CAA RPAS Night Rating Course

Extend your privileges and gain authorisation to fly safely at night under New Zealand’s Civil Aviation Rules.
The RPAS Night Rating Course equips certified drone pilots with the skills and knowledge to conduct safe, compliant, and professional night operations under CAA Part 102.

Delivered by NZ Drones Academy, a CAA-approved Part 141 Training Organisation (TR103670NZ), this course covers visual limitations, illumination requirements, mission planning, and risk assessment for after-dark flights.

What You’ll Learn:

CAA night flight requirements & authorisation process

Visual perception, lighting standards, and aircraft recognition

Pre-flight risk assessment and mission planning at night

Use of navigation and anti-collision lighting

Human factors, IMSAFE checklist, and crew coordination

Emergency procedures and CAA reporting requirements

On completion, pilots receive a CAA-recognised Night Rating Certificate, enabling flight operations during official night hours as part of a Part 102 organisation or under approved conditions.

Learners must hold a valid CAA Part 101 or Part 102 Pilot Certificate.
Participants must demonstrate competent VLOS (daylight) flight and have access to a UAV fitted with navigation and anti-collision lighting.
Minimum age 16 years and good command of English recommended.

NZ Drones Academy is a CAA-certified Part 141 Training Organisation (TR103670NZ) providing professional drone training across New Zealand. Our courses help students gain recognised UAV pilot certifications under Part 101 and Part 102, combining online learning with practical flight assessments.

With training developed by experienced commercial operators, NZ Drones Academy focuses on safety, compliance, and hands-on skills that prepare graduates for real-world careers in aerial surveying, agriculture, film, inspection, and emergency response.