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PilotSchool Knowledge Base

Limitations of the RPL

This section outlines the limitations imposed on holders of the Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) in Australia. Understanding these restrictions is crucial for ensuring safe and compliant flying under the regulations defined by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).

General Limitations

Aircraft Type

  • Eligible Aircraft: RPL holders are restricted to flying single-engine, piston-powered aircraft with a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 1,500 kg.

Operating Conditions

  • Daylight Operations: Flights must occur during daylight hours only, adhering to Visual Flight Rules (VFR).
  • Weather Conditions: RPL holders are prohibited from flying in poor weather conditions or at night, except under supervised training sessions.

Passenger and Flight Operation Restrictions

Passenger Capacity

  • Passenger Carrying:
    • RPL holders with a Recreational Aviation Australia (RA-Aus) pilot certificate or recreational medical certificate can carry one passenger.
    • A Class 1 or Class 2 medical certificate is required to carry more than one passenger or if flying with another qualified pilot.
  • RPL holders cannot carry passengers for hire or reward.

Geographic and Operational Restrictions

  • Without a navigation endorsement, RPL flights are restricted to within 25 nautical miles (NM) of:
    • The departure aerodrome
    • The flight training area
    • The route between these points

International Use

  • The RPL is not internationally recognized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). To fly overseas, approval from the relevant country’s aviation authority is necessary.

Additional Limitations

Multi-Crew Operations

  • RPL holders are not allowed to act as pilot-in-command in multi-crew operations, and hours flown do not count toward Pilot in Command Under Supervision (PICUS) hours.

Endorsement Requirements

Certain endorsements are required for specific operational privileges:

  • Flight Radio Endorsement: Needed for operating radios during flight.
  • Controlled Airspace Endorsement: Required for flying within controlled airspace.
  • Controlled Aerodrome Endorsement: Necessary for operations at controlled aerodromes.
  • Recreational Navigation Endorsement: Allows for solo cross-country flights, with a prerequisite of at least 5 hours of solo cross-country flight time.

Regulatory References

The limitations and requirements for an RPL are detailed in CASR Part 61, including:

  • Division 61.E.1: General limitations on pilot licence privileges.
  • Subpart G 61.460 to 61.500: Specific regulations for recreational pilot licences.
  • Division 61.L.5: Pilot type ratings and flight reviews.

Age Requirement

  • Applicants must be a minimum of 16 years old to obtain an RPL.

Understanding these limitations ensures that RPL holders operate within the legal and safety parameters established by CASA. For further information, refer to the CASA RPL webpage.

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