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Drone Mapping and Pilot Certification unit (KGG300)

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Unit year 2027

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Location: Hobart

This unit is offered in Semester 2.

The face to face flying practical is the assurance of learning task for this unit.

Elective places are available for those with the pre-requisite (KGG102).

This unit has an OPTIONAL levy of $500 + GST that covers the fees that are required to process the drone license paperwork. If you don’t require a license, you may opt not to pay the fee

Introduction

This unit is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills required to become a certified drone pilot. The unit consists of three components: CASA RePL theory, drone flight training, and using drones for geospatial mapping. You will learn about basic aviation, multi-rotor systems and functionality, mission preparation and planning, aerodynamics, navigation, meteorology, human factors, and maintenance. You will also learn how to fly a drone safely and proficiently, and how to use drones for geospatial mapping. The unit will have three assessments: CASA RePL theory and Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate (AROC) exam, drone flight test demonstrating safe and proficient drone flying skills, and drone flight planning for geospatial mapping with an RGB camera, camera settings for mapping, and production of a 3D point cloud and orthomosaic with photogrammetric software. Upon successful completion of this unit and payment of fee, you will be CASA-certified for RePL operations.

Summary

Unit name Drone Mapping and Pilot Certification
Unit code KGG300
Credit points 12.5
College/School Sciences and Engineering
School of Geography, Planning, and Spatial Sciences
Discipline Geography, Planning, and Spatial Sciences
Coordinator Doctor Darren Turner
Available as an elective? Yes
Delivered By University of Tasmania
Level Advanced

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Key Dates

Study Period Start date Census date WW date End date
Semester 2 4/7/2027 26/7/2027 29/8/2027 23/10/2027

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2027 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2027 will be available from the 1st October 2026. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

  • Explain basic aerodynamics, aircraft systems, air law, operational planning, and meteorology in the context of drone piloting.
  • Conduct drone flying activities in a professional manner.
  • Use radio communications procedures considering appropriate CASA regulations.
  • Plan a drone flight for geospatial mapping in a real-world scenario.
  • Produce a 3D point cloud and orthomosaic using photogrammetric software.

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Requisites

Prerequisites

KGG102

Teaching

Teaching Pattern

Per delivery:

  • 15 hours for delivery of prescribed CASA theory for license certification
  • 9 hour delivery of drone mapping theory
  • 5 x 3 hour practical sessions for use of mission planning and photogrammetric software
  • Minimum of 5 hours (up to max of 6 hours) of flight instruction and assessment as prescribed by CASA
AssessmentDrone Flight Test (20%)|CASA RePL Theory and Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate (AROC) Exam (40%)|Geospatial Mapping with a Drone (40%)
TimetableView the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required

CASA remote pilot licence (RePL) theory - supplied as part of the unit.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.