CASA today issued a reminder to pilots about the need to stay well clear of bushfires as the summer season approaches.
The reminder is aimed at pilots, drone flyers, aircraft owners and air operators, asking them to think about bushfire risks throughout the fire season, and to take note of the requirement to remain 5 nm away from fire zones and at least 3000 feet above ground level.
Firefighting aircraft operate at high speed and low altitude, involving abrupt changes in directions and height above terrain.
Aircraft wandering into fire zones can cause firefighting aircraft like helicopters and fixed-wing water bombers to be grounded, hindering efforts to control bushfires.
CASA CEO and Director of Aviation Safety Pip Spence said that breaking the rules could present a number of safety risks.
"By steering clear of any areas with bushfires, we can all do our part to keep the skies clear of any aircraft and let firefighting aircraft have full access where they need to," she said.
"Just remember, if you fly, they can’t; so think twice this fire season so that firefighting aircraft can do their part to keep local communities safe from bushfires.
"This also includes keeping your drone on the ground. Drones are small and hard to see, and pose a risk to aircraft and helicopters.
"In an emergency, you should follow the advice of your local fire authority."
On average, firefighting aircraft fly 30,000 hours in Australia every year on firefighting efforts.
The Bureau of Meterology is predicting an unusually hot Summer for Australia this year, with temperatures expected to average up to 1.5oC more than the baseline average, with heatwaves that create ideal conditions for bushfires.