14 April 2025
Australian Air Force Cadets can now gain Civil Aviation Safety Authority accredited training with the Remotely Piloted Aircraft Training School (RPATS) opened by Air Commander Australia, Air Vice-Marshal Glen Braz, at the 2025 Australian International Airshow.
The RPATS will enable cadets from around the country to experience a fully in-house training program, from assembling and flying small Remotely Piloted Aircraft, to flight programming, advanced flying, and obtaining their CASA Remote Pilot Licence.
Chair of the CASA Board and former Air Training Corps cadet, Air Chief Marshal (retd) Mark Binskin, also presented the CASA Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operator's Certificate (ReOC) for Training and Operations to the Commanding Officer of the RPATS, Squadron Leader (AAFC) Matthew Fletcher.
“After multiple successful trial training activities, building towards the award of the ReOC, we understand what works, and are ready to roll out this program nationwide to every AAFC Wing with a scalable, flexible and distributed model,” Squadron Leader (AAFC) Fletcher said.
“This is a new era in RPA and aviation technology for the AAFC, and we are in a great position to deliver contemporary training that is directly applicable.”
The RPATS will be run by qualified AAFC volunteer staff, similar to the Elementary Flying Training and Glider Training Schools.
Director General Cadets Air Force, Air Commodore Craig Heap, said the new program was a significant and historical moment in the AAFC organisation’s history.
“This new school will provide opportunities for our ADF cadets to acquire contemporary aviation skills that will benefit the cadets now, and Australia in the future,” Air Commodore Heap said.
“Air Force is committed to supporting our cadet program, and this new school is part of the ongoing modernisation of the AAFC as we continue to inspire and develop Australia’s future leaders.”
Beginning in April 2025, training courses will run progressively throughout Australia as the school’s capability is expanded, with the program also offering opportunities to Army and Navy cadets in the future.
