How to Be Drone Pilot - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Dec 19, 2023 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The increase in drone usage has caused an exponential rise in the number of drone pilots. With the rise in demand, many people have obtained their drone pilot license to become certified drone pilots. This has led to a wide range of applications of drones, from aerial photography and videography to delivery services.

The popularity of drones has also opened up new job opportunities for drone pilots, allowing them to become self-employed or work for a company. The use of drones has also enabled businesses to save time and money by using drones to conduct inspections, surveys, or deliver goods. Drone pilots are also able to use their skills to create stunning aerial images, provide valuable data, and capture unique perspectives.

Steps How to Become

Research the regulations and laws in your area. You need to make sure that you understand the regulations and laws in your area before you can become a drone pilot.
Obtain a drone pilot license. Depending on your area, you may need to obtain a drone pilot license before operating a drone. Check with your local aviation authority to find out what is required for licensing.
Purchase a drone. You need to purchase a drone that is appropriate for your needs. Research the different types of drones available and decide which one best suits your needs.
Learn how to fly. Before you can become a drone pilot, you will need to learn how to fly a drone. This can be done by taking classes or reading books on the subject. You can also find tutorials online that will help you learn the basics of flying a drone.
Practice flying. Once you have learned the basics of flying a drone, you will need to practice in order to become proficient. Find an open area where you can practice safely and get some experience flying a drone.
Become familiar with FAA rules and regulations. The FAA has its own set of rules and regulations for flying drones. Make sure that you familiarize yourself with these rules and regulations before attempting to fly your drone.
Join a local flying club or network of pilots. Joining a local flying club or network of pilots is a great way to learn more about flying drones and to meet other pilots in your area.
Take an online test or course. Many areas require that you take an online test or course in order to become a licensed drone pilot. Check with your local aviation authority to find out if this is necessary in your area.
Keep up with current technology. Technology is constantly changing, so it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in drone technology. This will help you stay ahead of the curve and ensure that you are operating your drone safely and legally.

Operating a drone safely and responsibly requires a certain level of education and knowledge. To become a reliable and qualified drone pilot, one must first understand the rules and regulations regarding drone flight. This includes such topics as airspace classification, airport operations, no-fly zones and safe distances from people, vehicles and buildings.

knowledge of the drone's hardware and software, including battery and charging safety, remote control protocols and how to update firmware is essential. Furthermore, practice and experience are important aspects of becoming a reliable and qualified drone pilot. This includes learning how to properly fly the drone, maintain orientation and awareness of the environment, use automated features safely and effectively, recognize environmental factors that can affect the drone's performance and how to recover from a lost signal or unexpected event.

By taking the time to gain a comprehensive understanding of the regulations, hardware and software associated with operating a drone, as well as gaining experience through practice, one can become a reliable and qualified drone pilot.

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Job Description

Fly unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in accordance with FAA regulations.
Conduct pre-flight safety checks on UAVs.
Document flight details including waypoints, mission duration, and other relevant data.
Monitor UAVs in flight, adjusting speed and altitude as necessary.
Operate all other related equipment, such as computers and cameras, necessary for UAV operations.
Interpret and analyze data collected from UAVs.
Develop and maintain mission logs, flight plans, and other operational documentation.
Respond to any operational or mechanical issues that arise during flight.
Maintain a safe work environment and adhere to all safety regulations.
Collaborate with other members of the UAV team to ensure successful mission completion.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of basic aeronautics and aviation principles.
Knowledge of airspace classification and regulations.
Ability to read and interpret aeronautical charts and maps.
Proficiency in aircraft operations, systems and components.
Understanding of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and guidelines.
Expertise in aircraft maintenance and safety procedures.
Understanding of remote piloting controls, technologies, and operations.
Ability to troubleshoot technical problems with remote piloting systems.
Proficiency in software applications related to drone piloting, such as mission planning, mapping, and data analysis tools.
Ability to interpret and understand weather data and assess risk associated with flying a drone in various conditions.
Excellent communication skills to interact with other pilots, air traffic controllers, and other personnel.
Ability to work independently and in a team environment as required.

Being a successful drone pilot requires many different skills and knowledge base. The most important skill to have is the ability to remain calm and composed in chaotic and stressful situations. This means that a drone pilot should have excellent problem-solving skills and be able to think quickly on their feet.

They must also have an in-depth understanding of the regulations surrounding drone operations, so they can keep themselves and others safe while they are flying. a drone pilot should have a strong technical background and be proficient in the use of the aircraft they are flying. Lastly, they must have excellent communication skills so they can effectively communicate with their crew, air traffic control, and other pilots.

All these skills are necessary for a successful drone pilot, as they need to be able to safely and effectively manage the aircraft while in flight.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with flying and operating drones?
How do you stay current with changes in technology and regulations related to drone operations?
What safety protocols do you have in place when operating a drone?
What is your experience with the different types of drones and their capabilities?
How would you go about planning a mission for a drone?
How do you ensure that your drone operations comply with local, state, and federal regulations?
What challenges have you faced while flying and operating a drone?
Describe a time where you had to troubleshoot a problem with a drone in the air.
What strategies do you use to ensure the accuracy of data collected by drone?
How do you manage data collected from drone operations?

Common Tools in Industry

Flight Simulator. A program that allows users to virtually control and fly an aircraft, providing a realistic experience. (eg: Microsoft Flight Simulator)
Autopilot. A device or system that enables an aircraft to fly autonomously, without manual control. (eg: DJI Phantom 4 Autopilot)
GPS Navigation. A navigation system that uses Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites to provide real-time location and navigation information. (eg: Garmin GPSMAP 64s)
Radio Communication Equipment. A device that transmits and receives radio waves, allowing pilots to communicate with other aircraft or air traffic control. (eg: Yaesu VX-8R Dual Band Handheld Radio)
Flight Planning Software. Software that helps pilots plan their route and calculate the most efficient way to fly from one point to another. (eg: ForeFlight Mobile)
Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Maps. Maps that show the airspace boundaries, terrain, and landmarks that pilots must avoid while flying in VFR conditions. (eg: SkyVector VFR Sectional Chart)
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). A remotely operated or autonomous aircraft that can be used for aerial photography, surveillance, and other applications. (eg: DJI Phantom 4 Pro UAV)

Professional Organizations to Know

Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI)
Unmanned Safety Institute (USI)
Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA)
Small UAV Coalition
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Systems International (UAVSI)
Commercial Drone Alliance
Airborne International Response Team (AIRT)
Drone User Group Network (DUGN)
National Unmanned Aerial Systems (NUAS)
International Air Transport Association (IATA)

We also have Glider Pilot, Air search and Rescue Pilot, and Aerial Survey Pilot jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). A type of aircraft that is operated without a human pilot onboard.
Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA). An aircraft that is operated by a pilot from a remote location via a direct data link or control station.
Line of Sight (LoS). The ability of the pilot to maintain a visual connection between the UAV and the remote control station.
Visual Observer (VO). An individual responsible for maintaining a visual line of sight with the UAV and providing visual cues to the drone pilot in case of lost signal or other issues.
National Airspace System (NAS). The system of air traffic control, airports, and airspace allocated by governments for civilian use and aircraft operations.
Airspace Class. The FAA classification of airspace based on air traffic control, altitude, and activity.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The governmental body responsible for regulating all aspects of aviation in the US and its territories.
Part 107. A set of regulations issued by the FAA that govern commercial and recreational drone operations, including flight rules, certification requirements, and airspace restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What certifications are needed to become a Drone Pilot?

In order to become a certified Drone Pilot, one must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This requires passing an Aeronautical Knowledge Test, being at least 16 years old, and having a valid government-issued ID.

What is the maximum altitude a Drone Pilot can fly their drone?

According to the FAA, Drone Pilots are only allowed to fly their drones up to 400 feet above ground level.

How many hours of flight experience are required to become a Drone Pilot?

The FAA does not require any specific amount of flight experience in order to become a certified Drone Pilot. However, they do recommend that prospective Drone Pilots have some flight experience prior to taking the Remote Pilot Certificate exam.

What type of airspace can a Drone Pilot fly in?

Drone Pilots are generally allowed to fly in Class G airspace, which is uncontrolled airspace below 700 feet. However, they must obtain an authorization from the FAA before flying in Class B, C, D, and E airspace.

How much does it cost to become a certified Drone Pilot?

The cost of becoming a certified Drone Pilot varies depending on the type of certification and the number of hours of flight experience needed. Generally, it will cost between $150-$400 for the application fee and testing costs.