RAAus Weight Increase Confirmed

 

RAAus has confirmed to members that a weight increase to 760 kg is imminent, as Australian Flying reported last week.

In a press release today, RAAus highlighted the progress with CASA’s new General, Recreational & Sport Aviation Branch on the topic of increased weighted aircraft allowable onto the RAAus register.

The weight increase will require an amendment to the Civil Aviation Orders which will require CASA to seek industry comment on those changes proposed. 

RAAus and CASA have agreed to advance a staged approach to increased weight. Stage one will see aircraft weighing 760 kg enter the register, while stage two will see aircraft up to 1500 kg enter the register.

RAAus has agreed with CASA on the framework to allow this process to be implemented prior to the introduction of Part 149. The framework will see Part 149 ‘like’ outcomes in place, prior to the actual commencement of the regulation.

One of the key talking points around this topic has been the maintenance protocols to be implemented. RAAus and CASA have agreed that any aircraft used for hire or reward as part of a flight training operation will be maintained by a level 4 maintainer.

Owners of heavier aircraft will also have choice when registering an aircraft: they can continue with the VH system of registration or move their aircraft across to RAAus. Both systems have advantages and disadvantages and ultimately the decision will be with the aircraft owner.

For privately owned aircraft, RAAus and CASA are continuing to work on the final arrangements to be implemented.

Chairman of RAAus Mick Monck said: “We take our role as a major player in general aviation in Australia very seriously. In fact, CASA reports that RAAus flying makes up 7% of all general and commercial flying activity in Australia. We are committed to strengthening the sector at large and creating pathways and opportunities for every aspect of general aviation.

“We have seen sustainable safety improvements as a result of our commitment to safety and evidence indicates our safety record is on a par with other forms of aviation: in 2013 our rate of fatal accidents per 100,000 hours was 5. In 2014 this rate had reduced to 2.65. Today the rate runs at just over one fatality per 100,000 hours.

“Heavier aircraft on the RAAus register will create positive economic opportunities for flight schools, hiring companies and maintainers. We look forward to continuing to work with CASA as we finalise plans for our weight increase in the second half of this year.”