Getting Started

What is OpenSky?

OpenSky is a technology platform, developed by Wing, a subsidiary of Alphabet, that is designed to help drone operators safely access the sky. The OpenSky app is a Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA)-verified application derived from the OpenSky platform that provides Australian drone flyers with the information they need to comply with rules and plan flights more safely and effectively.

What countries is the OpenSky app available in?

The OpenSky app is currently available in the Australian Google Play and Apple app stores.  A web version of the OpenSky app is available to users outside of Australia at opensky.wing.com.

What does it mean to be approved by CASA?

The OpenSky app uses CASA-designated data sources to provide  information about locations where it is lawful for different types of drone flyers (Recreational, Commercial Excluded, ReOC) to fly. It is each drone flyer’s responsibility to navigate safely and to comply with applicable rules. For more information about CASA approved safety apps, visit casa.gov.au/droneapp.

Using the OpenSky app

What does each map pin represent?

The OpenSky app allows drone flyers to place a pin on any location in Australia in order to gather information about flight rules. The pin will change based on the flight information in a particular region. More details can be seen below.  

What do the different colors mean for the map?

The OpenSky app contains maps where specific regions are marked with colors. The colors are used to indicate additional details important to drone flyers.

Red - No fly

Areas that don’t pass the checklist based on aviation regulations or other conditions.  Tap on the region or place a pin in the red area for further details.

Orange - Fly under conditions

Areas that require drone flyers to take additional caution. Tap on the region or place a pin in the orange area for further details about the nature of these conditions.

Blue - Obstacles

Areas showing certain obstacles (e.g. electrical transmission lines).  

What are the different types of drone operators?

Australia types:

Recreational

Fly drones for fun, as a hobby or for sport.

Read more

Commercial Excluded

Commercial drone flyer for drones that weigh less than 2kg.

Read more

ReOC

Commercial drone flyer with an operator certificate issued by CASA.

Read more

Still not sure?  Learn more on the CASA website.

Does the OpenSky app show other drones are flying in my area?

The OpenSky app does not currently include information about other drones or manned aircraft.  It is each drone flyer’s responsibility to navigate safely and to comply with applicable laws.

Support

Contact OpenSky support

Please share your feedback by using the feedback button on the top right corner of the OpenSky app.

Report incorrect data

Please report inaccurate map data by using the feedback button on the top right corner of the OpenSky app.  

Browsers OpenSky supports

OpenSky supports the versions of the browsers listed below:

Desktop Web

Mobile Web

Apps

Learn more about flying drones in Australia

Learn more about flying drones in Australia from CASA’s official website.