of a separation standard with aircraft, and
- serious damage to property.
This article is not exhaustive of the changes, and RPA operators should familiarise themselves with the new reporting requirements available on the Australian Transport Safety Bureau website.
With thanks from the ATSB, below is a helpful infographic to assist in assessing your reporting requirements as an RPA operator.
Note: Infographic accurate at time of publication, RPA operators should refer to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau website for up-to-date regulations.