CASA Seeks Feedback on Draft Guidance for Drone-Drone Deconfliction, Open Until 17 November 2026
Why It MattersPrinciples-based deconfliction guidance ahead of mature traffic management services signals regulators are setting expectations for drone operators and service suppliers before binding rules arrive.
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) is seeking feedback on draft guidance to help drone operators identify and manage potential conflicts with other drones. Known as drone-drone deconfliction, the process covers situations where drones, also called remotely piloted aircraft (RPA), may come too close to each other.
The guidance sets out recommended practices for operators: sharing accurate information about planned operations using available drone traffic management services, coordinating with other operators to resolve potential conflicts, monitoring operations against planned flight areas, and considering appropriate equipment to help identify other aircraft. It also outlines expectations for UAS service suppliers as Australia's drone traffic management services develop.
The guidance supports an action in the Australian Government's Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Traffic Management Action Plan, released in December 2024. It is principles-based and introduces no new regulatory requirements, and CASA expects it to evolve as UTM services and capabilities develop.
CASA wants to know whether the draft is clear and easy to understand, provides enough practical information for drone operators, clearly explains expectations for UAS service suppliers, and adequately addresses immediate safety concerns. Feedback can be submitted through the Consultation Hub by 17 November 2026 and will be used to improve the guidance before it is finalised.
