Becoming a drone pilot might sound like an impossible task, but in reality, it’s not too difficult. Drone operation is a fast-growing profession because of the huge demand for pilots and technicians with drone knowledge. It’s no surprise that there are so many opportunities within this industry.
Drones are used for various purposes, from photography to agriculture, delivery services, and inspection tasks. As the technology behind drones continues to improve and grow, we can expect that demand for single pilots will only increase. So if you’re interested in a career as a drone pilot, here are five steps on how to become one.
What is a Drone Pilot?
A drone pilot is someone who operates a drone (a small, uncrewed aircraft) for a business or organization. Single pilots are responsible for everything from flying and maintaining drones to dealing with customers’ needs. Single pilots must understand the drone they’re operating, but they must also communicate with people and gather information about what the customer wants.
What Does a Drone Pilot Do?
Drones are a great tool for many tasks. With the advancement of technology and the growth of drone applications, the demand for single pilots will continue to rise. A single pilot is someone who operates a drone via remote control.
They are responsible for taking care of the equipment and operating it by specific procedures. Drones are also used for research, photography, and inspection purposes. In other words, a pilot must be able to operate any drone efficiently, safely, and effectively to complete a given task.
What are the Daily Responsibilities of a Drone Pilot Job?
Being a single pilot is not a simple job. It requires a high level of experience to operate drones safely and efficiently. Most jobs within the field require you to be in the air for many hours.
As a single pilot, you’ll need to be able to monitor your airspace and ensure that all regulations are being followed at all times. You’ll also need to be able to maintain your equipment and make sure that it’s in good working condition at all times.
How to Become a Drone Pilot
1. Obtain an FAA Tracking Number
The FAA requires that all remote pilots of model aircraft have an identification number known as a “remote pilot certificate” (RPC). This number is issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and is used to track the pilot throughout the US airspace. For example, if you own a drone that weighs more than 0.55 lbs., you will need to register for an FAA drone license.
2. Pass the FAA Exam
The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) requires all single pilots to take an exam called the FAA Part 107 single pilot certification. This exam is divided into two parts: knowledge and practical test. The knowledge test covers various topics, including aircraft aerodynamics, single piloting for commercial purposes, and how to fly safely. The practical test involves drone flying from takeoff to landing.
3. Obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate
There are two types of drone certificates: recreational and commercial. A recreational licensed drone pilot allows you to fly a drone for fun but does not allow you to fly commercially. Commercial pilots can fly drones for work purposes, such as inspecting crops or construction sites. Either way, you still need a remote pilot certificate to get your first job as a single pilot. You must pass both written and flight tests to obtain this certificate.
4. Register Your Drone, If You Have One
Registering your drone is the first thing you should do before operating it. The good news is that it’s not difficult. You can register your drone at the UAS Registry, a free Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) service. It doesn’t matter if you own or operate a drone – registering it will help you comply with FAA regulations and ensure that you have the proper paperwork to operate your drone by their rules.
5. Explore Career Opportunities
Many drone pilot career opportunities are available for single pilots and technicians. Regardless of your industry or field, there’s a drone job for you. So, before starting your career as a single pilot, you should first explore all the opportunities available to you. You can learn more about the drone industry by reading online articles, blogs, or videos on YouTube.
The Takeaway
Drones have become an increasingly common way for businesses to capture images from angles and perspectives that were previously impossible. The ability to capture stunning imagery from above is a strategic marketing asset for any business, especially if you want to stand out among other businesses in your industry.
Aerial innovations Southeast provides professional drone services that will give your company a whole new perspective on things with the potential to revitalize your brand and give it an edge over competitors.