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Are real estate drones set for return to the skies?

By Andrew Jennings
09 July 2014 | 5 minute read

Following one prominent agency being forced to ground its imported drones, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has offered a glimmer of hope that drones may soon be allowed for commercial use in some instances.

At the moment, only licensed operators on CASA’s remotely piloted aircraft list may operate the drones for commercial purposes. 

However, speaking to Real Estate Business, Peter Gibson of the CASA, confirmed that although agents without a licence remain outlawed from using the drones for commercial use, CASA is considering a change to the law. 

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He said this included looking at the possibility of remotely piloted aircraft weighing less than two kilos being allowed operate to a set of standard conditions for commercial purposes.

The proposal is looking at whether CASA approval is required if a business keeps to these conditions.

"It’s been out for public consultation, which closed last month, so we are now looking at the comments and we’ll determine whether we go ahead with that proposal or not over next few months,” said Mr Gibson.

He warned that one of the conditions likely to be included is that the drones could not be used in built-up areas, “which wouldn’t help a lot of agents”. 

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