Last Updated on March 7, 2024 by Admin
As the drone industry continues to grow, more and more people are choosing to pursue a career in the drone industry. If you are considering this career path, then you will want to read this article on how to become a drone pilot & how to become a commercial drone pilot, drone pilot salary, training, jobs, and career path.
As drone technology continues to advance, drone pilots are quickly moving into a large role in the world of aviation. But if you’re wondering how to become a drone pilot, or what it’s like to work with drones as a profession, read on to learn drones and drone piloting!
Table of Contents
What is a drone?
Drones are unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) that have autonomous intelligence and the capacity to carry out missions by remote control. Drones can be controlled from any ground or air position without putting a pilot at risk. Drones are also called UAS, abbreviated as Unmanned aircraft system
Most drones operate autonomously and just need human interaction for takeoff, landing, loading/unloading cargo, or patrolling applications. One of the most attractive benefits of drone technology is that there are many ways in which they can save lives – monitoring wildlife, conducting surveys and search-and-rescue operations, filming productions, and creating 3D maps.
They may also be equipped with explosives or missiles to fire at targets. A drone can carry video cameras or still photographs as well as specialized infrared, ultraviolet, radar, laser, and acoustic equipment.
What is meant by a Drone Pilot?
What is meant by a UAV Pilot? Drone pilots are individuals who fly unmanned aerial vehicles or drones. There are many job opportunities for drone pilots worldwide in the agriculture, construction, and transportation industries.
Drone pilots operate unmanned aerial systems. Drones are programmable, remotely controlled unmanned aircraft that employ a variety of advanced sensors, global positioning satellites (GPS), and imaging technology.
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Roles and responsibilities
Drone pilots have many jobs within their roles. Some of these roles include assessing targets to ensure safety and highlighting them for the other team members, testing wire-guided aerial torpedoes, managing and identifying sensor data, inspecting cleared airspace, and fully controlling unmanned airborne vehicles.
- Remotely pilots and operates vehicles for various purposes including, but not limited to, aerial photographing and progress tracking, reconnaissance, surveillance, and terrain mapping.
- Conducts UAV systems testing and maintenance and assists in the planning, development, and execution of flight test events and demonstrations.
- Ensures drone operations comply with laws and regulations as necessary.
- These can include types of missions like conventional takeoff and landing, static line towers, and personnel deployments.
- A drone pilot may possess specialized certifications that cover areas such as piloting, protection of the environment, hovering with stabilization methods, radio use, and flight formations.
- They provide transportation for shipping and food delivery, from renting boats to outer-space research.
- They also find lost items and serve humanity by tracking disaster areas and testing government codes of law.
- Previous drone skills may include experience driving, working as a computer-based data entry clerk, or handiwork in a wide variety of creative and mechanical fields.
Criteria to Become a Drone Pilot
In India, all the conditions must be fulfilled – your age must be 18-65; you should have passed class 10th or equivalent examination from a recognized board; you should have completed the training prescribed for the applicable class of remote pilot license from an authorized RPTO.
Remote pilot licenses come with a validity of 10 years unless suspended or canceled. Also, a remote pilot license is valid only if it is unlisted on the Digital Sky Platform.
Becoming a pilot is possible once you have graduated from an academy and specialize in drone aircraft operations.
UAS types as per DigitalSky DGCA, India
UAS is abbreviated as Unmanned aircraft system – It means an aircraft that can operate autonomously or can be operated remotely without a pilot on board.
“DigitalSky platform” means the online platform hosted by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) India, for various activities related to the management of unmanned aircraft system activities in India.
The unmanned aircraft system shall, based on the maximum all-up weight including payload, be classified:
- Nano: Less than or equal to 250 grams
- Micro: Greater than 250 grams and less than or equal to 2 kg
- Small: Greater than 2 kg and less than or equal to 25 kg.
- Medium: Greater than 25 kg and less than or equal to 150 kg.
- Large: Greater than 150 kg.
The unmanned aircraft system shall be categorized into the following three categories, namely:
- Aero plane
- Rotorcraft and
- Hybrid unmanned aircraft system
The aero plane, rotorcraft, and hybrid unmanned aircraft system shall be further sub-categorized as follows:
- Remotely piloted aircraft system
- Model remotely piloted aircraft system
- Autonomous unmanned aircraft system
You can check the DigitalSky website for all the details to get your remote pilot license.
What is a Remote Pilot License?
A remote Pilot License is equivalent to a driver’s license for a car. A license is required to fly a drone for commercial purposes in India. Flying commercially without a Remote Pilot License would be termed illegal.
Overview of the drone pilot training program
You need to be trained from a DGCA-authorised training center to become a drone operator
If you wish to be a drone pilot then you should be trained from a training center authorized by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). You need to have proper documents and will have to register as a “Remote Pilot” to obtain your “Pilot Identification number” and Unmanned Aircraft Operator Permit (UAOP).
Utilizing drones for commercial purposes that include:
- Aerial surveillance, Monitoring & Law enforcement
- Geographical Mapping & Surveys
- Agriculture, Aquaculture & Forestry
- Search & Rescue / Disaster Management
- Aerial Cinematography, Videography Journalism & Photography
- Cargo Delivery & Logistics
- Air taxis & Urban Air mobility
What is the duration of training to become a drone pilot
Most drone training programs are short and mostly around five to seven days. You do not need to own a drone to get trained. All required training kits including the drone are provided by the training institutes.
What is the cost of drone pilot training in India?
The five to seven days of drone pilot training course at any of the DGCA authorized training institutes are mostly upwards of Rs 65,000 and less than Rs 1 lakh. The fees include all kits and training materials.
What Can You Do With a Drone Pilot Licence?
Now, because there’s been so much progress in recent years, it’s expected that drone pilot licenses will become more commonplace in the future. For anyone who is interested in a career as a drone pilot, this is good news.
What are the different types of market opportunities where you can use your skills?
One lucrative opportunity is aerial photography and videography for businesses, local governments, and environmental consulting companies. Amazon is one of the biggest examples of an organization that works with aerial photographers on their projects and hires on projects to assist them. Another big way drones could be applied would be in search and rescue operations.
A drone pilot license means you can fly small, unmanned aircraft through the air using your own creativity. This can be a fun and exciting occupation meaning you in no way have to sign up for boring office work again. Drones are becoming more accessible with their micro size, low cost, and autonomy meaning it is the perfect time to consider becoming a drone pilot.
Where to get the Drone pilot Training
Following are the DGCA authorized Remote Pilot Training Organisations (RPTOs)where you can enroll for your drone pilot training.
Alchemist Aviation Pvt. Ltd.
Ambitions Flying Club Pvt. Ltd
Flytech Aviation Academy
Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi
Pioneer Flying Academy Pvt. Ltd
Redbird Flight Training Academy Pvt. Ltd.
The Bombay Flying Club
Telangana State Aviation Academy
CASR Anna University
Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademy(IGRUA)
Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademy (IGRUA)
Drone Destination Pvt. Ltd.
Ganpati Aviation Solutions
Government Aviation Training Institute (M/s Global Avianautics Ltd.)
Drone pilot salary
The salary for drone pilots varies significantly across countries, reflecting differences in demand, industry development, and regulatory environments. Here’s a snapshot of drone pilot salaries in top countries, including India, as of :
- United States: The estimated total pay for a drone pilot is around $96,548 per year, with an average base salary of $87,791 per year.
- India: The average salary for a drone pilot is about ₹65,500 per month, with additional cash compensation averaging around ₹50,000.
- Malaysia: A drone pilot in Malaysia earns an average salary of RM 39,600 per year, with total pay ranging from RM 21,000 to RM 136,000.
- European Countries:
- France: Average salary is around €50,000 per year, with a range between €34,000 and €60,000.
- Italy: Drone operators earn an average of €19 per hour, with yearly salaries ranging between €27,000 and €48,000.
These figures indicate a broad spectrum of earnings potential for drone pilots, influenced by geographical location, industry demand, and individual skill level. The United States showcases some of the highest salary figures, indicative of a mature market for drone operations. India’s burgeoning tech industry presents growing opportunities for drone pilots, reflected in competitive monthly salaries. Malaysia offers a modest yearly salary, which can vary widely based on experience and sector.
European countries such as France and Italy offer a decent range of earnings for drone pilots, though salaries can vary significantly from one country to another, highlighting the importance of local market conditions and the development of the drone industry within specific regions.
It’s important for drone pilots to consider not only the base salary but also additional compensation, which can include bonuses, profit sharing, and other forms of financial remuneration. Furthermore, factors such as experience, certifications, and the specific industry of operation (e.g., aerial photography, inspection services, agriculture) can greatly influence earning potential.
Drone Pilot Career: Scope for the Future
As per a recent report, global UAV Drones Market to Reach US$58.5 Billion by the Year 2026
The global market for UAV Drones estimated at US$27.2 Billion in the year 2020, is projected to reach a revised size of US$58.5 Billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 13.9% over the analysis period. Multirotor, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is projected to grow at a 15.2% CAGR to reach US$32.3 Billion by the end of the analysis period.
After a thorough analysis of the business implications of the pandemic and its induced economic crisis, growth in the Fixed-Wing segment is readjusted to a revised 14.1% CAGR for the next 7-year period. This segment currently accounts for a 27.3% share of the global UAV Drones market.
By 2030, the demand for UAV pilots should triple due to the change in realism in science and technology as well as the use of drones for military, government, and commercial purposes.
There are many jobs available with large companies such as Alibaba and Amazon, however, you need a specialized degree and experience in aerospace engineering. You will also need certifications, a few hundred pounds per month salary, and flight insurance for your drone.
There are many different career paths individuals can take today. If a person is looking to add to their income, an occupation such as a drone pilot is filled with many opportunities in the upcoming years. One of the most exciting facets of these future pilots will be UAVs. Within the next few years, transformational technologies like autonomous flight and onboard computing will revolutionize how drones are used in day-to-day activities around the world.
In the near future, drones have become as much a part of our lives as cars. Drones have made many people’s lives easier by doing search and rescue, going where helicopters cannot, mapping geography, and more.
With this in mind, the market for these types of careers has expanded dramatically and is growing exponentially. As the drone industry grows while the need for qualified pilots increases each day, it becomes clearer how dangerous drones-and other related professions can be to both those who operate them and their surroundings.
In the developing world, opportunities for drone pilot careers are relatively plentiful. The critical aspect of this career is specialization in a particular sector like agriculture, infrastructure, security, or sports due to the increasing demand for drone services. Another key element of being a successful drone pilot is being able to utilize machine learning and deep learning techniques that are happening at an exponential rate.
With the increasing interest and applications for drones, there will be a significant need for new drone pilots. It is essential for you to start building your skill-set today if you want to increase your chances of getting hired before the demand completely outstrips supply.
The Indian government is actively promoting and facilitating the growth of the drone industry. With this growth, the demand for drone pilots is set to grow significantly. It is a good career option as the industry has already started taking shape.
Drone pilot jobs in
Kindly check the below resources to search and find a drone pilot and related jobs from the drone industry.
Drone Pilot jobs on indeed.com
Drone Pilot, Drone Operator, Drone Instructor Jobs on Google jobs
Drone Pilot, UAV Pilot, UAS Pilot, and Drone operation specialist Jobs on Linkedin Jobs
Drone Pilot Jobs on Naukri.com
Conclusion
To become a drone pilot in India, individuals must undergo a specific process that includes obtaining the necessary training and certifications. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) oversees the regulation of drone operations in the country, and aspiring pilots must adhere to its guidelines. The first step involves enrolling in a drone pilot training program recognized by the DGCA. These programs cover theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for safely operating drones.
The drone pilot salary varies widely depending on the sector of employment, experience, and the complexity of drone operations. Drone pilots can find employment in various industries, including aerial photography, agriculture, surveillance, and logistics. As the demand for drone services expands, the opportunities for drone pilot jobs are increasing, offering a promising career path for certified pilots.
Drone pilot training is essential for mastering the operation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Training courses typically include modules on navigation, drone mechanics, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance. Upon completing the training, candidates must pass an examination to demonstrate their competence.
The cost of obtaining a drone license in India, known as the drone pilot license cost, includes fees for the training course and the examination. The drone license India cost can vary depending on the training institute and the level of certification required. It’s an investment in the pilot’s professional development and legal compliance.
The salary of a drone pilot in India is competitive and reflects the skill level and certifications of the pilot. Salaries can increase with experience and specialization in specific types of drone operations. The burgeoning use of drones across multiple sectors suggests a positive outlook for drone pilot salaries in India.
To legally operate a drone in India, pilots must obtain a DGCA drone pilot license. This license confirms that the pilot has met all regulatory requirements and is qualified to conduct drone flights safely. The process involves submitting proof of training, passing a background check, and demonstrating knowledge of the DGCA’s operational guidelines.
Drone pilot jobs, or “droe” pilot jobs as sometimes misspelled, are becoming more prevalent as industries recognize the value of drone technology. Opportunities range from freelance assignments to full-time positions in companies specializing in drone-based services.
In conclusion, the journey to becoming a drone pilot in India involves comprehensive training, obtaining a DGCA-approved license, and staying informed about the evolving regulations in the drone space. With the drone industry’s growth, the salary of a drone pilot in India is expected to remain attractive, offering a lucrative career for those with a passion for technology and aviation.
You may be asking yourself, “What are the best careers to pursue in the year ?”. The conclusion is that this time has never been better than now. If you are motivated to become a drone pilot, there will be plenty of opportunities before anyone graduates in these lucrative jobs. This article is one of the most updated career guides for drone pilots who are eager to start their careers in the drone industry. This guide will tell you everything about drones and what it really takes to become a pilot.
Drone Pilot FAQs
What Qualifications Are Required to Become a Drone Pilot?
To qualify as a drone pilot, individuals must complete a training program from a recognized institution that covers essential aspects of drone operation, including safety, navigation, and legal regulations. Additionally, obtaining certification from the relevant aviation authority, such as the DGCA in India, is required. This certification process often involves passing both written and practical exams to demonstrate proficiency in drone operations.
Is It Challenging to Become a Drone Pilot?
Becoming a drone pilot can be challenging but is achievable with dedication and proper training. The level of difficulty varies depending on the individual’s ability to grasp the technical aspects of drone operation and navigation, as well as their understanding of the legal and safety regulations governing drone flights. Success requires a commitment to learning and continuous skill development.
How Can I Become a DGCA Approved Drone Pilot?
To become a DGCA approved drone pilot in India, you must complete a training course from a DGCA-recognized training organization that covers the theoretical and practical aspects of drone operation. After completing the course, you’ll need to pass the DGCA’s examination to obtain a Remote Pilot License (RPL). Additionally, you should stay updated with DGCA regulations and guidelines, as adherence to these rules is crucial for certification and legal operation of drones.
What Career Opportunities Are Available for Certified Drone Pilots?
Certified drone pilots have a range of career opportunities in sectors such as aerial photography and videography, surveying and mapping, agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and emergency response. The specific opportunities available can depend on the pilot’s areas of expertise and interest, as well as emerging needs within industries adopting drone technology.
Are There Continuing Education Requirements for Drone Pilots?
Yes, continuing education is often required for drone pilots to maintain their certification and stay abreast of technological advancements, changes in regulations, and new operational techniques. Many certification bodies and regulatory authorities recommend or require ongoing training and recertification at regular intervals to ensure drone pilots’ skills and knowledge remain current.
