Remotely Piloted Aircraft operating over residential areas

AR201600001

Concern summary

The concern related to a Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) being operated over a residential area.

Reporter's deidentified concern

The reporter advised that [operator] are operating an RPA over residential houses and the Mitchell Freeway.

Regulator's response

CASA will conduct a full investigation into this matter and take appropriate action as required.

Named party's response

We have never had problems with people being concerned about our RPA before, so it is a bit disconcerting.

I would like to advise that until this matter is resolved, we have grounded our RPA, just to be on the safe side.

We are confident we operated with safety in mind at all times and within the bounds of what we are allowed to do. While we appreciate the reporters concern, it must be noted that non-compliance with regulations does not imply unsafe. It can only imply that there has been an instance of non-compliance. That said, we take safety very seriously and while we do not feel we have been non-compliant, we appreciate the opportunity to ensure the appropriate checks and balances are in place.

REPCON details

Date reported 18/01/2016
Published date 18/01/2016
Affected operation/industry Aviation: Other
Concern subject type Aviation: Other
Transport mode Aviation