Don’t Hire Unlicensed Drone Pilots
Opting to hire a drone pilot who lacks a Part 107 certification could potentially lead to a variety of complications and drawbacks.
The Part 107 certification, issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), signifies that a drone pilot has met specific requirements and demonstrated a thorough understanding of the rules and regulations governing the operation of drones for commercial purposes. Here's why it's important not to overlook this certification when hiring a drone pilot:
Legal Compliance: The Part 107 certification is a legal requirement for anyone operating a drone for commercial purposes. Hiring a pilot without this certification could expose you to legal liabilities and potential fines if their operations are discovered by authorities.
Safety and Expertise: The Part 107 certification process includes training on various safety aspects of drone operation, airspace regulations, and emergency procedures. A certified pilot is equipped with the knowledge to navigate potential risks and ensure safe flight operations, both for the drone and the people and property on the ground.
Aeronautical Knowledge: Part 107 certification requires a pilot to demonstrate a level of aeronautical knowledge that ensures they understand airspace classifications, weather patterns, and other factors that can affect flight safety. This knowledge helps pilots make informed decisions during flight, reducing the likelihood of accidents.
Professionalism: The Part 107 certification is a testament to a pilot's commitment to their craft and their professionalism. It shows that they have invested time and effort into their training and are serious about adhering to industry standards and best practices.
Insurance Coverage: Many insurance companies require drone pilots to have a Part 107 certification in order to provide coverage for commercial drone operations. Hiring a certified pilot can ensure that you have the necessary insurance coverage in place to mitigate potential risks.
Quality of Work: A certified pilot is more likely to provide a higher quality of work, as they have received training in capturing quality aerial imagery or video and have a better understanding of how to achieve the desired results for your project.
Avoiding Reputation Damage: Hiring a non-certified drone pilot who violates regulations could lead to negative publicity or damage to your brand's reputation. It's important to work with professionals who prioritize legal and ethical practices.
In summary, hiring a drone pilot without a Part 107 certification can compromise legal compliance, safety, expertise, and overall professionalism. By choosing a certified pilot, you are investing in a higher level of professionalism, safety, and quality for your aerial projects.
