PILOT ACCREDITATION SURVEY

Recognising Authorities

Please fill out the accreditation survey

UAVNZ, in partnership with ASPEQ, is exploring the development of a voluntary UAV pilot accreditation programme to support safe, professional UAV operations across New Zealand.

This programme would verify pilot experience, training, and a signed professional code of conduct. It may assist approval authorities—such as local councils, DOC, and NZTA—by offering a recognised credential that can inform UAV access decisions on public land or controlled airspace.

We would appreciate your feedback to understand whether this type of programme could help streamline your approval processes and improve confidence in pilot competency.

We are gathering feedback from operators and training providers to understand how such a programme might add value or integrate into your operations and training pathways.

UAVNZ, in partnership with ASPEQ, is exploring the development of a voluntary UAV pilot accreditation programme to support safe, professional UAV operations across New Zealand. This programme would verify pilot experience, training, and a signed professional code of conduct. It may assist approval authorities—such as local councils, DOC, and NZTA—by offering a recognised credential that can inform UAV access decisions on public land or controlled airspace. We would appreciate your feedback to understand whether this type of programme could help streamline your approval processes and improve confidence in pilot competency. We are gathering feedback from operators and training providers to understand how such a programme might add value or integrate into your operations and training pathways.

Name
What type of UAV-related activity does your organisation most often assess or approve?
How frequently do you receive applications for UAV operations?
What types of organisations or individuals typically apply to fly UAVs in your jurisdiction?
Do you currently require or review any documentation when approving UAV operations? (
How confident are you in assessing pilot competency under the current system?
Have you ever declined or delayed approval of a UAV application due to concerns about pilot capability or risk?
What concerns or challenges do you face when reviewing UAV applications? 
How do you currently mitigate risk in approving UAV flights? 
Do you believe a formal pilot accreditation could help improve risk assessment or simplify approvals?
Would you find it useful to have a searchable register of accredited UAV pilots when reviewing applications?
What potential benefits could a pilot accreditation offer your organisation? 
What concerns might you have about recognising a voluntary accreditation scheme? 
Would your organisation consider formally or informally recognising such an accreditation in your approval processes?
What would increase your confidence in such a scheme? 
If recognised, how might your organisation use the accreditation scheme? (
Would your organisation be open to participating in a pilot phase of this programme?
What support would you need to recognise or implement such a scheme? 
Should this programme be optional, recommended, or mandatory for pilots seeking public land approvals?
How important is CAA endorsement or guidance for your organisation to consider the programme?
Would you like to stay informed or be consulted further as the programme develops?