Trend forecasts withdrawn, TAF3 introduced
The Bureau of Meteorology stopped issuing Trend Type Forecasts (TTF) and introduced TAF3.
Why it matters The aerodrome forecast products you plan with, and get examined on, are different.
RETURNING PILOTS
What's changed since you last flew.
Pick when you last flew as pilot in command. You get every change in our register since then, what it means for you, and the source to read for yourself.
Where you fly
12 changes for Australian private pilots since January 2019.
- 5 Nov 2020
- Dec 2021
Exam workbook updated
The RPL, PPL and CPL (Aeroplane) Workbook v3.0a added crosswind limits to take-off and landing charts, the new fuel policy, and an AVGAS specific gravity of 0.72 kg/L for all loading systems.
Why it matters The data sheets used in the theory exams changed.
- 2 Dec 2021
Part 91 and the new flight operations rules start
CASR Part 91 (general operating and flight rules) commenced with Parts 119, 121, 133, 135 and 138. Most Civil Aviation Orders were repealed and many CARs went with them. Charter and RPT became “air transport”.
Why it matters Rule references in older textbooks and notes are now wrong. Exams use CASR Part 91 and the Part 91 Manual of Standards.
- 2 Dec 2021
New words for fuel reserves
“Final reserve” and “contingency” replaced fixed and variable reserve. CASA's AC 91-15 says the changes to fuel management were minor and all about definitions.
Why it matters Fuel planning questions use the new words and the Part 91 MOS table.
- 2 Dec 2021
VMC criteria moved to the Part 91 MOS
VMC criteria now sit in Table 2.07 (3) of the Part 91 Manual of Standards. In Class G at or below the higher of 3,000 ft AMSL or 1,000 ft AGL: 5,000 m visibility, clear of cloud, and in sight of ground or water. In Class D: 5,000 m, 600 m horizontal, 1,000 ft above and 500 ft below cloud.
Why it matters Older notes point to the AIP or the old CARs. Learn the numbers from the current table, not from memory.
- 2 Dec 2021
Radio rules rewritten
CASR 91.625 says you must be qualified to transmit on published aeronautical frequencies, including those at certified and registered aerodromes. Under 91.630, if your aircraft is fitted with or carries a radio, you must make the broadcasts and reports the Part 91 MOS prescribes in Chapter 21. You are in the vicinity of a non-controlled aerodrome when in uncontrolled airspace, within 10 NM, and at a height that could conflict with its traffic (91.360).
Why it matters The calls you must make, and when, now come from the Part 91 MOS.
Rules on when an aircraft must be fitted with a radio are in section 26.18 of the Part 91 MOS.
- 15 Jun 2023
Restricted areas offshore became danger areas
Airspace Regulations were amended so restricted areas in international airspace became danger areas.
Why it matters Affects how you read charts and plan around these areas.
- Early 2024
Class 5 medical self-declaration
A self-declared Class 5 medical became an option for many private operations, alongside Class 2 and Basic Class 2.
Why it matters There may be a cheaper, simpler medical path back into the air. Check the current limits with CASA.
Exact start month not confirmed from a CASA source.
- Aug 2024
Altimeter setting wording updated
Below the transition altitude, use the current local QNH of a station along your route within 100 NM of the aircraft, or the current forecast area QNH (VFRG 8.1).
Why it matters Altimetry questions and pre-flight setting habits.
- Feb 2026
Radio number wording updated, MAYDAY wording aligned with the AIP
VFRG 8.3 added runways and altimeter settings to its table on transmitting numbers, combined its wind examples, and aligned the MAYDAY call wording with the AIP.
Why it matters Small differences in phraseology you will hear and be expected to use.
- 7 May 2026
Plain English guides allowed in exams
Candidates may take CASA's plain English guides (PEGs) into any CASA pilot exam. Questions are still based on the regulations and MOS, not the guides.
Why it matters Changes how you prepare your exam references.
- 9 Jul 2026
Sydney Basin airspace redesign
New Class C control zone at Western Sydney International, changed Sydney and Bankstown control zones, new Class D steps and control areas, changed VFR routes, new restricted and danger areas, and a transponder requirement in the new Class D control area.
Why it matters Any Sydney-basin chart, route or habit from before July 2026 is out of date.