Use of Independent vs In-House Airworthiness Inspectors

In plain language

You generally need an independent, third-party inspector to sign off on your drone's airworthiness. If you want to use an internal staff member for this, you must get approval from the CAA first.

Requirement as structured

CAA NZ states that most operators must use an independent inspector to verify UAS airworthiness, and any operator wishing to use an in-house inspector must obtain prior acceptance from the CAA.

Original regulatory text

Most operators need to use an independent inspector to inspect the airworthiness of the UAS. In cases involving large organisations who have suitably skilled staff in-house or who are doing unique work, it may be appropriate for them to use an in-house inspector. Operators should check first with CAA whether in-house inspections will be acceptable.