Drone Operator

For the purposes of this SOP, a Drone Operator is someone who has completed the Drone Operator Course. The Drone Operator is in Command of the aircraft must hold as a minimum an SLSA Radio Operator Certificate and Observer’s Award (or either the SRC or Bronze Medallion). The Drone Operator in Command of the aircraft is responsible for:

• Creation of Missions using the pre-authorised templates within Drone Logbook
• Completion of Pre and post flight checklists via Drone Logbook
• Conduction of flight in accordance with company procedures
• Conduct flight in accordance with the agreed procedures for each individual club, including beach set up and flight areas
• Follow the Standard Operating Conditions as defined by CASA’s legislation. It is the Operator’s responsibility to stay abreast of all CASA requirements. SLSQ will assist by providing yearly proficiencies to keep pilots up to date with any changes
• Ensure their CASA Drone Operators Accreditation is kept current with copy supplied to the Club Drone Captain for entry on Surfguard
• Adhere to any specific limitations imposed on various clubs – for example, operations in controlled airspace
• If Drone Operator is also inducted under the ReOC, permission must be sought before exercising any additional instruments or permissions associated with the ReOC while performing club duties
• Safe operation of the aircraft
• Drone Operator is not to hold multiple positions at one time while on patrol – for example, they are not to fly the drone while fulfilling another patrol position (e.g. IRB Driver)
• Acting in accordance with SLSQ procedures
• Brief any support staff regarding operations, such as an Observers
• The Drone Operator is in control of the RPA at all times. For clarity, any requests by Patrol Captains, Duty Officers etc. that may result in a reduction of safety or breach of CASA legislation are to be denied
• Ensure all UAV related incidents and near misses are reported to Surfcom
• Ensure thorough cleaning post flight is completed. All maintenance/issues logged in Drone Logbook with communication to the Club Drone Captain
• All electronic devices are placed on charge – batteries, controller, computer/tablet
• Ensure all statistics have been completed