This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to effectively maintain aircraft radio communications when operating remote pilot aircraft systems beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) in compliance with relevant regulatory requirements of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and national operating standards.

It includes operating radio equipment in Class G and controlled airspace (CTA) air spaces, managing radio equipment malfunctions and operating transponders beyond visual line of sight.

This unit addresses aviation technical skill requirements (physical, mental and task-management abilities) related to aircraft radio operator duties of flight crew and contributes to safe and effective performance in complex aviation operational environments.

Operations are conducted as part of commercial and military aircraft activities across a variety of operational contexts within the Australian aviation industry.

Work is performed independently or under limited supervision within a single-pilot or multi-crew environment.

Licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements are applicable to this unit.

ELEMENTS

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Operate radio equipment

1.1

Serviceability of radio equipment is confirmed

1.2

Transmission and receipt of radio communications is conducted using appropriate procedures and satellite link

1.3

A listening watch is maintained, and applicable transmissions responded to appropriately

1.4

Appropriate emergency and urgency transmissions are conducted

1.5

Appropriate radio communication protocols are used in CTA and Class G airspace

1.6

Data link equipment is operated using 3G, 4G and 5G

2

Manage radio equipment malfunctions

2.1

Radio failure procedures are performed as required

2.2

Fault-finding procedures and corrective actions not involving special tools or instruments are employed

2.3

Major system faults are reported in accordance with workplace procedures

2.4

Appropriate communications records are completed and processed in accordance with workplace procedures and aviation regulatory requirements

2.5

Remote piloted aircraft is configured to maintain safe operating conditions within controlled and uncontrolled airspace requirements during emergency procedures

3

Operate transponder

3.1

Transponder is operated and monitored in accordance with the aeronautical information publication (AIP) during normal operations

3.2

Transponder is operated and monitored in accordance with the AIP during abnormal and emergency operations

Foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.

Range is restricted to essential operating conditions and any other variables essential to the work environment.

Not applicable.

E – Communication and Calculation