RPA (Remotely Piloted Aircraft) is the official term used by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to describe aircraft that are piloted from a remote location rather than from an onboard cockpit. While the general public commonly uses the term “drone,” RPA is the preferred regulatory and industry term in Australia.
Definition #
An RPA is any aircraft that does not carry a human operator onboard and is controlled remotely by a licensed or approved operator using a Ground Control Station (GCS) or handheld controller. The term is deliberately broad and includes multi-rotor platforms (such as quadcopters and hexacopters), fixed-wing aircraft, single-rotor helicopters, and hybrid designs.
An RPA is always part of a larger system called an RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft System), which includes the aircraft itself, the ground control equipment, the communications link, and any associated support elements.
Why “RPA” Instead of “Drone”? #
CASA and ICAO prefer the term RPA because it emphasises the human element — the aircraft is piloted, just from a remote location. The word “drone” originated in military terminology and carries connotations of fully autonomous or weaponised aircraft. In a regulatory context, “RPA” more accurately reflects the active, responsible role of the operator and aligns with international civil aviation standards set out in ICAO Circular 328.
In Australian legislation, the terms RPA and RPAS appear throughout the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations (CASR) Part 101 and related instruments.
Classification of RPAs in Australia #
CASA classifies RPAs based on their Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW), which determines which operational category and rules apply:
- Under 250g — Lightest class, minimal restrictions for recreational use, but rules still apply in controlled airspace and near aerodromes.
- 250g to 2kg — Standard recreational rules apply. For commercial operations, this class can fall under the Excluded Category if specific standard conditions are met.
- 2kg to 25kg — Requires a ReOC for commercial operations and the pilot must hold a RePL. Standard operating conditions apply unless specific approvals are granted.
- 25kg and above — Requires full CASA certification, including a RPAS operator certificate and may require additional airworthiness documentation.
RPA vs. UAV vs. UAS #
These terms are often used interchangeably but carry distinct meanings:
- RPA — Remotely Piloted Aircraft. CASA and ICAO preferred term. Emphasises active human control.
- UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) — Older term, still widely used globally, but implies the vehicle can operate autonomously without a pilot. Less preferred in the Australian regulatory context.
- UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) — The US FAA equivalent of RPAS. Encompasses the complete system including aircraft, controller, and data links.
In Australian regulatory documents, RPA and RPAS are the authoritative terms.
Practical Implications for Operators #
Understanding the correct terminology is important for compliance. CASA’s regulations, forms, and approvals all reference RPA and RPAS. Using precise language when communicating with CASA — in applications for a ReOC, a RePL, or operational approvals — ensures clarity and avoids unnecessary processing delays.
For recreational operators, CASA’s “drone” information pages are a user-friendly entry point. For commercial and professional operators, the CASR Part 101 framework and CASA’s RPAS guidance materials are the primary references.
Always verify current regulatory definitions and requirements directly with CASA at casa.gov.au. Definitions and classifications can be updated by legislative instrument.