Language proficiency assessment necessary for flight crew
From 5 March 2008, all applications for a new flight crew licence at PPL level or higher must include a language proficiency assessment. This is also a requirement for anyone wishing to fly overseas after that date.
Language proficiency requirements
Converting an overseas (including NZ) or ADF pilot licence
Detailed information is available for pilots wishing to fly in Australia based on an overseas or Defence forces licence. This includes New Zealanders wishing to take advantage of the TTMRA (Trans Tasman Mutual Recognition Act).
Overseas (including NZ) licence holders | ADF licence holders
Approach vertical guidance study
A key step is being taken in the development of new and safer instrument navigation systems for Australian aircraft.
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority has commissioned a special study to find the most suitable and cost effective technology to deliver improved navigation using the Global Navigation Satellite System.
The study will look at options for introducing Global Navigation Satellite System Approaches with Vertical Guidance.
More details about the approach vertical guidance study
Australian and United States Joint Statement on GPS
Australia and the United States have formally agreed to meet annually to work towards improvements for the civil use of the Global Positioning System and regional augmentations to GPS. Officials met in Canberra in late April to discuss a range of GPS related issues.
A formal statement issued after the meeting said that Australia and the US have a shared interest in space-based positioning, navigation and timing systems for civil, commercial and scientific uses.
Joint Australian and US delegation statement on GPS
Trial of Night Vision Goggles
CASA is developing standards for use of Night Vision Goggles (NVG) in civilian helicopter operators through a 12 month trial with selected operators. The results of the trial will be used by CASA to test and refine the NVG standards for likely eventual incorporation in the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations.
More details on the trial of night vision goggles
Instrument rating renewals using an overseas flight simulator training provider
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority has amended rules so that an instrument rating may be renewed by means of an instrument proficiency check on a recognised overseas flight simulator. For operators that conduct endorsement and/or refresher training at an overseas flight simulator training facility, CASA now permits this training to count towards the renewal of an instrument rating subject to certain safety conditions being met.