Become aDrone Airspace Regulator

Becoming a Drone Airspace Regulator means you’re at the forefront of a revolution in aviation. You’ll be shaping the future of drone technology and helping to make sure that flying robots can coexist safely with humans. Plus, who wouldn’t want a job where you get to play with cool gadgets and keep the skies safe at the same time?

• Ensure safe skies for drone flights.
• Shape the future of air traffic management.
• Protect public safety and privacy.
• Combine technology with public policy.

A Day in the Life of a Drone Airspace Regulator

Monitor Drone Activity
Start the day by reviewing live data feeds of drone traffic, ensuring compliance with airspace regulations.

Develop New Drone Regulations
Work on drafting new policies and guidelines to manage drone activities in both urban and rural areas.

Coordinate with Aviation Authorities
Liaise with national aviation bodies, like the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), to align on safety protocols and regulatory frameworks.

Investigate Airspace Violations
Analyse reports of airspace breaches or safety incidents involving drones, and implement corrective measures or penalties.

Review Drone Licensing Applications
Evaluate and approve licensing applications for commercial drone operators, ensuring they meet all regulatory standards.

Conduct Public Awareness Campaigns
Educate drone users and the general public about the importance of airspace regulations through community outreach and digital platforms.

• Aviation
  • Ensuring safety in drone operations alongside traditional aircraft.
• Tech Companies
  • Regulating drone flights for companies developing drone technology.
• Delivery Services
  • Managing drone deliveries in urban and rural areas.
• Film and Media
  • Overseeing drone use for filming and photography.
• Agriculture
  • Monitoring drone operations for crop spraying and monitoring.
• Emergency Services
  • Coordinating drone use in search and rescue missions.

As a Drone Airspace Regulator think about blending technical skills like:

• Analytical Thinking
• Attention to Detail
• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Decision-making
• Regulatory Knowledge

• Aviation Studies
  • Learn about airspace management and aviation regulations.
• Technology
  • Understand how drones work and the principles of flight.
• Law and Regulation
  • Study legal frameworks and regulatory compliance.
• Mathematics
  • Develop problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Geography
  • Understand airspace geography and mapping.
• Communication
  • Hone your communication skills for working with stakeholders.

Drone Airspace Regulators get to work with emerging technology and help shape the future of aviation. From managing drone swarms for events to coordinating aerial surveys for conservation projects, the possibilities are endless!

• Design a New Drone Highway Plan a dedicated corridor in the sky for commercial drones to deliver packages safely and efficiently.
• Host a Drone Safety Workshop Lead a safety workshop to teach new drone pilots about airspace safety and best practices.
• Create a Drone Traffic Control App Collaborate with software developers to create an app that helps drone pilots avoid restricted areas and stay compliant.
• Analyse Drone Incident Data Use data science to analyse patterns in drone incidents and develop strategies to prevent future occurrences.
• Simulate Airspace Scenarios Use virtual reality to simulate various airspace scenarios, testing how new regulations would impact current and future drone traffic.
• Work with Tech Innovators Collaborate with tech companies to develop new tools and technologies that enhance airspace safety.

While the field is still emerging, there is a lot of interest in drone technology. Have a look at some of these Aussies doing great things in the sector:

Dr. Catherine Ball

A drone advocate and expert in unmanned aerial systems, Dr. Ball works closely with regulatory bodies to shape drone policy in Australia.

Sarah Fitzgerald

A senior manager at the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), Sarah leads initiatives to develop safe drone regulations and promote compliance.

Melissa Bonney-James

A legal and regulatory specialist in aviation law, Melissa advises government agencies on integrating drones into the existing aviation framework.

Jennifer Thorp

An air traffic management consultant who focuses on the intersection of traditional aviation and new drone technologies, advising on regulatory strategies

As a Drone Airspace Regulator these are some personality traits that can set you up for success:

• Calm
• Analytical
• Detail-oriented
• Adaptable
• Communicative
• Decisive

Going from High School straight to University is one pathway you could explore. But what does that look like?

• Bachelor of Aviation Management
• Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering
• Bachelor of Law (Aviation Law Specialization)
• Bachelor of Science (Geography and Aviation)
• Bachelor of Technology (Drone Technology and Regulation)
• Bachelor of Business (Aviation Operations)

Now let’s get granular:

Bachelor of Aviation or Air Traffic Management

Begin with a degree in Aviation or Air Traffic Management to gain foundational knowledge in airspace management, flight operations, and safety regulations. The University of Western Australia (UWA) offers courses in aviation studies that provide insights into air traffic control and the regulatory environment.

Bachelor of Law (Aviation Law Specialisation)

For those interested in the legal side of drone regulation, a law degree with a focus on aviation or technology law provides essential skills for drafting policies and managing legal compliance.

Master’s in Aviation Management or Public Policy

A master’s degree in Aviation Management or Public Policy offers advanced training in creating and implementing regulations that govern airspace and drone usage. Murdoch University offers a Master’s in Public Policy with modules on aviation policy and regulatory affairs.

Graduate Certificate in Drone Regulation or Aviation Safety

For a shorter, more focused route, consider a Graduate Certificate in Drone Regulation or Aviation Safety from institutions like Curtin University. These courses cover the essentials of drone operation and airspace management.

Mixing and matching subjects is like adding different colours to your palette. For example, combining Aviation Management with Law can give you a deep understanding of the legal frameworks that govern airspace. Or, pairing Aerospace Engineering with Technology can equip you with the technical skills to design and regulate drone systems. The sky’s the limit when it comes to blending different fields of study!

During your studies, you’ll learn aviation regulations, airspace management, and drone technology. You’ll learn how to navigate complex legal frameworks, analyse flight data, and make decisions that keep drones flying safely. Alongside technical knowledge, you’ll also develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills – essential tools for ensuring smooth skies for all.

Aviation Authorities or Tech Firms

Gain practical experience through work experience with aviation authorities like CASA or tech firms developing drone technologies. This provides opportunities to work on current regulatory challenges.

Collaborate on University-Led Research Projects

Participate in research projects led by university departments, like those at Curtin University or Murdoch University. These projects often involve partnerships with regulatory bodies, providing practical experience in policy development.

• Join Aviation and Drone Communities
  • Connect with communities like Australian Association for Unmanned Systems (AAUS) or Women in Aviation Australia to stay informed about job opportunities, new technologies, and trends in airspace management.
• Attend Aviation and Drone Conferences
  • Participate in events such as the World of Drones and Robotics Congress to learn from industry leaders, showcase your work, and network with other professionals.
• Certifications in Air Traffic Control or Drone Operation
  • Obtain certifications through courses in Air Traffic Control or Drone Operation, available from TAFE WA or online platforms. These certifications provide hands-on training in managing drone airspace safely.
• Workshops on Aviation Policy and Drone Regulation
  • Attend workshops on aviation policy and drone regulation provided by organisations like Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). These sessions offer insights into the latest regulatory practices and technologies.
• Microlearning Platforms
  • Check out the many online courses on platforms like Udemy or Coursera. From aviation law to drone technology, there’s a wealth of resources to help you build your skills at your own pace.

• Western Australia
  • In Western Australia, keep an eye on opportunities with local companies like Drone Inspections WA. With the state’s vast landscapes and growing interest in drone technology, there’s plenty of scope for career growth in drone regulation.
• Australia
  • Across Australia, regulatory bodies like Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and industry players like drone manufacturers and operators offer exciting career prospects. Or national defence force careers with the ADF.  Whether it’s managing drone traffic in urban areas or overseeing safety standards for aerial surveys, there’s no shortage of opportunities to make your mark in the drone industry.