In recent years, drones have become increasingly popular for inspecting infrastructure, mapping construction sites, or capturing stunning aerial footage. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the person operating a drone is FAA licensed, as this not only ensures compliance with regulations but also promotes safety in the skies. In this article, we will explore the steps you can take to verify if your drone pilot is licensed.
“It is extremely important that drone pilots are FAA certified: First and foremost, it is ILLEGAL to fly a drone without an FAA license for commercial purposes. If a company is using unlicensed pilots this is ILLEGAL.”
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The responsibility for unlicensed flights extends beyond the drone pilot to the hiring company, putting both parties at risk. However, these risks can be readily minimized if the hiring company takes the proactive step of verifying the drone pilot’s license before entering into any contractual arrangements.
What's included in the PDF...
The key elements to look for in a professional drone pilot.
How to avoid government fines and personal liability.
What a drone license is, and how to confirm a pilot has one.
Why Verify a Drone Pilot’s License?
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States requires drone pilots to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate, also known as a drone license, for any commercial operations. This license, FAA Part 107 Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems, legally permits an operator to fly a drone for commercial purposes. This certification is essential as it signifies that the drone pilot has undergone the necessary training and understands the regulations governing drone flights. Verifying a drone pilot’s license helps guarantee that they are operating within legal boundaries and have the skills to fly safely.
Example of Authentic FAA Part 107 License
Screening Questions You Should Ask a Licensed Drone Pilot
When vetting a licensed drone pilot for your project, it’s crucial to go beyond the certification and delve into their operational knowledge and commitment to safety. Here are five screening questions to help you assess a drone pilot’s expertise:
1. Can you describe your safety protocols during drone operations? What happens if you were to crash into something?
This question assesses the pilot’s awareness of safety measures and their preparedness for potential accidents. A responsible drone pilot should have well-defined protocols in place and be able to articulate the steps they would take in the event of a mishap.
Related Article – How to Pitch Drone Solutions to Your Boss, a Step by Step Guide
2. Are you familiar with airspace regulations for flying drones? I heard that they cannot be flown near airports?
Understanding airspace regulations is fundamental for safe drone operations. A licensed drone pilot should be well-versed in the restrictions and guidelines surrounding airspace, especially concerning areas near airports. This question helps gauge their knowledge of the legal boundaries for drone flights.
3. How do you handle adverse weather conditions? What precautions do you take to ensure safe flights in challenging weather?
Adverse weather can significantly impact drone operations. A skilled drone pilot should have a plan in place for handling adverse conditions, including strong winds, rain, or low visibility. This question helps you assess their preparedness and commitment to safe flying practices.
4. Can you provide examples of past projects where you faced unexpected challenges during drone operations? How did you overcome them?
This question delves into the pilot’s practical experience and problem-solving skills. By sharing instances of past challenges, the drone pilot demonstrates their ability to adapt and find solutions in real-world scenarios, showcasing a higher level of competence.
5. What equipment and technology do you use for your drone operations? How do you ensure that your equipment is well-maintained and up-to-date?
A reliable drone pilot should be equipped with the right tools for the job. This question not only assesses their familiarity with drone technology but also ensures they prioritize equipment maintenance and upgrades. A well-maintained drone is crucial for safe and efficient operations.
Remember, even if you lack technical knowledge about drones, paying attention to the pilot’s responses and trusting your instincts can go a long way. A licensed drone pilot should not only have the necessary qualifications but also demonstrate a commitment to safety, professionalism, and adaptability in various operational scenarios.
Ways to Verify a Drone Pilot’s License:
- Ask for Documentation: The simplest way to verify a drone pilot’s license is to ask them for documentation. A licensed drone pilot should be able to provide you with their Remote Pilot Certificate, which includes their name, certificate number, and the expiration date. This is a green and white government issued card like a driver’s license (without a photo), issued by the FAA with a security seal in the lower right corner of the card.
- FAA Airmen Registry Search: The FAA maintains a publicly accessible Airmen Inquiry Search Page website where you can search for registered drone pilots. By entering the pilot’s name or contact information, you can verify the validity of their license. This online tool provides a quick and reliable way to confirm a drone pilot’s certification status (without the need to confront the pilot themselves).
It’s crucial to note that FAA Part 107 drone licenses have a validity period of only two years from the date of issue. Within this timeframe, drone pilots must take a recertification test to maintain their license. Failure to do so results in license revocation, rendering any subsequent commercial operations illegal. If your drone pilot has held their license for more than two years, be sure to request their “Recurrent Certificate.” Since the FAA doesn’t provide new physical license cards, this document acts as evidence of the pilot’s ongoing compliance with licensing requirements.
Example of Authentic FAA Part 107 Recurrent Certificate
Verifying whether your drone pilot is licensed is a crucial step in ensuring the safety and legality of drone operations. The Drone Life pilots are highly trained, licensed, OSHA-certified, and experienced in navigation and safety around commercial sites. By hiring an experienced drone service provider, you can ensure your plans are carried out by professionals who understand the nuances and complexities of your project. Schedule a free consultation today with The Drone Life for more information.
What's included in the PDF...
The key elements to look for in a professional drone pilot.
How to avoid government fines and personal liability.
What a drone license is, and how to confirm a pilot has one.
