MAAA Secures Blanket Area Approval to Streamline Flying Site Approvals

The Model Aeronautical Association of Australia (MAAA) has successfully negotiated a new General Instrument approval with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), eliminating the need for individual Area Approvals (AAs) for most flying sites operating above 400 ft AGL. This landmark change significantly reduces administrative burdens, improves consistency, and cuts costs for clubs and the MAAA.

Background

Since 2017, each club seeking operations above 400 ft AGL required an individual AA, leading to substantial administrative strain and financial costs. The approval process was inconsistent and often negatively impacted club operations and member enjoyment.

How the Change Happened

A high-level meeting in mid-2024 between MAAA and CASA initiated discussions to streamline the approval process. Intensive collaboration followed, culminating in a new General Instrument that now allows MAAA to approve flying sites under standardized conditions.

What is the Blanket Approval?

The new General Instrument is a single approval that covers multiple club sites under predefined conditions. Clubs must comply with updated Manual of Procedures (MOPs), including:

• MOP001 – Accident/Incident Reporting and Actions
• MOP004 – Model Aircraft Operations Above 400 ft AGL
• MOP019 – Display Procedure
• MOP067 – Club Field Location Assessment

Benefits of the New System
For MAAA and Clubs:

• Faster approvals and streamlined processes
• Consistent operating conditions across clubs
• 3-year approval validity (until Feb 2029)
• Significant cost savings (reducing individual AA applications by 80-90%)

For CASA:

• Frees up resources to manage the growing demand from commercial drone operators
• Strengthens collaboration between CASA and MAAA
• Reduces bureaucratic overhead

How Will It Work?

• Clubs submit an assessment questionnaire and supporting documents to MAAA.
• The Federal Secretary reviews and recommends approval.
• Approved club sites are added to a register, updated quarterly with CASA.
• Annual compliance affirmation is required from Club Presidents and Secretaries.

Operational Considerations

• The approval applies only to Class G airspace and uncontrolled aerodromes.
• Public displays can be approved under the General Instrument (excluding full-scale airshows).
• Operations in restricted airspace must comply with relevant regulator conditions.
• Giant model aircraft (25kg+ dry takeoff weight) must adhere to additional safety checks and fail-safe procedures.

Next Steps for Clubs

Existing AA holders can transition to the new system before their approvals expire or wait until renewal. Clubs near major airports or military bases will still require individual AAs, managed by MAAA.

This milestone ensures MAAA members can continue to enjoy their passion with reduced administrative hurdles and a clear, consistent regulatory framework. For further details, clubs are encouraged to review the updated MOPs and consult with MAAA representatives as needed.

Please reach out to your club president if you have any questions.

Yours in aeromodelling
Mark Penno
ANSW President.