Understanding Medium Category Flight Tests and Operator Requirements
Operating Medium Category RPAS Requires Additional Approval
Operating RPAS in the medium weight category (above 25 kg MTOW) introduces a higher level of regulatory oversight.
These operations require:
- Specific approvals under your ReOC
- Demonstrated pilot competency
- Structured operational systems
A key requirement is the completion of:
Medium Category Flight Tests
What Is Medium Weight Class Training?
Medium weight class training refers to the process of:
- Training pilots to operate RPAS above 25 kg
- Assessing competency through a formal flight test
- Demonstrating safe and controlled operation of higher-risk systems
This is not a standard extension of a RePL.
It is a:
Type-specific and approval-linked competency requirement
Regulatory Context
Under the Civil Aviation Safety Authority framework:
- Medium category operations are treated as higher risk
- Operators must demonstrate appropriate capability
- Pilots must complete a Medium Category Flight Test
This requirement sits alongside:
- ReOC approval for the specific aircraft or category
- Operational procedures and risk controls
When Is Medium Category Training Required?
You will require medium category training when:
- Operating RPAS with an MTOW above 25 kg
- Adding a medium category aircraft to your ReOC
- Expanding operations into higher-capacity platforms
This typically applies to:
- Agricultural spraying operations
- Heavy-lift or payload operations
- Enterprise-level RPAS capability
What the Training Covers
Medium category training and flight testing typically includes:
- Aircraft systems and limitations
- Operational procedures
- Emergency procedures
- Risk management considerations
- Practical flight competency
The focus is on:
Safe, controlled, and repeatable operation of higher-mass aircraft
Flight Test Requirement
The Medium Category Flight Test is:
- Conducted by an approved provider
- Used to assess pilot competency
- Required before conducting medium category operations
Successful completion provides:
- Evidence of competency
- A basis for inclusion in your ReOC operations
Approved Training Providers
Training and flight testing must be conducted through organisations that are:
- Authorised under their ReOC
- Approved to conduct Medium Category Flight Tests
Important
The list of providers is subject to change.
The list referenced on the original Uncrewed Approvals page was:
Current as at 22 March 2026
For the most up-to-date list, refer to the official CASA ReOC holder register:
CASA ReOC Holder Listing
Search using the keyword:
“Medium Category Flight Tests”
How This Fits Into Your ReOC
Medium category capability requires alignment across:
- ReOC approvals (aircraft and operations)
- Pilot competency (flight test completed)
- Operational documentation
- Risk and safety systems
This is not a standalone requirement — it forms part of a:
Structured operational approval framework
Common Mistakes
We frequently see operators:
- Assuming a standard RePL is sufficient
- Not completing required flight testing
- Attempting to operate medium category aircraft without approval
- Failing to align training with ReOC scope
Operational Considerations
Medium category operations introduce:
- Increased kinetic energy and risk
- More complex operating environments
- Greater regulatory scrutiny
This requires:
- Stronger procedures
- Enhanced risk controls
- Higher levels of operational discipline
How Uncrewed Approvals Can Help
We support operators to:
- Determine medium category requirements
- Align training with ReOC approvals
- Integrate medium category operations into existing systems
- Develop documentation and procedures
- Plan approval pathways for higher-capability operations
We help you:
Expand into higher-capability operations safely and compliantly
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need additional training for aircraft over 25 kg?
Yes — medium category operations require a formal flight test.
Can any training provider conduct the flight test?
No — only approved providers listed under CASA ReOC holders with appropriate authorisation.
Is this included in a standard RePL course?
No — this is a separate, type-specific requirement.
Do I need to update my ReOC as well?
Yes — medium category operations must be reflected in your ReOC approvals.
Build Capability the Right Way
Medium category operations unlock significant capability — but require the correct structure.
