Rated Pilots Get Easy Drone Certification

A new rule from the FAA on commercial drone operation was published in late June and offers some opportunities for rated pilots who might want to branch out a bit. The good news is the new rules allow even a private pilot to earn some coin by operating a drone without the pesky nuisance of getting a commercial certificate. The great news is it shouldnt cost anything-just some time to go through a training presentation on an FAA web site and then do some online paperwork at another FAA web site.

Monday, July 18, 2016 at 12:00 AM ET

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Key Takeaways:

A new FAA rule, effective August 29, 2016, introduces a "remote pilot certificate" for commercial drone operations (UAS up to 55 lbs).
Existing Part 61 pilots can easily obtain this drone certificate by completing online training and paperwork, without needing a full commercial certificate, opening new economic opportunities.
The FAA is also increasing its focus on pilot mental health, implementing measures such as enhanced medical training and pilot assistance programs to reduce stigma and encourage treatment following the Germanwings crash.

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A new rule from the FAA on commercial drone operation was published in late June and offers some opportunities for rated pilots who might want to branch out a bit. The good news is the new rules allow even a private pilot to earn some coin by operating a drone without the pesky nuisance of getting a commercial certificate. The great news is it shouldn’t cost anything—just some time to go through a training presentation on an FAA web site and then do some online paperwork at another FAA web site.