faa part 107 Archives - FLYING Magazine https://cms.flyingmag.com/tag/faa-part-107/ The world's most widely read aviation magazine Fri, 02 Aug 2024 18:10:39 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.4 How Crewed Plane Pilots Can Get a Part 107 https://www.flyingmag.com/careers/how-crewed-plane-pilots-can-get-part-107/ Fri, 02 Aug 2024 18:10:36 +0000 https://www.flyingmag.com/?p=212304&preview=1 Eight steps to earn your Part 107—and countless benefits.

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Having graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy, I have many pilot friends.

Several of my classmates went on to fly military aircraft while I ran around on the ground as a Marine Corps officer. Most of us are now out of the military. Even so, since getting my Part 107 certification, I have joked with several of them that flying my drone is just as sexy as flying fighter jets.

While drones may not become the aircraft featured in the next installation of the Top Gun franchise, they continue to grow in importance. The drone industry is growing every year, and signs point to the trend continuing through at least 2050.

Pilots of crewed aircraft (Part 61 license-holders) will find passing the Part 107 certification exam much easier than the general public. That’s because fixed-wing pilots will already know roughly 75 percent of the material from previous FAA exams and experience. The remaining 25 percent is specific to drones.

There are three key reasons you should consider obtaining a Part 107 if you are already flying:

  • There are several benefits to having a Part 107.
  • You already know 75 percent of the exam material.
  • The process for getting a drone pilot license is easy.

Top Benefits of Commercial Drone Pilot Certification

As a crewed aircraft pilot, you’re clearly committed to a career in aviation. Drone technology is proving invaluable across a growing number of industries, and in many cases their uses relate to work already carried out by private and commercial pilots. 

Adding a Part 107 certification can be advantageous to you on several levels.

Expanded Career Opportunities

Obtaining a Part 107 certification opens up a wide range of career opportunities.

For example, drones are becoming indispensable in real estate, agriculture, construction, and first responder operations. As a certified drone operator, you can provide aerial photography, surveying, and inspection services, all of which are in high demand.

Becoming a certified remote pilot allows you to work as a freelance drone operator or consultant offering specialized services that can diversify your professional portfolio beyond traditional piloting roles.

Enhanced Skill Set

Adding a Part 107 certification to your credentials enhances your skill set, making you more adaptable as a pilot.

Drones use advanced technologies, including sophisticated navigation systems, sensors, and data collection tools. By mastering these technologies, you can increase your technical expertise in ways that improve your proficiency at your primary job. 

These dual capabilities demonstrate that you are at the forefront of technological advancements in aviation, ensuring you remain relevant and competitive.

Overhead Reduction

Drones can offer significant cost savings when compared to traditional aircraft. By eliminating or reducing the fuel and maintenance expenses of crewed flights, you’re able to perform tasks such as aerial surveys, inspections, and photography much more economically. 

This cost-saving potential, in turn, makes you more attractive to employers and clients looking for efficient ways to complete projects.

Increased Regulatory Knowledge

Holding both a crewed aircraft pilot’s license and the Part 107 drone certification demonstrates an in-depth understanding of aviation regulations and safety protocols.

 It highlights your commitment to upholding FAA regulations, helping you build credibility with clients and employers while preventing you from making costly mistakes.

Competitive Advantage

Dual certification gives you an edge in the job market.

Employers and clients value pilots with diverse experience in both crewed and uncrewed aircraft. Adding a Part 107 to your other certifications showcases your dedication to professional development. 

By obtaining a Part 107 certification, crewed aircraft pilots can significantly enhance their career prospects, skill set, cost efficiency, regulatory knowledge, and market competitiveness, making it a valuable addition to their professional credentials.

Part 107 Exam Key Topics

The FAA Part 107 exam covers a comprehensive range of subject matter designed to ensure commercial drone pilots have the necessary knowledge to safely and legally operate UAVs. The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, with a score of 70 percent (at least 42 correct answers) or higher required to pass.

Regulations

Questions related to regulations make up 15-25 percent of the exam. This section includes operational rules under Part 107, the requirements for obtaining and maintaining a remote pilot certificate, and the process for applying for waivers for specific regulations. 

Airspace Classification and Operating Requirements

This is a topic that crewed aircraft pilots will find easy to understand. For these questions, you will identify the various airspace classes (Class A, B, C, D, E, and G), restricted and prohibited areas, temporary flight restrictions (TFRs), and the process for obtaining airspace authorizations. This section also accounts for 15-25 percent of the questions.

Weather

Weather-related questions account for 11-16 percent of the exam. You will need to demonstrate your understanding of how various weather conditions, such as wind, visibility, and temperature, affect commercial drone operations. Familiar sources for official weather information (METARs and TAFs) are also covered in this section. 

Loading and Performance

Loading and performance, focusing on how weight and balance affect drone performance and assessing performance data under various conditions, comprise 7-11 percent.

Operations

The remaining 35-45 percent covers operations. Questions in this section include emergency procedures, crew resource management, knowledge of radio communication procedures, and airport operations, including runways, taxiways, and avoiding crewed aircraft. Operations questions also address physiological factors affecting pilot performance, such as health and medication, as well as maintenance and inspection procedures. Finally, it includes rules and safety procedures for night operations.

Overall, the Part 107 exam ensures that remote pilots are well-prepared to safely and effectively integrate small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) operations into the national air space by covering a broad range of crucial topics. 

Steps to Obtain FAA Part 107 Drone License Certification

The process involves several easy steps for crewed aircraft certification holders interested in obtaining a Part 107 certification. Each step is designed to ensure a comprehensive understanding of drone regulations and safe operating practices.

1. Understand Part 107 requirements.

The first step is to familiarize yourself with FAA Part 107 drone program governance, which regulates the commercial use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Part 107 laws cover operational limitations, requirements for remote pilot certification, and rules for maintaining sUAS. 

2. Study for the Knowledge Test.

Although private pilot license (PPL) holders already have significant aviation knowledge, the Part 107 certification requires you to demonstrate an understanding of drone operations. Topics you may need to become more familiar with include weather effects on drones, drone maintenance, and emergency procedures when operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). 

Even if you’ve been flying for many years, it’s important to study the topics that are specific to drones. You will find many resources available to help prepare you for the exam, including the FAA’s study guide, online courses, books, and Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 107 practice tests.

3. Schedule the test.

Next, schedule the Part 107 Aeronautical Knowledge Test at an FAA-approved knowledge testing center. There are currently more than 800 testing centers in the U.S. The test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within two hours. You need a score of at least 70 percent to pass.

4. Take the Part 107 exam.

On the test day, bring a government-issued photo ID. The testing center will provide everything else. After passing the test, you will receive a knowledge test report with a unique identification number.

5. Complete FAA Form 8710-13.

With the knowledge test report in hand, complete FAA Form 8710-13, available on the FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) website. This form is an application for a remote pilot certificate with an small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) rating.

6. Pass the TSA Background Check.

Once the application is submitted, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) conducts a security background check. This step is usually pretty straightforward for PPL holders as you have already passed similar checks.

7. Receive Your Certificate.

Upon successful completion of the background check, you will receive a temporary remote pilot certificate, allowing you to start operating drones commercially. The permanent certificate arrives by mail and can take up to several months if the FAA is backed up.

8. Maintain Your Part 107

To maintain your Part 107 certification, you must complete recurrent training every 24 months to ensure your knowledge stays current with the latest regulations and safety practices. The training and test are both free and online.

One of the Simplest Aerial Maneuvers You Can Make

If you’ve been on the fence about getting your drone license, hopefully this article has made your decision-making process easier.

By following these steps, private pilots can add the Part 107 certification to their credentials, enhancing their marketability and opening new professional opportunities in the growing field of drone operations. 

As a private pilot your experience and knowledge of FAA regulations makes you well suited to become a commercial drone pilot. Unlock the many benefits of the Part 107 by signing up for an online or in-person course today or by reviewing the FAA study guide on your own. 

FAQ

How much does it cost to get a Part 107 drone license?

It costs $175 to take the exam, but optional study materials and training courses typically cost anywhere from $99 to $350 depending on the provider. Research offerings from reputable schools such as The Pilot Institute, Sporty’s, and Altitude University for detailed prices.

Can a private pilot fly commercial drones without a Part 107?

No. Even with a pilot certificate issued under Part 61, the FAA requires you to have a Part 107 to fly drones commercially.

How does Part 107 certification impact pilot insurance?

Typically the insurance you carry on crewed aircraft will not cover you for commercial drone operations. You will need to get additional insurance. Commercial drone insurance is very affordable.

What kind of training is available for pilots to prepare for the Part 107 exam?

Pilots will find there are excellent online courses, books, and other materials through trusted providers such as Sporty’s, and study aids on YouTube.

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8 Best Commercial Drone Pilot Schools for Specific Industries https://www.flyingmag.com/modern/8-best-commercial-drone-pilot-schools-for-specific-industries/ Mon, 10 Jun 2024 12:23:33 +0000 /?p=209180 Here are some of the top courses for building your skills.

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Are you one of those rare individuals who enjoys making money? Joking aside, just about everyone, including myself, would like to earn more cold, hard cash for their efforts. In the rapidly growing drone industry, there is one sure-fire method for raising your earning potential: specialized training.

Passing the FAA’s Part 107 exam is just the beginning of your journey as a commercial drone pilot. While you can earn a decent living without additional drone education, the real money lies in specialized training for more technical drone services. 

In this article, I’ll share some of the top programs in various specialized fields within the drone industry.

Quick Look: Top Drone Pilot Programs With Industry-Specific Courses

  • Best for real estate: The Pilot Institute
  • Best for thermal inspections: The Infrared Training Center
  • Best for survey and mapping: UAV Coach
  • Best for first responders: DroneResponders
  • Best for law enforcement accident reconstruction: Pix4D
  • Best for data analysis: DroneDeploy
  • Best for credibility in the industry: AUVSI Trusted Operator Program (TOP)
  • Best for your next step after the Part 107: Altitude University

8 Best Industry-Specific Commercial Drone Pilot Courses

There are many courses out there. Like anything, price and quality can vary significantly from one program to the next. For this list, I have selected high-quality and well-respected courses that are worth investigating. Consider them the best place to begin your search within each specialized field.

The Pilot Institute

Best for: Real estate drone photography

Most drone pilots start out in real estate photography. The Pilot Institute has a great course to help you build a profitable business as a drone pilot in the real estate industry.

  • Taught by experts in the field and is nine hours long
  • Covers subjects including how to capture and edit footage
  • Leads you through the creation of two different real estate listing videos

Disadvantage: If you need really specialized training on a specific type of real estate, such as large industrial complexes, you may require additional instruction.

Price: $149

The Infrared Training Center

Best for: Thermal inspections

Your drone may have a thermal camera, but if you don’t understand thermography, you probably won’t be able to provide it as a service. When it comes to thermal cameras, no one is better than Teledyne FLIR. Its Infrared Training Center offers Level I & II small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) thermography certification courses.

Features:

  • Covers current IR cameras and imaging capture techniques
  • Explains how to plan your flight’s altitude and range-to-target to get accurate thermal information for drone inspections
  • Teaches you how to maximize post-processing software for image analysis, generate reports, and edit videos

Disadvantage: While courses are high quality, they’re also expensive.

Price: $2,300

UAV Coach

Best for: Drone mapping essentials

Creating maps with drones is becoming much more common. However, you need training and the right equipment to develop ones that are accurate. Dylan Gorman, who is one of the best instructors you’ll find on this particular topic, teaches UAV Coach’s online course.

Features:

  • Provides an overview of the equipment and software used in drone mapping
  • Highlights methodologies for data collection
  • Describes how to create professional data deliverables for clients

Disadvantage: If you require more in-depth training, you’ll need to attend one of the UAV Coach’s two-day, in-person workshops.

Price: $399

DroneResponders

Best for: First responders

DroneResponders isn’t just a school. It’s the best organization for first responders using drones. I have been a member for several years, and it provides a wealth of free resources to its members.

Features:

  • Offers loads of free information to members
  • Supports first responders starting or growing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) programs
  • Holds in-depth training at drone-related events throughout the year

Disadvantage: Not all training is free.

Price: Varies

Pix4D

Best for: Law enforcement accident reconstruction

When it comes to accident reconstruction, Pix4D is one of the best and most established software platforms on the market. In this online course you’ll learn best practices for capturing RGB images and creating, managing, analyzing, and sharing 2D and 3D representations of reality.

Features:

  • Teaches the basics of photogrammetry and capturing collision scene images
  • Explains how to generate realistic, accurate 2D and 3D georeferenced representations of reality, including orthomosaics and 3D models
  • Includes instructions on exporting 2D and 3D deliverables for documentation and post-processing

Disadvantages: You will need to have a license for PIx4Dmatic software.

Price: $290 for the course (Pix4Dmatic license costs $3,500 and is billed annually)

DroneDeploy

Best for: Data analysis

At the end of the day, drones are flying data collection platforms. The data is useless, though, without someone who’s able to present it in a comprehensible manner to end users. DroneDeploy’s Analyst Certification courses qualify you as an expert in several fields.

Features:

  • Offers analyst courses for the construction, agriculture, mining, and oil and gas industries
  • Includes curriculum crucial compliance management details, among other important topics

Disadvantage: Courses require annual recertification.

Price: Annual subscription fee of $250 to access the DroneDeploy Academy

AUVSI Trusted Operator Program (TOP)

Best for: Industry credibility

AUVSI is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of uncrewed systems and robotics. Its TOP certification is widely recognized across the drone industry. AUVSI also certifies others to offer its curriculum, including one of my favorite trainers, Consortiq.

Features:

  • Bridges the gap between getting your Part 107 and being a recognized professional
  • Teaches how to fly your drone to demonstrate safety and proficiency
  • Outlines risk mitigation methods, making you a safer and more professional pilot

Disadvantages: Certification may not be familiar to those outside the industry.

Price: Level I costs around $260, and there are three levels.

Altitude University

Best for: Next step after getting your Part 107

Altitude University’s 14-day challenge course is designed to teach you everything from camera settings to editing in two weeks. Offered online, this self-paced training is designed to help you kickstart your drone business.

Features:

  • Uses industry experts to explain the best camera settings
  • Helps you avoid mistakes made by beginners
  • Teaches how to edit with Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve

Disadvantage: Not industry specific, but includes instruction that can be applied across a range of industries.

Price: $197

Benefits of Specialized Commercial Drone Training 

If you already have your Part 107 certification, you may wonder why you need anything else. After all, legally, you just need your remote pilot certification. Well, there are many benefits to additional training courses and programs like those listed above. 

Here are a few of the most important, especially if you are looking to increase revenue for your drone service business:

  • Enhanced skill set: Additional training improves your piloting skills, including navigation, operating in various conditions, and how you respond to emergencies. This can significantly enhance safety and efficiency.
  • Career opportunities: As the drone industry continues to grow in sectors like agriculture, real estate, filmmaking, surveying, and emergency response, trained pilots are in high demand. New skills can make you significantly more marketable as a pilot.
  • Increased earnings potential: With advanced skill sets, you can demand higher rates for your services, whether flying for someone else or operating as a freelancer.
  • Safety and compliance: Training teaches you to operate drones within legal and regulatory frameworks, reducing the risk of legal issues and enhancing safety for you and anyone in your vicinity.
  • Technical proficiency: UAV innovations are rapidly coming to market. Specialized training helps you learn to use advanced drone technologies, such as thermal imaging, multispectral sensors, and sophisticated mapping software.
  • Networking: Training programs connect you with other drone pilots and professionals. Greater exposure can increase your value in the industry.

In the end, these benefits make specialized drone pilot training an attractive investment for those seeking more lucrative commercial drone pilot jobs.

Make Yourself More Competitive as a Drone Pilot

Specialized training in the drone industry will sharpen your skills while also significantly boosting your earning potential. By investing in programs such as those listed, you position yourself as a top-tier pilot who’s qualified to earn more than your average UAV operator with only a Part 107 certification. 

FAQ

Are drone pilots in high demand?

Yes. The drone industry continues to grow annually, as does the need for pilots.

How long does it take to study for a drone license?

It depends on the person. Some people can learn the material to pass the Part 107 exam over a weekend. Other people need several months. On average, if you study the material for an hour a day, you can be ready for the exam in two to three weeks.

How much does it cost to become an FAA drone pilot?

When you sign up for the Part 107 exam, the testing center will collect $175.

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5 Trends Impacting Future Drone Pilot Employment in 2024 https://www.flyingmag.com/modern/trends-impacting-future-drone-pilot-employment/ Fri, 24 May 2024 14:31:50 +0000 /?p=208250 Through a combination of obtaining your Part 107 license and understanding industry trends, you can take your share of the commercial drone pilot jobs available in this rapidly growing field.

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The morning news is often full of bleak projections for the economy. Massive layoffs, dropping stock prices, and pessimistic industry growth projections are all too common.

Thankfully, there is resilience within the global economy that keeps everything moving along a positive trajectory in the long run. When considering an industry for work, it’s important to select one that’s progressing forward with lots of growth potential. The commercial drone industry has both of these traits and more.

In 2021 the global commercial drone market was valued at $20.8 billion. By 2030 it’s expected to balloon to $1.2 trillion. That’s a compound annual growth rate of 57 percent. If you’re already in the drone industry, stay there. If you’re a hobbyist or someone looking to become an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operator, now is the perfect time to join an industry that’s starting to take off.

Through a combination of obtaining your Part 107 license and understanding industry trends, you can take your share of the commercial drone pilot jobs available in this rapidly growing field.

Part 107: Your Ticket to Admission

Before you can earn a living as a commercial drone pilot in the U.S., you are legally required to earn a remote pilot certification from the FAA. The exam is commonly called the Part 107. Other countries and regions have similar requirements.

There are many FAA drone regulations, and although the government provides an FAA part 107 study guide, many people find it isn’t enough. The majority learn the material for the exam through online courses such as those provided by Altitude University, ASA, and the Pilot Institute. In these courses you’ll find industry-leading instruction, quizzes, flashcards, and FAA Part 107 practice tests. It is the best option for most people looking to join the industry.

There are many different types of drones and drone jobs. Each drone use case has its own specific needs with regard to pilot skills and drone capabilities. The common denominator for all combinations and applications is the need to keep an eye on future drone pilot employment trends. In 2024 the top five trends to watch include:

  • Increasing commercial adoption
  • Regulatory changes and standardization
  • Drone innovation
  • Rise of urban air mobility
  • Integration with emerging technologies

Trend 1: Increasing Commercial Adoption

Just a decade ago, it seemed like the drones on the market (outside of the military) had more applications as toys than as useful tools of industry. In just the last few years, drones have become indispensable across the board. From precision agriculture to construction and infrastructure inspections, the use-case scenarios for UAVs continues to grow.

Offering the right mix of technology and affordability, drones appeal to a certain pioneering spirit of innovation. They’ve discovered lost cities, studied whale health, mapped unreachable terrain, identified crop diseases, and provided industries with game-changing capabilities that a decade ago would have only been a dream. The demand for drones is thanks largely to the unparalleled efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and data accuracy they’ve made possible.

Pilots looking to benefit from this trend should:

  • Become an expert in at least one silo (construction, agriculture, mapping, inspections, etc.).
  • Stay informed of new equipment coming out by subscribing to manufacturers’ newsletters and attending industry events.
  • Look for additional services to offer clients, so you can expand adoption and increase revenue streams.

Trend 2: Regulatory Changes and Standardization

Drone technology is way ahead of the regulators. Innovations like beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) allow drones to safely operate well beyond FAA limits, for example. To their credit, regulatory bodies such as the FAA and Federal Communications Commission are working hard to establish clear regulations and standards to keep the skies safe and moving efficiently. 

As new technology emerges, the FAA has continued to define guidelines for drone pilots and manufacturers. While these have not always been well liked by existing pilots, the agency will continue to update, change, and introduce new standards and regulations surrounding flight restrictions, pilot licensing, operational limitations, and data privacy protocols. For these reasons, pilots must keep informed of the trend toward greater regulation.

The best methods for remaining informed include participating in:

  • FAA website and email updates: The FAA’s official website is a valuable resource for drone pilots. 
  • FAASTeam seminars and webinars: These events cover a wide range of topics, including regulatory updates, airspace awareness, risk management, and best practices for drone pilots.
  • Drone industry associations and organizations: Joining reputable drone industry associations and organizations can also help pilots stay informed about FAA regulations.

Trend 3: Advancements in Drone Technology

The innovative spirit of the drone industry is rapidly increasing drone capabilities and efficiencies. Flying the first drone I  bought over a decade ago was more art than science. Drones in those days lacked stability, and payloads were good for the time but laughable by current standards. 

Newer drones come with advanced features, such as obstacle avoidance, real-time data processing, and autonomous flight modes, making it easy for all pilots to look like they are seasoned UAV operators.

The trend toward more autonomous systems, which practically fly themselves, allows pilots to focus more on data collection instead of keeping their drone level. There will always be a need for the pilot, but as drones continue to evolve, the role of the pilot is likely to change. Operators will need to become more specialized in data collection and interpretation. Additionally, pilots will also need to learn to fly more advanced systems. 

Pilots looking to remain relevant as technology advances should:

  • Explore advanced drone models.
  • Never stop learning and seek new training opportunities as advanced technology comes to market.

Trend 4: Rise of Urban Air Mobility

If you are unfamiliar with urban air mobility (UAM), you’re not alone. This relatively new concept has only started to gain traction in the last few years. UAM is a revolutionary transport system using small, electric aircraft for vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) in urban areas. Imagine a sky where pilotless air taxis bring people to where they need to go and drones fly around delivering our goods and providing services without much effort on our part. That is the promise of UAM. 

As UAM adoption increases, there are many exciting opportunities for drone pilots. Even as aircraft gain greater autonomy, the demand for skilled pilots will be needed for many years or decades before full autonomy can be achieved. Skilled pilots capable of navigating urban airspace, embracing safety standards, and adhering to regulations will find gainful employment in this sector.

Keys to finding employment within UAM.

  • Get and maintain any relevant certifications.
  • Acquire specialized training, such as flying in confined spaces.
  • Stay informed on any changes related to UAM.

Trend 5: Integration with Emerging Technologies

Our final trend is the growing shift toward integrating other cutting-edge technologies with drones. Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and 5G networks are starting to greatly improve drones’ capabilities. Advances such as these, when applied to drones, are enabling UAVs to analyze data in real time, identify objects, and make autonomous decisions, enhancing their efficiency and accuracy.

Pilots looking to get the most out of these emerging technologies need to cultivate an understanding of them. While you may not need to know how to write the code for AI algorithms or be able to build 5G networks, you must understand enough to apply the technology to your specific drone application. 

Pilots should:

  • Explore drones equipped with AI capabilities.
  • Participate in courses focusing on AI integration.
  • Stay updated on advancements in AI, ML, and 5G technologies.

Take Advantage of New Drone Pilot Employment Opportunities

As the commercial drone market continues to rapidly grow, current and aspiring pilots must take note of trends affecting the industry. Start your journey by getting your Part 107 with the help of online courses and never stop learning.

If you continue to learn new technology as it comes to market, stay informed of regulatory changes, and look for opportunities to integrate technologies such as AI and ML, you’ll remain competitive in the drone industry for the foreseeable future.

FAQ

How do I start a career as a drone pilot?

Your career as a drone pilot begins with training. You must pass the Part 107 exam in order to become a commercial drone pilot in the United States. Learn the material and pass the exam to begin your career.

Is there a job market for drone pilots?

Yes. The drone industry is growing rapidly, and there is a huge need for UAV operators.

How much do drone pilots get?

Like most careers, it depends on many factors. Salary.com estimates the average annual salary for a Drone Pilot career to be $48,649. It is not uncommon for some pilots to earn over $100,000 per year.

The post 5 Trends Impacting Future Drone Pilot Employment in 2024 appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

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Police Interrupt Prison Drone Delivery https://www.flyingmag.com/police-interrupt-prison-drone-delivery/ Wed, 13 Jul 2022 16:20:38 +0000 https://www.flyingmag.com/?p=147746 A Texas man is accused of using a drone to try to drop cell phones and other contraband into a federal prison.

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A federal grand jury has indicted a man in Beaumont, Texas, after police said they caught him trying to use a drone to fly contraband into a prison. 

The indictment charged Davien Phillip Turner, 44, with owning or operating an unregistered drone and serving or attempting to serve as an airman without an airman’s certificate, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Texas, announced Tuesday. 

The arrest of Turner, who also goes by Davien Phillip Mayo, is part of a disturbing trend involving drones which are designated as “unmanned aircraft systems” (UAS) by the FAA. 

“Prisons around the country have faced the problem of individuals using drones to fly over prison complexes and drop contraband items to the prison population,” a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office said. 

Details of the case are now being investigated by the FBI, the Bureau of Prisons, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and the FAA. 

On May 19, police in Jefferson County, Texas, responded to a report that someone was “operating a drone on the property of the Federal Correctional Complex in Beaumont,” the statement said. They “found Turner in the area where the drone was being operated,” according to authorities. 

Law enforcement officers also “discovered several bags near the drone that Turner allegedly was going to drop into the prison complex via the drone,” the statement said.  Police listed several items in the bags, including:

  • tobacco
  • cell phones
  • cell phone chargers
  • various tools
  • vape pens

Officers suspect these goods “were to be sold by inmates within the prison.”

About the Drone

The UAS allegedly used by Turner was identified as a DJI Matrice 600 Pro, which is used by professional drone pilots, but is no longer in production. According to DJI’s website, the Matrice 600 Pro features a hexacopter design propelled by six motors and proprotors. Its maximum flight time, with a payload of up to 5.5 kg (12 pounds) and six batteries, ranges between 16 and 18 minutes. 

The drone also has a maximum range of 3.1 sm, and features retractable landing gear.  Federal regulations require all drones that weigh more than 0.55 pounds to be registered. The FAA also requires all drone operators flying for non-recreational purposes to obtain an FAA remote pilot certificate under 14 CFR Part 107.

If convicted, the U.S. Attorney’s Office said Turner will face up to three years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000. 

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