1. IS THE PILOT LICENSED?
In August, 2016 the FAA introduced 14 CFR 107 (also known as Part 107), which are the commercial operating rules for drones weighing less than 55 pounds. Pilots and operators who wish to operate drones for commercial (for-hire) purposes are now required to have a Part 107 ‘drone/UAS’ license to do so legally. Asking if the potential hire has a license is a good first step, but you should follow-up with asking to see their actual FAA certificate/license. The FAA can impose steep fines not only on unlicensed operators, but also to those that hire an unlicensed operator! You can find more information about FAA Part 107 HERE.

2. IS THE OPERATOR INSURED?
Using an operator that follows the rules and has procedures in place to prevent mishaps can put the odds in your favor for a safe and successful operation, but no matter how knowledgeable or experienced an operator may be, there is always a chance that something could go wrong. Though it is not a requirement under the FAA Part 107 rules, it is highly advised that you seek a drone pilot who carries some sort of liability insurance to protect you and the operator should anything happen.

3. ARE THEY KNOWLEDGEABLE ABOUT AIRSPACE/FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS?
It is imperative that whomever you are looking to hire has a good deal of knowledge about when and where operations can be safely conducted. The National Airspace System is is one of the most complex aviation systems in the world, and there are certain requirements, including waivers and authorizations, that the operator must have to legally fly for commercial purposes within certain types of airspace – specifically, ‘Controlled Airspace’. There are also specific waivers that are required for other types of operations as well, such as night time, operations over people, etc.

4. WHAT IS THE OPERATOR’S EXPERIENCE LEVEL/HOW LONG HAVE THEY BEEN IN BUSINESS?
Drones are a new and exciting business to be in with some estimating that the global drone industry could be worth $127 billion by the year 2020! With everyone and their brother buying a drone and starting up a drone business it can be difficult to know who you are dealing with. Asking someone what their experience level is and/or how long they have been in business is a good start, but you should also be able to discern the professionals from the amateurs by the quality of their work.

5. DO THEY HAVE A PORTFOLIO OF THEIR WORK AVAILABLE?
Before buying a house or a new car, you first go to check out the property or take the car for a test drive to see how you like it. It should be no different when you are paying someone to get aerial photos or video. You should have a good idea of the quality of work that the drone operator provides before hand to ensure that you are getting your money’s worth. Asking your potential hire if they have an online portfolio of their work is a good step to ensuring that you will get the quality of aerial images you envision.

This list is a good start in vetting a drone pilot and we invite you to contact us with any other questions or concerns that you might have. We look forward to hearing from you!