New Zealand has launched an update programme for its national civil aviation rules, comprising 23 projects. These include measures to boost the use of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS).
One such project, which is already in ‘discovery phase’ will investigate the most effective ways to enable agricultural drone use that avoid unnecessary compliance costs. The project will recommend a regulatory approach, which may not require a rule change. This proposal will be considered for progression in the first six-month programme review.
The next project, scheduled to begin in Q3 2026, will review the latest International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards and recommendations regarding UAS. These include airworthiness
standards and communication between pilots and UAS. The ICAO standards and recommendations are expected to be incorporated into New Zealand’s aviation rules where appropriate to enable the further safe integration of drones into the national aviation system.
Also scheduled for Q3 2026 is a review to improve training, licensing and progression – particularly for commercial, private and specialist operations – to align with ICAO and other countries. Among other measures, the project aims to clarify rules for remote and UAS operators. It will also consider licensing and training needs for emerging technologies such as electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Noting that rules for operating UAS at aerodromes may be excessive for small scale
operations, the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand also announced a Q3 2027 project to review Part 102 to ensure suitable oversight. This project will link to Ministry of Transport work on airspace integration.
Additional efforts include a Q2 2027 review of aircraft regulation and product certification. This project will address multiple specific issues including UAS and new types of VTOL aircraft. A further project reviewing rocket regulation will also be carried out in Q2 2027.
A package of modernised civil aviation rules for UAS came into effect on December 22, 2025. These enable approved research organisations to rapidly develop and test emerging aviation technologies within pre-defined areas. The new rules are designed to remove burden by no longer requiring regulatory approval every time an iteration is made. They also provide clarity on what UAS operators can do under Part 101 and what requires certification under Part 102.
For more information
Civil aviation rules update programme summary at the government of New Zealand
Image: Drone shot of Auckland New Zealand – Shutterstock