How Much Money Can You Make as a Professional Drone Operator

From agriculture to construction, to wedding photography, drones are fast becoming a must-have tool.

This means there’s a growing demand for drone operators, and with it, a lucrative career opportunity. How much can you really make operating drones professionally? We’ll take a closer look.

The Industry is Taking Off

It’s crazy how fast the drone industry is growing. Drone sales reached $127 billion in 2020, and this number continues to increase. With that, the demand for drone pilots skyrocketed.

Several factors contribute to this growth, such as the growing use of drones for commercial and industrial purposes and new regulations that make it easier for businesses to use drones.

The Pay Can Vary

Drone operators can earn different amounts of money depending on a variety of factors, such as their experience, location, and type of work.

Drone operators earn around $65,000 a year on average, according to Glassdoor.

On the other hand, freelance drone operators can charge anywhere from $75 to $250 per hour depending on the job.

The Sky’s the Limit

A drone operator can earn money in a variety of ways besides traditional piloting jobs.

You could, for example, start your own drone photography or videography business and sell your footage to stock footage websites or you could perform drone inspections for power lines and cell phone towers.

There are countless possibilities!

Tips for Becoming a Top-Notch Drone Pilot

Becoming a top-notch drone pilot takes skill, practice, and dedication.

You can soar to success by following these tips:

Practice, practice, practice: Practicing ensures you become more confident and comfortable with your drone.

Take a flight training course: You will learn the basics of flying and be able to operate your drone safely after taking a good flight training course.

Stay current on regulations and laws: To ensure you’re operating legally and safely in the drone industry, make sure you stay current on regulations and laws.

Make sure your drone is well-maintained and has high-quality cameras and other equipment to produce better results and make you more attractive to clients.

Getting Your Wings: What You Need to Become a Professional Drone Operator

To become a professional drone operator, you need more than just a love of flying.

Before you get started, here are a few things you’ll need:

A Part 107 Certification: Commercial drone operations require a Part 107 certification issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). As part of the process, you must pass a written test and have some flight experience.

A drone: Of course, you’ll need a drone to operate! Be sure to choose one that is FAA-compliant and has the capabilities to meet your specific needs.

Basic flight training: Although it’s not required by the FAA, basic flight training will teach you how to operate a drone safely.

Insurance: Liability insurance is important for your business and yourself in case of accidents or injuries.

With these things in place, you’ll be ready to take to the skies and start making money as a professional drone operator.

So, what are you waiting for? Time to get your wings and start soaring!

A skilled drone pilot is expected to be in high demand as the drone industry continues to grow at an unprecedented rate. Depending on your skills and experience, you can make an impressive amount of money as a drone operator. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a seasoned professional, there’s never been a better time to explore the exciting world of drone operation.

ALSO READ: Pros and Cons of Online Retailers VS Brick and Mortar Stores