Overview
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has made a new legislative instrument - CASA 40/26 - covering the operation of remotely piloted aircraft (drones) within 3 nautical miles of a controlled aerodrome using a CASA-verified app. The instrument is administered by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts under the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998.
Commencement
The instrument commenced on 25 September 2026.
What the Instrument Covers
CASA 40/26 addresses drone operations conducted within 3 nautical miles of a controlled aerodrome where a CASA-verified app is used. The full text of the instrument sets out what is required or permitted in that airspace. The complete instrument is available on the Federal Register of Legislation at https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2026L01288.
Key Actions
- Operators of drones within 3 nautical miles of a controlled aerodrome are required to read the full instrument at https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2026L01288 to understand what the rule requires.
- The instrument commenced 25 September 2026, meaning the rule is currently in force. Operators are required to check whether use of a CASA-verified app is required to legally fly in that airspace.
- CASA can be contacted directly, or the CASA website at www.casa.gov.au consulted, for guidance on verified apps and controlled aerodrome rules.
This is a plain-English summary for information only, not legal or compliance advice. Always check the official source or consult a qualified professional.