When it comes to flying drones, many pilots overlook a small but essential accessory: the drone landing pad. While it might seem like a minor detail, investing in a quality landing pad can significantly protect your drone’s motors, camera and gimbal from costly damage.
A drone landing pad creates a designated takeoff and landing zone. The primary reason you need this? To shield your drone from environmental hazards. Here are some of the key benefits of doing so:
Protection against debris on the ground: Drones create powerful downward airflow, especially during takeoff and landing. This airflow can kick up dirt, sand, grass and small rocks, which can get sucked into your drone’s motors or damage sensitive components like the camera lens or gimbal. A landing pad acts as a barrier between your drone and these hazards.
Prevents damage to sensors (and keep obstacle avoidance working well): Many drones have downward-facing sensors to assist with precision landing and obstacle detection. Dust or scratches on these sensors can impair their functionality, leading to inaccurate readings. A landing pad provides a clean, stable surface to keep sensors safe.
Keeps your drone dry and clean: Sure, many drones these days have increasingly good levels of water resistance. But you don’t want to get your drone damp if you can avoid it. If you’re flying in wet or muddy conditions, a landing pad keeps your drone’s landing gear clean and dry, preventing issues caused by moisture or dirt buildup.
The best drone landing pads
The PGYTECH Landing Pad Pro for Drones. Image courtesy of PGYTech.
Most drone pilots don’t need to get swindled into spending $50 or more on a drone landing pads. You probably don’t even need to spend more than $20! Here are some affordable and reliable options to consider:
STARTRC Drone Landing Pad ($17): This is the most budget-friendly option, with a double-sided design featuring bright orange and blue colors. It’s made of waterproof nylon and comes with stakes and a carrying pouch for convenience. It’s 22×22 inches.
PGYTECH Landing Pad Pro ($20): This foldable landing pad is made of durable, waterproof double-sided material and comes with reflective strips for better visibility in low-light conditions. It’s lightweight and portable (yes it folds up). The 20-inch version is designed for drones as large as the DJI Mavic 3 Pro (and are also great for something smaller like the DJI Mini 4 Pro).
Hoodman Drone Launch Pad ($40): For those willing to invest a bit more, the Hoodman pad is weighted and designed for professional use. The $40 version is 1.9 feet across. Its technically a weighted drone landing pad. Sure, you could use stakes (or even simple materials like rock) to hold it down. But for the most seamless experience, this weighted drone landing pad is better for windy environments or who need a quick setup.
How much money should you spend on a drone landing pad?
There are only a few situations where you might need to spend more than $40 on a drone landing pad. The biggest reason? Simply size. But even if you need a larger landing area, a portable pad might not be the solution.
Yes Hoodman (which makes our priciest small pick) sells the 1.9-foot version for $40. But, they also sell an 8-foot version for $429 (it also weighs 24 pounds on its own!). It’s unlikely anyone would need that — as even larger eVTOL drones likely have their own landing area.
You also see some branded landing pads. For example, there’s an Autel Robotics landing pad from popular drone maker Autel that goes for $69. You don’t get any added benefit from having the Autel Robotics logo on there – unless you like the aesthetic appeal. So, save your money and go for the $20, non-branded version.
Most drone pilots flying camera drones generally only need a 2-foot wide landing pad — and no special decor needed. A $400, 8-foot weighted pad (or $70 for the branded version) is overkill for most people.
How to make a DIY drone landing pad for free or cheap
Loyal followers know I love saving money (have you seen my other Instagram account, @SaveWithSally yet?). Buying a $20 drone landing pad can definitely be convenient — especially these ones that easily fold up and pop right back out. But if you’re not one to spend even a bit of money on a drone landing pad, then you certainly don’t have to! Creating a makeshift drone landing pad is easy and free using items you likely already have. Here are a few ideas:
Cardboard: Cut a large piece of sturdy cardboard into a square or circular shape. Paint it with bright colors or add reflective tape to improve visibility. While not waterproof, it’s a quick and lightweight option for dry conditions.
Old yoga mat: Repurpose an old yoga mat as a landing pad. Cut it to size if needed, and use weights to hold it down in windy conditions. Yoga mats are durable, provide cushioning, and are mostly resistant to moisture.
Plastic tablecloth: Lay down a plastic tablecloth or tarp on uneven or soft surfaces. Secure the edges with rocks or stakes to prevent it from blowing away. This solution works well for temporary use in damp or muddy environments.
Plywood: For a sturdier option that won’t blow away, use a piece of plywood as your landing pad. Sand the edges to avoid splinters and paint it for added visibility. This is ideal for fixed locations where portability isn’t a concern.
Tips for maximizing your drone landing pad
Anchor it to the ground: Even lightweight landing pads can blow away in windy conditions. Use stakes or weights (or just nearby rocks) to secure the pad when flying outdoors.
Clean regularly: After each use, wipe down your landing pad to remove any accumulated dirt or debris.
Position smartly: Place the landing pad on as flat and stable a surface as possible to ensure a smooth takeoff and landing.
Drone landing pads (an underrated accessory that might even be free)
For as little as $10 (and free, if you’re willing to DIY with old materials around your house), a landing pad is one of the most cost-effective ways to extend the life of your drone. It’s a small investment that can save you hundreds of dollars in motor repairs, sensor replacements or gimbal recalibrations.
Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional pilot, a landing pad is a must-have (and affordable) accessory to keep your drone flying smoothly and safely.
For commercial drone pilots, drone insurance can certainly be a safeguard for you, your business, your clients and your actual drones and other equipment (like fancy thermal cameras). But it’s not actually a Federal Aviation Administration requirement to hold drone insurance. So do you really need drone insurance anyway? .
But if you’re launching (or already have a drone business), or even you just want to protect yourself (and your expensive drone gear) if something goes wrong, then drone insurance can be critical.
A growing need for drone insurance
Real estate agents use drones to capture sweeping views of properties. Construction firms rely on them for site surveys. Filmmakers incorporate them for breathtaking aerial shots. The list goes on. But alongside their benefits comes the inevitable question: what happens if something goes wrong?
The key benefit of drone insurance largely stems from protecting you and others from damage. Imagine your drone malfunctions mid-flight and crashes into a parked car, shattering the windshield. Or worse, it injures someone. Without proper insurance, you could be on the hook for hefty repair costs — or even legal fees.
As a commercial operator, you might need it to actually land gigs. While the FAA doesn’t require insurance, many clients do. And if you’re flying drones outside the U.S. some other regulatory bodies require proof of insurance to fly in that country.
3 considerations when deciding to buy drone insurance for your business
Make these three considerations when deciding whether it’s worth buying drone insurance:
Your business needs: Different industries have different coverage requirements. A real estate photographer may need a modest liability plan, while a construction drone operator may require a higher policy limit due to the potential for costly damage.
Client expectations: Many clients require a Certificate of Insurance (COI) before signing a contract. They may specify certain liability limits or demand to be added as an additional insured on your policy.
Regulatory compliance: In some countries, governing bodies may impose insurance requirements, especially for flights over public spaces or near critical infrastructure.
Types of commercial drone insurance
There are a variety of drone insurance policies you can buy, which fall into a few different buckets — largely liability versus hull insurance (and yes, you might very well want both).
Drone liability insurance
Liability insurance covers property damage and bodily injury caused by your drone. If your drone crashes into a building or injures a bystander, drone liability insurance can protect you from financial fallout. Coverage limits range from $0.5M to $10M or more, depending on industry standards and client needs.
Drone hull insurance
Unlike liability insurance, which covers damage to others, hull insurance protects your own equipment. If your drone crashes due to pilot error, weather conditions or mechanical failure, hull insurance can help cover repair or replacement costs. Some policies also include coverage for theft and flyaways.
Industry-specific insurance benchmarks
Coverage can vary based on the nature of your own business and flights. That said, the folks over at SkyWatch Insurance send over some estimates for insurance benchmarks:
General photography: $0.5 million – $1 million
Real estate: $0.5 million – $1 million
Agriculture: $1 million
Construction: $1 million – $5 million
Mining: $2 million – $5 million
Cinematography: $2 million – $10 million
How to choose the right drone insurance plan
If you fly drones regularly, ongoing coverage is often the best option. Annual policies offer better long-term value for businesses handling frequent projects.
For occasional pilots, on-demand insurance provides flexible, flight-by-flight coverage. This option is best for not just occasional pilots flying one-time gigs, but it’s also generally better for pilots flying at something like a special event where higher liability limits are required.
How much does drone insurance cost?
Exact costs vary by provider. But using an example from Skywatch Insurance, which is one of the biggest insurance companies, monthly policies (this means you’ve opted for ongoing coverage) start at $44 for $0.5 million in liability coverage, with higher limits available.
What about that on-demand model? For a mainstream drone insurance provider like Skywatch Insurance, rates start at $10 per hour.
To get a better estimate of the exact cost of your drone insurance policy based on your situation, SkyWatch.ai offers free quotes — and they’re easy to generate. Simply go to the SkyWatch quote page. From there, input details like your liability limit, the type of plan you want, how many drones you want covered, and whether you want additional coverage — and a calculator will spit out your total price.
Here’s a preview of the Skywatch insurance estimate calculator:
Go for a drone insurance policy that evolves with your business
So what sorts of qualities should you look for when picking out the drone insurance company to go with? Especially if you operate drones for your business, the best drone insurance for Part 107 commercial pilots should allow you to:
Modify policies as needed.
Adjust liability limits based on client requirements.
Update your hull inventory.
Generate Certificates of Insurance (COI) quickly for new clients.
Many clients may require specific endorsements, such as Waiver of Subrogation or Primary & Non-Contributory Coverage. Understanding these requirements upfront can help you secure projects faster.
It’s also critical that you know who actually backs the company. For example, the aforementioned SkyWatch is underwritten by Global Aerospace, which also handles the claims process. Global Aerospace has been around for more than 100 years (initially in the crewed aircraft space, of course).
The bottom line: do you really need commercial drone insurance?
If you fly commercially, the answer is almost always a firm yes. Many clients won’t hire uninsured pilots, and legal fees from a drone accident can be financially devastating. Even for recreational pilots, insurance offers peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents.
With flexible plans ranging from on-demand to full-time coverage, drone insurance is no longer just an option — it’s a smart investment in your safety, business and future as a drone pilot.
FTC disclaimer: I receive a commission when you use one of my affiliate links to receive a quote from SkyWatch.ai. Thank you in advance for supporting The Drone Girl!
The Federal Aviation Administration’s Part 107 test is a crucial step for anyone aiming to become a certified drone pilot for commercial operations in the U.S. Some questions are pretty easy, where a dose of common sense could solve them. But other questions are not just difficult unless you’ve seriously studied — but they’re almost intentionally tricky. So of those, what are the most missed — or shall we say hardest Part 107 test questions?
I reached out to my friends at Drone Pilot Ground School, which has been offering online Part 107 test prep courses ever since 2016. Their program offers five, full-length practice tests that mirror the real exam format. Those tests come from a bank of more than 400 sample questions from the FAA.
When you complete the practice test, Drone Pilot Ground School sends over a performance report and breakdown of your incorrect responses. Given that, they have a strong data set of the Part 107 test questions that are missed the most.
They shared those questions with me. And along with that, Drone Pilot Ground School Customer Success Manager Michael McGuirt added is own insight on why they’re so tricky — and why the correct response is the way it is.
1) Which two factors can be used to compute the cloud base?
A) The temperature and the dew point B) The temperature and the barometric pressure C) The barometric pressure and the dew point
Correct answer: A. The temperature and the dew point
Why students miss this question: “Students they don’t really understand that ‘dew point’ is an actual temperature instead of just a weather term and that it is used to determine the cloudbase,” McGuirt said.
But understanding the relationship between temperature and dew point is key to determining when and where clouds will form.
Explanation: “The difference between the surface temperature and the dew point temperature determines the altitude at which the air cools to its saturation point,” McGuirt said. “This altitude is where clouds begin to form.”
A small difference (3-5º) between temperature and dew point results in a low cloud base, as the air doesn’t need to rise far to condense.
A large difference leads to a higher cloud base, as the air must rise farther before cooling to the dew point.
The height of the cloud base can be found on various weather apps such as UAV Forecast (1,900 ft AGL) or it can be calculated using the formula below.
Cloud Base Formula: (Current Temperature – Dew Point) = Spread Divide the Spread by 4.4 (if °F) or 2.5 (if °C), then multiply by 1,000 to get the cloud base in feet AGL.
Example: If the temperature is 82ºF and the dew point is 70ºF: 82 – 70 = 12 12 / 4.4 = 2.73 2.73 x 1,000 = 2,727 ft AGL
2) What is the only type of Class E airspace that requires an airspace authorization?
A) Class E Surface Area B) Class E Extension C) Class E Transition airspace that starts at 700 ft AGL
Correct answer: A. Class E Surface Area.
Why students miss this question: “There are eight types of Class E airspace and students think that any class of airspace outside of Class G requires an airspace authorization,” McGuirt said. “But the only type of Class E that requires an airspace authorization is Surface Area Class E.”
Explanation: Class E Transition airspace that starts at 700 ft AGL or 1,200 ft AGL, or Class E Extensions do not require an airspace authorization.
3) Which of the following is not one of the minimum message elements that must be broadcast by a standard Remote ID unmanned aircraft according to § 89.305?
A) The geometric altitude of the control station. B) The battery level of the unmanned aircraft. C) The latitude and longitude of the unmanned aircraft.
Correct answer: B. The battery level of the unmanned aircraft.
Why students miss this question: “This question is often missed because students have not committed to memory all of the elements of the Remote ID Broadcast message,” McGuirt said.
Explanation: There are eight elements that you have to commit to memory.
A serial number or session ID
Latitude and longitude of the control station
Geometric altitude of the control station
Latitude and longitude of the aircraft
Geometric altitude of the aircraft
The velocity of the aircraft
A timestamp in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC)
The emergency status of the aircraft
Notice that battery level is NOT a required element—a common misconception among test-takers.
Be prepared — because test scores aren’t great
If you thought those questions were difficult, you’re not alone. For what it’s worth, these three are the hardest Part 107 test questions. Still, many test-takers are missing more than just these three.
Out of the 67,576 people who took the Small Unmanned Aircraft Test in 2024, the average Part 107 test score was 79.95%. That’s not even a B.
Meanwhile, the pass rate was 84.2%. (Passing the Part 107 test requires a 70% score.) In fact, the Part 107 test has among the worst pass rates of any test issued by the FAA. For example, 91.9% of test takers pass the Airplane Private Pilot’s Test, and 85.64% pass the Airplane Instrument Rating Test. According to FAA data, the overall pass rate across all FAA-issued Airman Knowledge Tests in 2024 was 89.51%. Clearly, drone pilots are bringing the average down.
How to avoid missing the hardest Part 107 Test questions
These tricky questions illustrate why studying for the Part 107 test requires more than just a basic understanding of drones. To boost your chances of success:
Take a Part 107 prep course – Online courses like Drone Pilot Ground School (which provided the data for this story) and Drone Launch Academy provide structured lessons, practice tests and expert guidance. They also offer deals. For example, Drone Pilot Ground School offers an exclusive discount for Drone Girl readers to get you $100 off using coupon code DRONEGIRL100.
Use practice tests – Identify weak areas before test day with realistic practice questions. Again, pretty much any Part 107 online course will include these.
Focus on tricky topics – Subjects like airspace classifications, weather and Remote ID rules tend to cause the most trouble.
Bring the right materials – You need your brain power, but there are also some physical items you need to bring to the Part 107 test. That includes a valid, government-issued ID.
The following post about drone repairs was written in collaboration with Drone Nerds, which is a drone retailer and the largest authorized DJI retailer in the U.S. The company also has a robust repair team.
Drone Nerds has an affiliate agreement with The Drone Girl, meaning The Drone Girl receives a small percentage of revenue from purchases made through links on this page.
Drone owners face a tough decision when their equipment is damaged: is it worth repairing, or should you invest in a brand-new model? Buying a new drone is almost certainly easier than first diagnosing the problem, sending in your drone and waiting out the repair. Plus, there’s not always a guarantee that the repair will be the best option. But at the same time, a drone repair can often save money — at least if done correctly.
Here’s how to evaluate whether a drone repair or replacement is the best choice for you.
How much does a drone repair cost?
(Photo courtesy of Drone Nerds)
Generally speaking, repairs can cost about 30% to 50% of the price of buying the same drone brand-new. That’s just an average, where a more complicated repair might cost more or a simple repair might cost less. And of course, that percentage can also fluctuate based on the age of a drone. For example, a highly-outdated model might have already undergone a steep price cut.
Water damage tends to be the most challenging repair. If your drone has been water damaged, you might anticipate a total loss. Whether from saltwater or freshwater, the risk of long-term corrosion and unpredictable malfunctions may make water-damaged drones highly unreliable even after initial repairs.
In fact, Drone Nerds says its technicians typically recommend against repairs on water-damaged drones due to the high likelihood of future issues emerging, regardless of short-term fixes.
But other repairs are easy. For example, arm replacements and camera swaps tend to be more straightforward and generally yield consistent success rates.
When a drone repair makes sense
Here’s a straightforward way you can know that drone repair is the better option: if the cost of the drone repair amounts to between 50% or even two-thirds of the price of a new model, repairing it is typically the better option.
“Drone repairs are reliable,” said Drone Nerds’ Service Center Manager, Robert Settle.“When the aircraft is fixed, it will work just like new. Plus, you’re protecting your investment by extending its lifespan and maintaining its functionality.” Your repaired drone will always be worth more than one you throw away. You’re getting more for your money by repairing it”.
When to skip the drone repair and buy new
Conversely, that same calculation can also indicate that buying new might be better. If the repair will cost more than 66% of the amount of just buying a new drone outright, you generally should skip the repair.
In short, high repair costs relative to the cost to buy new makes the decision to fix your drone less practical. A reliable service provider should always offer a transparent and honest assessment, ensuring that you understand whether the repair is financially viable.
What if repair prices balloon unexpectedly?
If the repair price increases unexpectedly, the technician should inform you immediately. With that, they can offer guidance on whether upgrading to a new model or seeking alternative solutions would be wiser. The goal should always be to help you make a cost-effective decision that aligns with your needs.
Using a reputable drone service provider such as Drone Nerds should mitigate the risk of this happening. For example, Drone Nerds gives customers an upfront estimate when they send in their drone.
That’s a better model in ensuring transparency and allowing you to know the total cost before opting to proceed with repairs.
Warranty considerations: when to use coverage versus paying outright for repairs
You may have an insurance policy or extended warranty coverage for your drone. This might be through a standalone insurance policy you purchased. Sometimes, homeowners or renters insurance can even cover your drone gear. Certain credit cards offer insurance as a benefit for items purchased on that card, like your drone.
If it’s a DJI drone you’ve got, you might have purchased DJI Care. DJI Care is a protection plan that covers damage. It comes with a deductible and limited usage.
In situations like DJI Care, you need to account for that deductible in your final decision-making. If the cost of a repair is equal to or less than the deductible, it’s often smarter to pay for the repair and save your DJI Care for more significant issues. With other policies besides DJI Care, know that filing a claim can sometimes increase your premiums. Filing a claim for a $200 repair might not be worth it if your premiums will increase by more than $200.
By handling minor repairs independently, you can preserve your coverage for major incidents when it’s really needed. Trusted repair experts should help you assess whether using DJI Care, other insurance or paying out of pocket is the better choice for your situation.
What if you want to upgrade your drone?
Given how rapidly drone technology continues to improve, drone repairs might inherently not make sense — even on models that are one or two years old.
These days, drones like the sub-$200 DJI Neo are capable of filming 4K video. If you’re looking to repair, say, a DJI Mini 4K but it’ll cost $200 to fix it, you might just consider purchasing a brand new DJI Neo instead. The Drone Girl has plenty of guides to finding the best drones. For custom advice,
Drone Nerds has a no-risk policy when it comes to diagnosing your old drone.
“If you want to buy a new drone from us, we won’t charge a diagnosis fee for assessing your old one,” Settle said. “You can send in your drone without worrying about extra costs, and we’ll give you an honest recommendation on whether it’s worth fixing or upgrading.”
This approach gives you the freedom to explore all options without added pressure, whether you’re ready to upgrade or just want to assess your current drone’s condition.
In many cases, repairing a drone can be a smart financial decision, especially if the cost is within reason. However, it’s essential to weigh the costs, consider your protection plan, and think about future needs.
What to know about Drone Nerds Repair
(Photo courtesy of Drone Nerds)
Drone Nerds is the largest DJI Authorized Service & Repair center in the United States. Engineers are trained to diagnose and repair the entire DJI product line, providing complete confidence in the workmanship and service capabilities.
What happens during a Drone Nerds repair?
Here’s exactly what happens once you’ve shipped your damaged drone to Drone Nerds:
Upon receiving your damaged drone in the mail, the team documents its condition with photographs.
It then confirms receipt from the customer of exactly what it receives.
The drone then enters the assessment queue. (Typically, expect a turnaround time of about three days for technician assessment.)
Once a technician performs the assessment, they oversee the entire repair process. They’ll diagnose the drone, let the customer know their diagnosis, and then receive approval (or disapproval) of the repair.
Drone Nerds says it typically has repairs complete — and the drones ready for billing and shipping — within 24 hours of approval.
Throughout, customers have direct communication channels—via phone or email—to contact their assigned technician for updates or to provide any necessary information.
“The Drone Nerds team is dedicated to helping customers make the best decisions for their drone’s longevity and performance,” according to a Drone Nerds statement.“Whether looking to repair or upgrade, experts will guide you through every step of the process.”
For more information on what goes into a drone repair, reach out directly to Drone Nerds for advice on maintaining a drone investment and keeping it in the air.
Prop guards are essential accessories for drone owners, offering protection for both your drone and its surroundings. Especially if you’re flying indoors, prop guards can protect your walls or furniture from potential hits. And hey, that applies outdoors too. If you’re flying around kids, pets, other adults, or, well, really anything, prop guards add a layer of safety.
Plus, drone propeller guards can minimize the chance of the drone fully crashing from a small wall bump. With prop guards, the drone may be able to just bounce right off the wall (or whatever it has made contact with ) and continue flying.
So here’s the thing: you can buy them directly from your drone’s manufacturer (e.g. DJI and Autel), or you can buy them through third-parties. PGYTECH is one of the biggest manufacturers of third-party prop guards. Craznick also seems to come up in the prop guard scene. Though, they are most famous for their colorful, LED propellers. And there are plenty more third-part prop guard makers — many of which come and go.
But is it worth buying these off-brand drone prop guards versus going straight to the source and buying directly from the drone maker?
The big reason to go off brand is price. Here’s a comparison on price of prop guards for some of the most popular drone models, when purchased directly through the maker (e.g. DJI and Autel) versus thid-parties (e.g. PGYTECH):
Can I save money on prop guards by buying third-party?
Clearly, yes. But saving money now might not necessarily save you money, nor headache (and headache = money) in the long-run.
Here are some risks you run when you buy from a third-party drone accessory maker:
Risk of incompatibility: As is the case with really any accessory, there might be slight variations in fit or functionality. While many third-party options claim compatibility, always check product specifications carefully.
Build quality might not be up to par: Generally prop guards from the big drone makers like DJI are constructed from high-quality materials. They prioritize durability and impact resistance. For example, DJI uses high-flexural-strength material on its newest models. With third-party prop guards, quality can vary significantly. Some third-party guards use cheaper materials, affecting their longevity and protective capabilities. Those materials might also be heavier, which can negatively impact flight times.
Inferior design: Prop guards minimize impact on flight performance via aerodynamic design, but you might find that also reducing flight times. The worst-designed prop guards might even obstruct the camera’s view.
Annoying user experience: With official models, user experience also tends to be at the forefront, with features like quick-release mechanisms. For example, most DJI propeller guards feature a 2-section quick mount design that makes it easy to install and remove. That might not necessarily be the case when you buy the third-party version, which can sometimes compromise on aerodynamics for cost-effectiveness.
While third-party prop guards might offer cost savings, weigh the potential for drawbacks.
That said, there are plenty of great prop guards out there. Those highlighted above from brands like PGYTech and Dwdzey tend to get excellent reviews. Especially because they’re designed to fit specific drone models, they actually do fit the product you’re buying for. And, the quality is still high.
As is the case with nearly any drone accessory, there are some situations where buying third-party prop guards can make sense — and when it doesn’t. Here are some situations when you are better off going the third-party route:
The accessory won’t impact your warranty: Those warranty terms vary by drone, generally popping on third-party prop guards won’t impact your drone’s warranty. But a more invasive accessory, say replacing the built-in camera with another one, could. Understand your warranty terms, and the potential for voiding it, if you add products not endorsed by the manufacturer.
The reviews are good: You wouldn’t book an Airbnb with no reviews, right? So don’t buy prop guards with no reviews either. Especially given that these products come from unnamed companies, you’re best off going with one that has endorsements from drone pilots already.
The savings are high: In some of those examples in the table, the savings hover around a 50% discount. But if you’re only saving a couple bucks, the piece of mind of going with the official product might be worth it — especially given how much you already spent on the drone.
Tell me: have you had success using third-party prop guards? Or have they turned into a horror story? Share your experiences in the comments!
Registering your drone in the U.S. is essential not only to comply with Federal Aviation Administration regulations but also to avoid scams and hefty penalties.
Here’s how to register your drone properly and what you need to know to avoid legal troubles.
The who, where, and what of drone registration
So, who needs to register their drone? If your drone weighs more than 0.55 pounds (that’s 250 grams or more), you’re required by law to register it with the FAA, whether you’re flying recreationally or commercially under Part 107. Drones under 250 grams used for recreational purposes are exempt from registration. This is why drones under 250 grams are such a big deal.
Where do you go for drone registration? The only official site where you can register your drone is the FAA’s DroneZone. This site allows you to input your details and pay the $5 registration fee, ensuring you meet FAA regulations and avoid any penalties.
And what do you need for registration? Before starting the registration process, gather the following:
Physical and mailing addresses
Email address and phone number
Make and model your drone
Remote ID serial number (if applicable)
Credit or debit card for the $5 fee
Steps to register
Visit the FAA DroneZone website and create an account if you don’t already have one.
Choose your registration type: Select either Part 107 for commercial use or the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations.
Enter your information: Provide your personal information, drone specifics, and the Remote ID serial number if required.
Pay the fee: The $5 fee covers all drones you own under the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations.
Receive your registration number: You’ll get a registration number and certificate after payment. Keep a copy with you when flying.
Avoiding drone registration scams
Many scam websites mimic the FAA’s official site, charging up to $200 for drone registration—a process that should cost just $5. These sites often provide a legitimate registration number but at a steep markup, and they may misuse your data.
For example, after a quick Google search of “register your drone,” the first non-FAA site was droneregistration.com which charges $40 for drone registration.
Here’s how to spot a scam:
High fees: If a site charges more than $5, it’s not legitimate.
Multiple drone charges: The FAA’s $5 fee covers all your drones, so avoid sites that charge per drone.
False affiliations: Be cautious of sites claiming to simplify the process of being “approved” by the FAA.
The FAA advises registering only through their official DroneZone site to ensure you’re not overcharged or scammed.
Consequences of not registering your drone
Failing to register your drone can result in civil fines of up to $27,500 and criminal penalties of up to $250,000 or three years in prison. While it’s unlikely that the FAA is actively searching for unregistered drones to prosecute, if you accidentally fly in a no-fly zone or commit another violation and your drone isn’t registered, you could certainly face a hefty fine. Considering registration only costs $5, it’s not worth the risk.
The FAA considers various factors when determining fines, such as the nature of the violation, which could be anything from a minor oversight to a more intentional action. Penalties might be higher if you fly over crowds or use larger drones. The fine structure also depends on your operator category, whether you’re a commercial pilot, flight instructor, or just flying for fun. Certain violations, like interfering with wildfire efforts, could result in fines between $15,000 and $20,923 while failing to register your drone could lead to more significant penalties.
After registering your drone
Once your drone is registered, keep your certificate with you during flights. Make sure your drone is labeled with your registration number, and be ready to show your certificate to law enforcement if asked. When your registration expires (registration is valid for three years), renew it through the FAA DroneZone portal to remain compliant.
Next up in our “Ask Drone Girl” series is about how much to charge for drone services. If you have a question for Drone Girl, contact her here.
I’m a startup drone business and recently did some pro bono work for a vineyard who now wants to pay me! The only issue? I have no idea how much to charge! They’re particularly interested in an aerial view of one of their buildings that they’re gonna send to their architect to design an expansion. Any help is appreciated!
-David
Hey David,
Congrats on landing a gig as a drone pilot. Your entrepreneurship running a startup drone business must be applauded!
Now determining the right price for your drone services can be a balancing act. You want to be competitive with other pilots in the area. And you want to be fair to your client. But, you also need to cover your costs (which include not just your gear and gas, but also your time). And hey, you want to generate a profit.
Here’s a breakdown of factors to consider when setting your rates:
How to decide what to charge for aerial photography and other drone work
You shouldn’t work for free, because it wasn’t even free for you to do this work. From your gear, to the hours of work you’ve put into growing your skills, to per-project costs like gas, you should get paid back for your costs — and then some. When determining your costs, consider this:
Calculate specific costs for this project
The most straightforward way to calculate your costs is by starting with any out-of-pocket costs you’ll pay to do the project. That may include:
Travel: This includes fuel and vehicle maintenance. You might just base this off of the IRS standard mileage rate if you’re unsure of your vehicle’s specifics. In 2024, that’s 67 cents per mile.
If you have to spend the night in a hotel — or even take a flight there — factor in those costs, as well as unexpectedly travel costs like checked bag fees or ground transportation.
Permits: If you need a permit for a specific flight, calculate those fees too.
Pay-per-use software: Some software charges per use. For example, certain drone mapping software charges per map.
Time: Then, find out (or make your best estimate) of how much time the project will take. From there, consider your hourly rate. Some people already know their hourly rate (say, $200 per hour). There are all sorts of ways you can calculate this.
You might have a figure that you believe is your annual value (say, $100,000 per year). You could then calculate that in tandem with how many billable hours you can realistically execute (billable hours are generally far less than hours worked as a freelancer, given how much time you spent on unpaid administrative work). If you think you’re capable of, say, 10 billable hours per week and you work 48 weeks a year (account for vacation!), then you’d need to charge $208 per hour to reach that.
You could also calculate time in terms of opportunity cost. Say, “every hour I spend doing X work is $Y that I can’t spend doing this other job where I know I’d make that money.”
And of course, time is not just flying time, but also travel time and time spent processing the data.
Don’t overlook previous, already-paid costs
But those are hardly your only costs to consider when you calculate how much to charge for drone services! These next sets of costs are a little bit hairier to calculate, as they’re generally a one-time fee that you already paid — and they’ll be amortized across all future clients to come. That includes:
Equipment: This might include drones, cameras, batteries, and other gear.
Software: This can include image processing, flight planning, and data management software.
Insurance: Though the FAA does not require drone insurance, most drone business owners still opt for some degree of liability and equipment coverage.
Overhead: Then there’s just the general cost of running a business. That might include office space, utilities, marketing, tax software, web hosting fees and administrative costs.
It’s trickier to calculate how these fit in. You might just divide all those costs across your average number of expected clients per year. But, at least account for these costs in some capacity.
Determine your value proposition
Now it’s time to define your personal value. What sets you apart from the competition? Since it sounds like you specifically are newer and less experienced, then your value might be, well, less than someone with years of experience. An experienced pilot should up their charge for drone services versus the newbies.
But even without drone-specific experience, consider other value you can bring, including prior work experience. Some factors to roll up into your unique value proposition include:
Expertise: Do you have specialized knowledge in areas like inspections or mapping?
Equipment: High-end drones and cameras that produce superior results are more valuable than photos from a cheap camera drone. If you’ve got a DJI Inspire 3, you can probably charge more than the person trying to do the same job on a DJI Mini 4K.
Efficiency, speed and customer service: Yes, you’re allowed to charge more if you’re pleasant to work with — and you get the job done efficiently.
You can also charge more for work that’s more niche or more risky.
How to price your work as a drone pilot
Now that you understand all your own costs coupled with your value, it’s time to decide how you’ll price your drone work. Drone projects tend to run through a few different pricing models, including:
Hourly rate: Charge by the hour for your services. This is common for aerial photography and videography.
Project-based: Quote a fixed price for specific projects, such as property inspections or mapping.
Package Deals: Offer bundled services (e.g. a refresh survey every month) at a discounted rate.
Set your rates
With that, decide on how much you want to charge. You might already have a number in your head once you’ve laid out all your personal costs, but there are other ways you can set your rate:
Compare yourself to competition: Find drone companies that do similar work to what you’ll do, and price based off of them. Maybe they do work to the exact quality as yours, but they live in a lower cost of living area. You could account for that cost of living adjustment and charge slightly more. Maybe there’s a pilot in your area who does the same work but is more experienced. Charge less than them. But be careful to not completely undercut them so that you unknowingly adjust clients’ expectations to pay less (as that could hurt you in the future, too).
Understand the scope: Larger, more complex projects typically command higher rates.
You might charge more depending on the industry: A large corporate client might be willing to pay more than a small non-profit. Some drone pilots don’t widely advertise their rates, specifically so they can price based on client.
Figure out how much you want the job: Is this work you’re genuinely looking forward to doing, either because it’ll be a great addition to your portfolio, serve as a valuable learning experiencing, or might actually be fun? Or are you dreading the gig? If the latter, you might charge more (with the understand that the client might not end of hiring you).
When you might charge less for work as a drone pilot
Then there are a few other factors to consider when setting your rates around what to charge for drone services. Clients may want to negotiate, in which case start high and adjust prices down.
You might also just factor in how this gig plays into your broader life. You mentioned that this specific gig is at a vineyard. Once done flying, will you get to hang out at the winery? Will the owner treat you to a complementary wine tasting? Even if the gig necessitates an overnight stay (which of course, you’ll add to the client’s bill), can your family come with you, and you can use the trip to wine country as a much-needed getaway? If yes, you might charge less.
For example, I frequently speak at drone conferences. And, I firmly believe you must be compensated to speak at a conference. But while I generally consider cash as compensation, I sometimes make exceptions. Will they pay for my entire travels there? And if so, is it a place I want to go to anyway?
For example, when I spoke at World of Drones Congress in Brisbane, Australia, I didn’t get any cash money. But, I got a roundtrip flight from the U.S. to Australia, plus a few nights of a hotel. I’d value all of that as far higher than what I’d have charged as a standalone speaking fee for an equivalent talk in my own city, so I considered this a great deal. I am a huge Crocodile Hunter fan, so a trip to Queensland was a bucket list item!
The tl;dr: the prices you charge for drone services like aerial photography or mapping should reflect the value you bring to your clients. As you gain experience, that value will grow.
A recent influx of legislation to ban Chinese drones over data privacy — like the Countering CCP Drones Act — reflects growing concerns about the security of commercial drones and their handling of data. That’s led politicians to generate their own policy ideas around how to make commercial drones more secure.
But while bans (or even tariffs, as more moderate legislation like the DFR Act proposes) might seem like a quick fix, they bring the potential for enormous, negative side effects. Critics fear that banning what are generally far more affordable, Chinese-made drones could have an outsized, negative impact on small businesses that have tighter budgets than big corporations or government entities.
Meanwhile, many private businesses are turning to another solution that makes drone data more secure — without an outright ban.
DJI itself has sought to prove itself as a more secure solution for U.S. customers. As of June 27, 2024, DJI no longer offers U.S. operators the option to sync their flight records to DJI servers. Interestingly, the capability still remains when you fly DJI drones in regions outside the U.S.
And that’s not all. Throughout 2024, we’ve seen an uptick in solutions to fortify the security of drone data. Many such solutions come from big drone companies like DroneDeploy and AirData. Here’s a look at ways that private companies are working to make commercial drones more secure — no ban needed:
DroneDeploy introduces world’s first security firewall for commercial drones
In June 2024, San Francisco based drone software company DroneDeploy launched Dock Shield. Dock Shield is a system of network security protocols designed to work with drone docks such as the DJI Dock 1 and DJI Dock 2.
Drone docks (sometimes called drone-in-a-box) are popular systems for landing, charging and storing drones. They’re especially popular in remote places that would be annoying for a human operator to monitor all the time. These days, the best drone docks are highly advanced. They’re even capable of storing and sending data back to teams (generally over the cloud). And it’s that storing and sending of data where Dock Shield comes in so critically.
“Because the docked drone is fully autonomous with no person on site, safety and security are critical to the successful operations of the docked drone,” said Ashutosh Agrawal, a risk director at DroneDeploy. “The shield technology is one of the ways DroneDeploy is approaching concerns over Chinese technology.”
Those aforementioned network security protocols from DroneDeploy’s Dock Shield are designed to limit connections out of drone docks — including the DJI Docks — solely to trusted DroneDeploy-controlled U.S. servers. The shield works by creating a firewall. That, in turn, makes communications secure and limited to only between DroneDeploy and the drone.
This solution will help ensure that drone data arrives securely — and only at its intended destination.
In fact, though Dock Shield can be compatible with any drone, it was actually initially tailored for DJI Dock 1 and 2. DroneDeploy also said it has plans to launch a similar product for the DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise later in 2024.
Agrawal said that security had not been much of a major pain point amongst DroneDeploy customers, adding that “DroneDeploy is the most secure platform on the market.” But given the uptick in anti-China legislation and debate, DroneDeploy is iterating with solutions.
Agrawal also said that DJI drones are still highly popular amongst DJI customers.
“While there has been a lot of rhetorical change in the conversation over DJI, especially in the last year, we are still seeing wide adoption of this technology as U.S. competitors are not yet able to make drones that fulfill all use case needs,” Agrawal said.
Rather than an entirely-new, U.S.-made drone, DroneDeploy is betting that better security systems applied to DJI drones is a smarter fix.
“Firewalls are the most practical and effective solution to manage risk involved in using Chinese hardware,” he said. “Firewalls are a long-standing security solution, not some new fancy or proprietary thing, but a known and industry tested way to manage security concerns.”
AirData allows customers to upload logs without DJI’s cloud
AirData is a California-based, online drone fleet data management and real-time flight streaming platform. It allows its users to synchronize flight logs from DJI without using the DJI Cloud.
Even though DJI disabled the “Sync Flight Data” feature to the DJI cloud in its flight apps in 2024, AirData offers alternative sync options so pilots can track flight activity.
There are a few ways to do this, such as through the AirData UAV mobile app, which can directly upload flight logs from your device to AirData, bypassing DJI’s cloud. This method is straightforward and also secure, ensuring your data remains under your control. You can also manually upload logs to AirData by extracting flight logs from your drone and then uploading them through AirData’s web interface.
Trevor Hall, an AirData spokesperson, said the capability serves multiple purposes.
“Whether it’s because off privacy concerns or a more streamlined upload process, uploading logs directly to AirData via our mobile app (bypassing DJI’s servers) is often preferred by our customers,” he said. “It’s a decision that’s sometimes made by the individual user and sometimes by their employer. Our customers that are part of government agencies are especially keen to using our mobile app to upload logs.”
Other ways to make commercial drones more secure
Then there are some best practices you can impose on yourself (or your business) to make drone flights more secure. Consider these some general best practices:
Make regular firmware updates: Be diligent about promptly installing firmware updates that patch security vulnerabilities. One note: make sure you have a secure process to prevent unauthorized firmware from loading.
Tamper-proof hardware: Don’t forget physical security. Consider situations where the physical drone might get in the hands of someone else. Maybe you’re flying with a drone in checked luggage or otherwise leaving it somewhere in the open. If so, be on alert. Critical components like the flight controller and GPS unit should be tamper-proof to prevent unauthorized modifications or hardware implants. Even a simple lock on your drone case can make commercial drones more secure.
Use multi-factor authorization: It’s not just drones. All sorts of online accounts, like email, social media and, yes, drone control apps should have multi-factor authentication enabled. This prevents unauthorized access. This could involve passwords, biometrics, or hardware tokens.
By implementing a combination of these measures, then drone manufacturers, governments and drone pilots can work together to create a more secure drone ecosystem — no actual ban necessary. This will not only address national security concerns but also build public trust. Ideally, that’ll continue paving the way for wider commercial drone adoption, not fewer drones given potential bans.
Building a high school drone program can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. Drones offer a dynamic way to engage students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education, providing hands-on learning experiences that are both educational and fun.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started.
Start by identifying the goals of your drone program. Are you focusing on STEM education, preparing students for FAA Part 107 certification, or exploring career pathways in drone technology? Clear goals will help shape your curriculum and resource needs.
Additionally, consider the type of program you want to establish. It could be an after-school program that offers flexible learning opportunities, an elective course integrated into the school day, or a required class providing broad exposure to drone technology for all students.
Determining how many students will be part of the program is also crucial as it will guide your budget and purchasing decisions. As a former educator, I recommend starting small and scaling up. Find a few dedicated students and plan to meet 2-3 times a week after school. Logistics and requirements will depend on your school or district’s rules, but starting small will give you the freedom to work out the kinks.
2. Purchase the right drones for a high school drone program
Selecting the right drones is crucial. For high school programs, you’ll want drones that are durable, easy to use, and provide educational value.
The Crazyflie drone from DroneBlocks tops The Drone Girl’s list of best educational drones for a STEM program. The Crazyflie drone starts at $379, and students can learn to assemble the drone, use it to code, and more. Plus, the purchase of the drone includes a 7-day free trial of the DroneBlocks curriculum, but more on that later.
The Raspberry Pi drone kit from Drone Dojo offers the most comprehensive training tool you could possibly find for learning how to build a drone. The drone kit is $900 and includes the Raspberry Pi 4B, Pixhawk Flight Controller, Drone Frame, RC Transmitter, and Receiver, as well as video tutorials teaching you how to put them together.
Alternatively, if your drone program plans to focus more on learning to fly drones or drone photography/videography, then a beginner drone like the DJI Mini 4K might be a suitable option. You’ll lose out on the ability to teach coding, but for only $299, you’ll get a great drone for teaching the basics of flying.
3. Understand Part 107 requirements
To operate drones legally in an educational setting, you need to comply with FAA regulations. Someone involved in the program, likely the teacher, must hold a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107 license).
If you are an educator on a budget (aka every educator) check out the FAA’s free Part 107 UAS online training course. However, this tool is a supplemental tool and won’t cover everything found on the Part 107 test.
The Part 107 requirements include being at least 16 years old and passing an aeronautical knowledge test at an FAA-approved testing center. This can also be a great curriculum component, offering students the chance to earn their Part 107 certification once they turn 16. Drone Pilot Ground School partners with schools across various programs, offering their program and curriculum to students.
Additionally, Drone Pilot Ground School offers scholarships for high school aspiring commercial drone pilots. They offer around 100 scholarships each semester for those interested in becoming FAA-certified.
When choosing the right curriculum for your program, consider factors such as the length of the course, budget, goals, and your student’s prior knowledge.
You may need to search a little further than Teachers Pay Teachers (which has limited drone-related lesson plan options), but reputable sources are out there.
DroneBlocks is one of Drone Girl’s favorite all-inclusive drone education curriculums. STEM educators can purchase the curriculum for $495 per year (hardware not included) and include over 40 courses covering a range of topics such as advanced programming in Python and JavaScript, drag-and-drop block coding, access to a drone simulator, and more.
For educators on a tight budget, Khan Academy is a free online site with lessons, exercises, and quizzes. Their “Crash Course in Indoor Flying Robots” is a great place to start.
5. Engage students and parents
Engaging students, parents, and the community is key to the success of your drone program. Start discussing your plan with everyone you can. Through these connections, you might find a parent eager to volunteer or a community member who works with drones.
Once the program is up and running, communicate regularly with parents about program goals, progress, and achievements. Show them the practical applications and benefits for their children.
6. Secure funding and resources
Funding can be a major hurdle. Explore various funding sources such as school budgets, grants, sponsorships, and fundraising.
DonorsChoose is a great fundraising tool, and there are often anonymous donors looking to support STEAM programs.
There are many STEAM grant opportunities available, but navigating grant writing can be tricky. Depending on your school or district, there may be someone who specializes in grant writing. Try to connect with that person or anyone who has experience.
One of the best things about starting your program is no pressure of standardized tests. A drone program allows you and your students to learn in a stress-free environment.
So, embrace the opportunity to teach high school students about drones and all the benefits they offer.
The drone industry is buzzing with potential, and launching your own drone business can be a way to work for yourself — bringing in the benefits of no boss and flexible hours — and perhaps more importantly, to make big money.
But while there are certainly many drone pilots earning six-figure salaries, launching a drone business isn’t for everyone. You need to have the right set of skills, and finding your niche can feel overwhelming. Plus, there are plenty of legalities to navigate, and there’s no shortage of costs involved, from buying the right equipment to understanding drone insurance.
This guide will equip you with the essential knowledge to launch your drone business and soar to success.
Most countries have their own set of regulations for commercial drone use. If you’re launching a drone business in the U.S., familiarize yourself with the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Part 107 certification process. If flying outside the U.S., understand the equivalent regulations (e.g. getting a drone pilot certificate from Transport Canada).
Get your Part 107 certificate
Under Part 107, operating a drone for business purposes in the U.S. without proper licensing is actually illegal. To get a drone pilot’s license in the US., you must pass a written test, which ensures you understand subject areas like airspace classifications (controlled vs. uncontrolled airspace) and restrictions (like no-fly zones near airports).
To take the test, you must be at least 16 years old. From there, you’ll encounter 60 multiple-choice questions. You’ll need to score at least 70% to pass.
The FAA offers online resources and in-person workshops to help you navigate the certification process. That said, I recommend enrolling in an online Part 107 drone training course to completely cover everything you need to know. These courses also typically include practice tests so you ensure you go into the test prepared (and don’t have to pay another test fee should you fail and need to retake it!).
2. Know potential other legalities
When you fly as a commercial drone pilot under Part 107, you’re subject to a number of rules. For many common drone flights, you’ll need a waiver or airspace authorization — you can’t just fly whenever you want. For example, here are a few of the following types of drone flights that require you to get a waiver in the U.S.:
Certain flights from or over a moving vehicle or aircraft
Certain flights at night
Certain flights over people
Flights beyond your visual line of sight
Flights in certain airspace
Getting a waiver can often require hiring a lawyer (or having some legal know-how to fill out the waiver yourself). Learn more about Part 107 waivers.
3. Find your niche
Once you’re certified and no what sorts of flights you can and can’t do, it’s time to find out where you want to specialize. With drones, it’s better to be a master of one field than a jack of all trades. After all, drones are used for fields including photography, mapping, inspections, delivery, spraying — for industries including Hollywood films, agriculture, construction, oil and gas, and more.
Among the easiest fields to break into is real estate photography. After all aerial real estate photos can really help sell homes — especially lavish estates with impressive outdoor features like pools or sprawling land. Even indoor drones offer compelling fly through videos that go a long way in selling homes. But given the ease, it’s also a competitive area.
Thus, it can make more sense to pursue high-growth, less-competitive sectors like:
Industrial inspections: Inspect wind turbines, power lines, and other hard-to-reach infrastructure for damage or wear, saving companies time and money on maintenance.
Precision agriculture: Assist farmers in monitoring crop health, optimizing irrigation, and applying targeted pesticides or fertilizers, leading to increased yields and sustainability.
Construction progress tracking and mapping: Capture detailed aerial data to track construction progress, identify potential delays, and create 3D models for improved project management.
Search and rescue operations (partner with qualified organizations): Partner with certified search and rescue teams to locate missing persons in disaster zones or difficult terrain, potentially saving lives.
Deciding which niche to settle on can vary based on factors including your own interests, coupled with your region and startup costs. If you live near farmland, then agriculture can inherently make more sense. If you’re in Texas, you might have better luck landing oil and gas clients.
It also depends on how much money you’re willing to spend on gear and training upfront. You could get away with taking aerial real estate photos using a camera drone under $1,000, with minimal training aside from a Part 107 certification.
But, it’s still money you might not have as a small business upfront.
From there, you’ll need more expensive drones that are capable of carrying advanced sensors, such as thermal cameras. You’ll also likely need drone mapping software, which also generally isn’t cheap.
4. Plan your business structure
With a better idea of the work you’d like to do, it’s time to write a business plan. With that include current budgets and financial projections. Check out NerdWallet’s guide to writing a business plan and creating a business budget.
You’ll also need to settle on your business structure. The best business structure varies by the work you’re doing and how large you anticipating growing.
For sole proprietorships, the start-up process is simple, but you face unlimited personal liability for any debts or lawsuits.
Partnerships offer shared ownership and profits, but liability is also shared.
Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) provide a balance, shielding your personal assets while offering some flexibility in management structure.
Corporations offer the strongest liability protection but come with more complex regulations and tax implications.
Consider factors like liability exposure, ownership structure, and tax goals when selecting the business structure that best suits your drone business.
If you’re not filing as a sole proprietor, then you may need to get a federal tax ID.
Consider a business bank account
Though not required for sole proprietors, it can make sense to open a business bank account so you keep your business and personal finances separate. Among the biggest benefits is simply making it easier to deduct business expenses come tax time.
Get a business credit card
Even if you don’t have an entirely new business bank account, applying for a business credit card almost certainly makes sense. Again, this makes it easy to separate business and personal expenses.
If you need to finance office supplies, drone gear and other expenses (more on that later), a business credit card can make for an easy way to do that. Plus, business credit cards also typically offer benefits on business spending that can get you money back, or at least net you with rewards like airline frequent flyer miles.
The Ink Business Cash Credit Card is great because it has no annual fee, yet it offers generous rewards. Most notably, it earns 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent each year at office supply stores, on internet cable and phone services. It also offers 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent each year at gas stations and restaurants. All those things can be huge business spending areas, making for a ripe opportunity to earn rewards.
5. Buy the right drone gear
The Sony Airpeak S1 drone
Upon choosing a niche, setting up your business and perhaps even having a new credit card, it’s time to buy the right gear. The best drone for a Hollywood filmmaker is not the same as the best drone for flying over crops spraying herbicides.
Typically, the more advanced the operation, the higher you can charge for your drone flying services. Then again, executing an advanced project might require you to have a more expensive drone.
DroneDeploy, which is one of the world’s biggest drone mapping software companies, shared a list of the top 10 most-used drones among its customers in 2024. Those are:
Clearly most of those drones cost many thousands of dollars. The most popular drone among its customers, the DJI Mavic 3E is designed specifically for industrial, corporate, and first responder applications, and it costs $4,000.
When picking the best drone for your business, consider factors like payload capacity, image quality, and weather resistance. And that’s not the only hardware cost to account for. Don’t forget spare batteries, propellers, and a reliable carrying case.
Financing a drone can make sense, but it can also get you into financial hot water if you’re not prepared to take on thousands of dollars in debt. Only buy expensive gear if you have a solid business plan to pay it off.
6. Register your drones
Once you have the right drone, it’s time to register. After all, most countries require you register your drone. Again, exact processes vary by country, so check with the local aviation authority. If flying for business purposes in the U.S., you must register your drone with the FAA. There’s a small, $5 registration fee, and registration is valid for three years.
Operating a drone business comes with inherent risks. Accidents can happen, and even a minor mishap can damage your expensive drone equipment. Liability concerns are also a factor – if your drone causes property damage or injury during operation, you could be facing significant financial repercussions.
Though the FAA does not legally require drone insurance to fly in the U.S. drone insurance helps mitigate these risks. And some other countries DO require drone insurance.
With drone insurance, you generally encounter two types:
Hull Coverage: This protects your drone itself from physical damage caused by accidents, crashes, theft, or even fire. Hull coverage policies typically offer different coverage levels, allowing you to choose the level of protection that best suits your needs and budget. Consider factors like the value of your drone, the replacement cost, and the specific risks associated with your chosen niche when selecting a hull coverage plan.
Liability Coverage: This protects you from financial responsibility if your drone causes property damage or bodily injury during operation. Imagine a scenario where your drone malfunctions and crashes into a car or injures a bystander. Without liability coverage, you could be held personally liable for the damages incurred. Liability insurance provides a vital financial safety net, covering legal fees and settlements associated with such incidents.
There are all sorts of drone insurance providers. Lately though, I recommend SkyWatch.ai., which is an aviation-focused insurance policy offering flexible plans (hourly, daily and monthly).
Connect with other drone pilots in your area, not as competitors, but as colleagues. Share knowledge, resources, and collaborate on projects that require multiple pilots or specialized skills.
Build relationships with local businesses that could benefit from your drone services, such as construction companies, real estate agencies, or agricultural firms. Attend drone industry events and conferences to network with potential clients, stay updated on the latest trends, and learn from experienced drone professionals.
9. Build your brand
There’s so much that goes into building your brand beyond what one blog post can cover — and the steps to build one brand can be completely different than another. A real estate agent might rely heavily on local Instagram marketing. Meanwhile, a B2B business might be better off reaching out to clients on LinkedIn.
10. Plan for profit
How much money can you charge as a drone pilot? Just as a burrito costs more in San Francisco versus in Cabo san Lucas, prices for drone piloting can vary by region. They also can value based on work involved and your own skill.
Develop a pricing strategy that considers your operational costs, the value you deliver to clients, and market competitiveness.
To do that, research competitor rates. From there, offer competitive packages that cater to different project budgets and needs. Consider offering hourly rates, fixed project fees, or retainer agreements for ongoing services. Factor in the cost of software subscriptions for editing photos or videos, insurance premiums, and any marketing expenses you incur.
11. Stay up-to-date
Knowledge is power. And since the drone industry is evolving rapidly, your knowledge also must evolve. Subscribe to industry publications, attend workshops, and stay informed about regulatory changes and technological advancements. Yes, that includes subscribing to this website, right here!
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By following these steps and fostering a passion for safe, skilled drone operation, you’ll be well on your way to launching a thriving drone business and taking your place in the ever-expanding world of aerial innovation.
What do you wish you knew ahead of launching a drone business? Share your top drone business tips in the comments below!
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