Drones are becoming a go-to tool for businesses, offering impressive aerial imagery and data collection capabilities. Whether it’s for real estate, construction, or event photography, hiring a drone pilot seems like a no-brainer. But here’s the catch: not all drone pilots are created equal.
One of the most important factors to consider when hiring a drone service is making sure the pilot is both **licensed** and **insured**. Why? Because it’s not just about getting stunning aerial shots – it’s about safety, compliance, and protecting your business.
Hiring a licensed pilot ensures the job is done right and within legal boundaries.
Why Licensing Matters
When you hire a licensed drone pilot, you’re hiring someone who’s passed the FAA’s requirements to legally operate a drone. This means they understand critical aspects like:
Airspace regulations: Licensed pilots know where they can and cannot fly. This keeps your project safe and compliant with federal laws.
Weather conditions: Certified pilots are trained to recognize weather that could affect the flight, ensuring your project isn’t disrupted by unsafe conditions.
Emergency procedures: Things can go wrong during a flight – battery issues, hardware malfunctions, or unexpected obstacles. A licensed pilot knows how to handle emergencies efficiently.
Privacy concerns: Licensed pilots understand privacy laws, ensuring your drone doesn’t unintentionally invade private property or record sensitive information.
Hiring a licensed drone pilot is not just about compliance; it’s about working with someone who knows how to operate a drone safely and professionally.
Insured drone pilots give you peace of mind, knowing you’re covered in case of accidents.*
The Importance of Insurance
Even the best drone pilots can face unexpected issues. This is where insurance comes into play. A drone pilot with liability insurance ensures that if something goes wrong – like damaging property or injuring someone you’re not left holding the bill. Here’s what insurance typically covers:
Accidental property damage: Flying a drone involves risks. If the drone crashes into a car, window, or equipment, insurance will cover the damages.
Injuries: If someone gets hurt due to a drone accident, insurance helps cover medical expenses and potential legal claims.
Equipment damage: Drones are expensive pieces of equipment. If the pilot’s drone is damaged during the job, their insurance will cover the repair or replacement costs, ensuring your project isn’t delayed.
By hiring an insured drone pilot, you protect yourself and your business from costly accidents and liability issues.
Penalties for Hiring an Unlicensed Drone Pilot
Thinking about cutting corners and hiring an unlicensed pilot to save some cash? You might want to reconsider. The FAA takes unlicensed drone operations seriously, and you could face significant penalties if caught.
1. Fines up to $32,666 per unauthorized drone flight. If you hire someone without an FAA license, both the pilot and your business could be fined. The FAA can impose fines on both the operator and the person who hired them.
2. Civil penalties: If an unlicensed pilot damages property or causes injury, you could face lawsuits, especially if they don’t have insurance.
3. Business reputation: Hiring unlicensed drone operators can lead to bad press or damage your business reputation. No one wants to work with a company that ignores legal requirements or puts people and property at risk.
The Bottom Line
Hiring a licensed and insured drone pilot is more than just a box to check – it’s a safeguard for your business. You’ll avoid hefty fines, ensure safe operations, and protect your projects from potential legal issues. So, next time you need aerial imaging, make sure you’re working with a professional who has the proper credentials.
Don’t take unnecessary risks with your business. Hire a drone pilot who’s both licensed and insured for peace of mind and high-quality results.