From 1 April 2026, the rules around working near airports have changed, as the Airports (Protection of Airspace) Regulations 1996 have now sunset, and have been replaced with a new airspace protection regime covering leased federal airports –Airports (Protection of Airspace) Regulations 2026.

The fundamentals haven’t changed, but the process around them has tightened up.

Same Rule, New Framework

Under the previous regulations, if your crane was going to push into protected airspace, it was classed as a controlled activity, and you needed approval before getting anywhere near the job.

That hasn’t changed.

What has changed is the framework those approvals sit under, and any applications lodged after 1 April 2026 are now assessed under the new regulations.

There’s now a stronger expectation that operators:

  • Engage with the airport or local authority early

  • Submit applications in writing at least 28 days ahead

  • Provide clear and accurate details on crane height, reach and location

Approvals may also come with conditions, things such as lighting, operating limits, or coordination requirements.

Why the change?

The old regulations had been in place for nearly three decades, and while they did the job, the broader aviation and construction environments have moved on. The updated regime is aimed at bringing more structure and consistency to how airspace around airports is managed, particularly as equipment gets larger and projects have become more complex.

If you’ve got a job anywhere near an airport, it’s worth doing a few checks early rather than late:

  • Is the site within protected airspace around a leased federal airport?

  • Will the crane penetrate prescribed airspace or obstacle limitation surfaces?

  • Which set of rules applies, based on when the application is lodged?

CICA Safety Bulletin #384 which is available on the ‘Safety Bulletin’ here has more information on helpful resources and airport contact details.

Getting answers and approvals upfront can save a lot of back-and-forth, and minimise delays, as working near airports requires more planning, earlier engagement, and tighter documentation than it might have in the past.

 As with most things in this industry, early preparation goes a long way toward keeping the job moving. CICA has engaged the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and requested more information to pass onto our members. 
Attend The CICA & CASA Webinar To Learn More

Disclaimer: The information displayed on this page is intended as a general guide only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, regulations and requirements may change over time. It is your responsibility to be aware of and comply with all relevant local, state, and federal laws applicable to your specific job or project. Always consult official regulatory bodies and seek professional advice when necessary to ensure compliance with the latest safety and legal requirements.

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