Surprisingly Useful AI Article Enhancements
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has issued more than 40,000 remote pilot licences (RePLs), with numbers more than doubling since the start of the decade.
In mid-2020, there were about 16,500 RePLs, following rapid growth from fewer than 3,300 licences four years earlier. Remote pilots have now overtaken CASA-licensed fixed-wing aircraft, helicopter and other pilots to become the country’s largest pilot group.
Growth In Registrations
CASA reported an 18 per cent year-on-year increase in drone registrations between 2023-24 and 2024-25.
Australia was one of the first jurisdictions to introduce rules for commercial drone operations. CASA Chief Executive and Director of Aviation Safety, Pip Spence, said the milestone reflects the sector’s innovation and growth.
“The growth in licensed remote pilots shows the industry is healthy and uncovering new and innovative uses for drones,” Spence said.
“From helping archaeologists unlock the secrets of the past, to enhancing safety in underground mines, detecting sharks, delivering medicine and remotely inspecting crops for pests and soil degradation, today’s drones are going where no RPA has gone before.
“Drones are now a key part of the toolkit for police and emergency services as they respond to natural disasters, including Cyclone Alfred and other recent events.
“As we approach the challenge of integrating these operations into Australia’s airspace and regulatory framework, our goal is to keep up with the sector’s growth without compromising safety.”
Strategic Planning
CASA is developing policies for remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) and advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft. Its updated RPAS and AAM Strategic Regulatory Roadmap outlines plans for regulating the sector over the next 10 to 15 years.
More information on becoming a licensed drone pilot is available on CASA’s website.
Last Updated on August 13, 2025 by Nick Ross
