Opportunities for unmanned aircraft system (UAS) pilots are now wide-open under the new FAA small UAS (sUAS) Part 107 rule, which legalizes and regulates these air ops. Drone work in the U.S. film and TV industry has also taken flight recently under the agency’s Section 333 exemption waivers. Meanwhile, demand for experienced commercial and military pilots to operate government UAS devices grows as well. Brian Wynne, president and CEO of the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) — which represents the autonomous and robotic system industry — and member of the FAA’s Drone Advisory Committee, and Tony Carmean, partner/producer of pioneering UAS cinematography firm Aerial MOB, which helped the FAA establish the Section 333 exemption, explain how to become a UAS pilot under these new rules.
How to Become a Professional Drone Pilot
Key Takeaways:
- Commercial UAS pilots require an FAA Part 107 remote pilot certificate, obtained by passing an aeronautical knowledge test (or holding a Part 61 pilot certificate and completing an online course).
- Part 107 imposes operational limitations such as UAS weight under 55 lbs, flights below 400 feet, and within line of sight, with waivers possible under Section 333 exemptions.
- The UAS industry is expanding into various sectors like film, agriculture, and law enforcement, where professionalism, mission-specific knowledge, and industry etiquette are crucial for employment.
- While conventional piloting skills are not always paramount, specialized knowledge (e.g., cinematography for entertainment) and professional conduct are highly valued, with entertainment UAS pilots earning $1,000-$2,000 per day.
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