Aviation State Engagement Forum
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Open consultation
Submit feedback to
Nick
Jackson
Hover UAV on behalf of Rainmaker
Rainmaker Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) operations in the Mt Buller area.
The issue
-
BVLOS drone operations proposed to take place between Surface (SFC) – 19,999 Feet (ft) Above Mean Sea Level (AMSL) in the area outlined in the image below.
- Seeking input from local airspace users on deconfliction arrangements or safety requirements.
- Proposed operations will be ongoing and commence Mid-2026.
Purpose
Engage with local Victorian air operators for feedback regarding proposed BVLOS drone operations.
Proposal
Rainmaker is an American precipitation enhancement company that is engaging in RPAS research and development operations in Australia. Rainmaker is seeking to add a BVLOS area approval to their Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) operations to allow the testing of their RPA and adjacent technology from Mt. Buller. Rainmaker currently holds a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ReOC). Rainmaker conducts similar BVLOS activities in the USA.
Any BVLOS operations will be conducted in accordance with a CASA approval. Proposed deconfliction requirements include the use of Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), broadcasting on and monitoring of the relevant aviation radio frequencies, and, if required, the use of electronic conspicuity devices.
This information is provided as part of the Stakeholder Engagement Plan and to provide an opportunity for stakeholders to raise any safety concerns on the information provided. Specific stakeholder engagement will be conducted with operators that are identified to be more directly affected by this RPAS operation.