Schiebel’s CAMCOPTER S-100 to Become First Large VTOL UAS to Operate in Australian Civil Airspace

Wedgetail Aerospace, in collaboration with Schiebel Pacific, has obtained approval from the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) to operate the Schiebel CAMCOPTER S-100 Unmanned Air System (UAS) in civil airspace.

This marks the first time that a large Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) UAS exceeding 150 kg has received civil approval in Australia.

The approval follows a series of flight demonstrations conducted in Western Australia, showcasing the capabilities of the S-100. The endorsement now permits the S-100 to operate in Australian civil airspace, with potential applications being explored in areas such as fire and disaster monitoring, cargo delivery, as well as inspections and surveillance.

Wedgetail Aerospace, having achieved CASA approval, is positioned as a training organization and plans to offer an S-100 license for civil operations. The company emphasizes its collaboration with Schiebel Pacific and Australian authorities in completing the experimental approval process.

It's worth noting that the S-100 has been operating under a Defence Aviation Safety Agency (DASA) UAS permit since 2017, obtained by the Royal Australian Navy for their S-100 operations.