Drone skills landing in Aussie schools

SCHOOL students across Australia will be given the chance to enhance their skills as next-generation drone pilots through a safety campaign launched by aviation safety regulator CASA.

Aussie school children will be given the chance to hone their drone safety skills through a new campaign launched by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. PHOTO: Supplied.

CASA says children represent a growing proportion of Australians buying and flying drones for fun and recreation.

NOW READ: Hervey Bay among Australia’s best towns

The campaign resources are designed to help modern-day aviators develop a safe flying culture as they hone their skills.

CASA has partnered with youth education specialists to develop a range of materials promoting safety and aligned to the Australian curriculum.

WATCH: The sky’s the limit for RJ

CASA’s Acting Branch Manager of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Services Sharon Marshall-Keeffe said they’d designed tailored resources, in consultation with Education Services Australia, to build awareness, understanding and acceptance of drone safety rules and regulations among children aged 10 to 16, teachers, parents and carers.

“We’re asking children to test their drone safety knowledge through quizzes, school-based learning activities and teacher-led discussions,” she said.

“We’ve also developed a dedicated education resources section on the campaign website – knowyourdrone.gov.au/classroom – and we strongly recommend the use of CASA-verified safety apps to find out where it’s safe to fly.”

“It’s also important to raise awareness of the incoming operator accreditation and registration requirements affecting people over 16 and the need for those under 16 to be supervised by an accredited adult unless flying at a CASA approved flying site.”

Education Services Australia SEO Andrew Smith said they’re proud to be playing a role in providing school children with access to information about rules, regulations and flying zones.

ALSO READ: Direct Sydney to Hervey Bay flights take off

“It’s imperative that children understand the rules and regulations in place to keep themselves and others safe while enjoying the freedom that comes with flying drones,” he said.

“We hope that by arming our pilots of tomorrow with the information they need today, they will take to the skies with confidence, in a safe and responsible manner.”

PHOTOS: New e-scooter program takes flight in Hervey Bay

For more information about what you can and can’t do with a drone, visit the CASA campaign website: knowyourdrone.gov.au