In an advice to pilots and operators entitled ‘How we are helping you – exemptions put in place’, Shane Carmody, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Aviation Safety has announced a number of changes in an attempt to assist general aviation during the Coronavirus uncertainty.

The following general exemptions have been implemented immediately for pilots and operators:

• Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) or Part 141/142 Certificate holders will have an automatic 6 month extension of their Certificates.
• Pilots and ATC personnel will have licences extended automatically by six months from expiration.
• A 3 month extension on proficiency checks with the option to apply for further extensions.
• Operators to receive relief from Part 61 proficiency checking and flight reviews until 30 June 2020.

There are also some exemptions in place to cover dangerous goods, drug and alcohol management procedures and emergency procedures for operators, as well as some other provisions being considered, according to CASA.

CASA advises that are expected to be further announcements for maintenance organisations and drones coming soon.

AOPA Australia CEO, Ben Morgan had written to Mr Carmody on 18th March on behalf of members seeking direct assistance and support for Australia’s general aviation industry, through the waiving of CASA charges for medical applications and other CASA charges.

The move sees CASA moving part of the way towards the AOPA Australia request, with charges still applying to the industry, despite unprecedented uncertainty in the economy, and hundreds of aviation businesses fighting for survival.

More updates to members as information comes in.

Click to view the complete CASA advice online: https://www.casa.gov.au/news-article/how-we-are-helping-you-exemptions-being-put-place