Welcome Fellow (and future) RPICs

Introduction

If you're interested in becoming a professional drone pilot, you've come to the right place. With the rise of the drone industry, the demand for skilled and certified drone pilots has increased dramatically. Whether you're looking to start a new career or add drone piloting to your existing skillset, this comprehensive resource guide will provide you with all the information you need to become a successful and professional drone pilot. From selecting the right drone and obtaining the necessary certifications to mastering flight skills and finding clients, this guide will cover it all. So, get ready to take off and soar to new heights as a professional drone pilot!

 

I: Purchasing a UAV/Drone

Drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), have become increasingly popular in recent years for a variety of purposes, from photography and videography to search and rescue operations. If you're considering buying your first drone, it can be overwhelming to navigate the numerous options and features available. However, by understanding your needs and budget, as well as the regulations and safety guidelines, you can choose the right drone for you. In this section, we will provide tips and advice to help you make an informed decision when purchasing your first drone.

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II: Preparing for the Part 107 Exam

Preparing for the Part 107 exam is an essential step for anyone who wants to become a commercial drone pilot in the United States. This certification is required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for all drone pilots who want to fly for business purposes. To become certified, you need to pass a knowledge test that covers a wide range of topics, including regulations, airspace, weather, and operations. The test can be challenging, but with the right preparation, you can feel confident and well-prepared when exam day arrives. In this section, we'll discuss some tips and resources for preparing for the Part 107 exam and finding quality drone pilot training near you.

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III: Important Safety Considerations

UAVs, have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their versatility and capabilities. However, the growing popularity of drones has also led to concerns about safety. There have been reports of drones crashing into buildings, endangering people and disrupting flights. As a result, it is important for drone operators to prioritize safety considerations when flying their drones. In this article, we will take a closer look at the preflight planning process for drones and the safety measures that should be taken into account.

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Related PAM Article: Safety First: Preflight Planning Process Inside Look

 

IV: Airspace Research + Authorizations

With the rapid expansion of the drone industry, airspace research and airspace authorizations for drones have become crucial aspects to ensure safe and efficient operations. In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulates the use of drones in the national airspace system (or NAS), and obtaining proper airspace authorizations is a vital step for commercial drone operators to comply with FAA regulations. This section will provide an overview of airspace research and the process for obtaining airspace authorizations for drone operations in the United States.

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faa drone zone login
 

V: REcommended Additional Gear

To become a successful drone pilot, you need more than just a drone. There are a few additional pieces of equipment that can help you capture high-quality footage and operate your drone safely. Aside from your controller and mobile device, other helpful accessories include extra batteries, a battery charger, propeller guards, a carrying case for transport, and more. Additionally, depending on your intended use, you may need specialized cameras, lenses, and filters for your drone to capture the best footage possible. It's important to invest in quality equipment and take the time to learn how to use it properly to ensure a successful and safe flight.

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VI: Finding Clients

Finding clients can be challenging, but there are several effective strategies that can help you attract potential customers. Social media and networking are great places to start. You can also consider partnering with businesses in complementary industries, such as real estate or construction, to offer bundled services and reach a wider audience. Additionally, offering promotions or discounts to first-time clients can help attract new customers and build loyalty over time. In this section, we’ll look at how you can market your skills and/or services and attract paying clients.

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VII: Understanding Project Requests

Every client and project is unique, with specific objectives, requirements, and challenges that must be taken into consideration. Misinterpreting or overlooking critical information from the client can result in costly mistakes, wasted time, and unsatisfied customers. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully listen to and understand the client's requests, ask relevant questions, and clarify any doubts to ensure that the project is executed accurately and efficiently. This approach not only helps build trust with the client but also enhances the reputation of the drone pilot in the industry. In this section, we will explore why understanding client/project requests is vital for drone pilots and the key steps involved in the process.

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[Ext. Article: Project Management Institue] Creating Clear Project Requirements

 

VIII: Flight Training Exercises

Continued training and skills practice are crucial components for any aspiring drone pilot. These exercises are designed to teach the necessary skills and knowledge needed to operate a drone safely and efficiently. From understanding the mechanics of the drone to navigating through various weather conditions, flight training exercises provide a comprehensive experience that prepares drone pilots for real-world scenarios. In this context, drone pilots can explore and improve their skills, knowledge, and confidence to fly and operate their drones successfully. This section will provide an overview of flight training exercises you can do to sharpen your skills and build confidence as an RPIC.

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IX: Remote ID Compliance

Staying up-to-date with the latest regulations from the FAA is crucial to ensure the safe and legal operation of your unmanned aircraft system (UAS). One of the newest regulations, which officially goes into effect on September 16, 2023, is the requirement for sUAS Remote ID compliance. This rule mandates that all drones flown in controlled airspace must have a Remote ID system that can broadcast specific information about the drone and its flight in real-time. In this section, we will provide an overview of what sUAS Remote ID compliance is, how it works, and what drone pilots need to know to ensure compliance with this new rule.

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Related PAM Article: What Is Remote ID?

[Ext. Article: DroneU] Legal Non-Compliance of the FAA’s Remote ID Rule

 

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Scheduling & Cancellation Policy

All booking requests are subject to the following; 1. Federal Airspace Restrictions, 2. Scheduling Availability, and 3. Weather. ProAerial Media LLC will make every attempt to accommodate your preferred flight date/window, but, in the unlikely event we can’t—there’s no need worry. We’ll let you know right away (usually within 48hrs), if either airspace waivers or our teams schedule conflicts with your requested dates and/or flight location. If so, we’ll work to promptly reschedule or issue a full refund, whichever you prefer.

Should weather present a cause for concern, our team will alert you in the days leading up to your scheduled flight as part of our pre-flight communications. Weather-related flight cancelations receive priority rebooking, and are not eligible for refunds. The on-site Pilot in Command is the final authority on all flight matters, and has the final say regarding day-of weather related delays and cancellations.