A commercial drone pilot or Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) is a person who operates a drone (or unmanned aircraft system, UAS) for purposes related to business, work, or other compensated activities. Unlike hobbyists who fly drones recreationally, commercial pilots use drones to perform tasks that generate income or provide services.

Commercial drone pilots are in high demand as businesses increasingly use drones to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

  • Key Roles of a Commercial Drone Pilot

    1. Aerial Photography/Videography: Capturing images or videos for real estate, events, advertising, or media.

    2. Inspection Services: Examining infrastructure like power lines, cell towers, pipelines, or wind turbines.

    3. Surveying and Mapping: Using drones to create topographic maps, 3D models, or land surveys for construction and agriculture.

    4. Agriculture: Monitoring crops, spraying fertilizers, or identifying pest infestations.

    5. Search and Rescue: Assisting emergency services by using drones to locate missing persons or survey disaster areas.

    6. Delivery Services: Transporting goods or medical supplies, though this is an emerging field.

    7. Law Enforcement: Assisting with surveillance, traffic monitoring, or crowd control.

    8. Wildlife and Environmental Monitoring: Observing animals, tracking migrations, or monitoring environmental conditions.

  • To legally operate as a commercial drone pilot in the United States, you must:

    1. Obtain a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

      • This involves passing the FAA’s Part 107 Knowledge Test, which covers regulations, airspace, weather, drone operation, and safety.

    2. Register your drone with the FAA if it weighs more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams).

    3. Follow FAA regulations, including:

      • Operating only in Class G airspace unless a waiver is granted.

      • Flying below 400 feet and maintaining visual line-of-sight (VLOS).

      • Not flying over people or moving vehicles unless a waiver or special permission is granted.

  • Industries That Use Commercial Drone Pilots

    • Real Estate

    • Film and Media

    • Construction

    • Energy and Utilities

    • Agriculture

    • Emergency Services

    • Logistics and Delivery

    • Flight Skills: Proficiency in drone navigation and safety.

    • Knowledge of Regulations: Understanding airspace classifications, weather conditions, and operational limitations.

    • Technical Expertise: Familiarity with drones, cameras, and software for data processing.

    • Problem-Solving: Adapting to challenges in the field, such as wind conditions or technical failures.

Precision Agriculture

Cell Tower Inspections