UAV Pilot Licensing: Since my purchase of a DJI Phantom drone I've wondered if I should invest in the time, energy and money to get a license.Yesterday, while researching the subject...

The Watcher

Since my purchase of a DJI Phantom drone I've wondered if I should invest in the time, energy and money to get a license.Yesterday, while researching the subject, I come across this article.

https://www.marketwatch.com/story/exclusive-only-one-drone-pilot-has-ever-been-busted-for-flying-without-a-licensehe-got-a-warning-2018-02-08

mrjcall Loc: Woodfin, NC

The Watcher wrote:

Since my purchase of a DJI Phantom drone I've wondered if I should invest in the time, energy and money to get a license.Yesterday, while researching the subject, I come across this article.

https://www.marketwatch.com/story/exclusive-only-one-drone-pilot-has-ever-been-busted-for-flying-without-a-licensehe-got-a-warning-2018-02-08

State and local law enforcement are slow to get up to speed on the FAA rules/regs. There is a concerted educational effort underway by law enforcement, but for the moment, the FAA requirements are still a bit of a non-starter for them. As drone accidents increase, and you can be sure they will, law enforcement will begin to pay more attention. In the meantime, it is our responsibility as drone operators/hobbyists, to become as informed as possible so we don't go around unintentionally making people angry...... If you're just playing with drones, licensing isn't necessary, but both licensed and unlicensed operators are required to follow the exact same FAA rules...... 😎

jayd Loc: Central Florida, East coast

You have to follow the exact same rules attaining privilege to fly in restricted areas is easier for a recreational pilot than it is for a part 107 pilot a part 107 pilot has to acquire a waiver which is roughly a 90-day plus or minus request of which I've had one out for almost a year with no response. a recreational just has to call the tower and faa and inquire and they can fly. keep in mind that to become a perceived professional commercial pilot all you have to do is take a picture and use it in the business where it can make money or benefit of business and you become a professional pilot and obligated to attain the part 107 certification

mrjcall Loc: Woodfin, NC

jayd wrote:

You have to follow the exact same rules attaining ... (show quote)

Waivers don't take anywhere near a year to get IF you're going to get one. You've either done it incorrectly or it has somehow gotten lost on a desk somewhere. Have you followed up to see what's up? Be interested to hear the outcome since I am applying for one this weekend to allow me to fly within 5 miles of a helo pad at our local hospital.

Irvingite Charles Loc: Irving, Tx

The Watcher wrote:

Since my purchase of a DJI Phantom drone I've wondered if I should invest in the time, energy and money to get a license.Yesterday, while researching the subject, I come across this article.

https://www.marketwatch.com/story/exclusive-only-one-drone-pilot-has-ever-been-busted-for-flying-without-a-licensehe-got-a-warning-2018-02-08

Personally, I'm not ever going to fly my drone commercially or for money, so Part 107 can stay far away from me. Don't need or want it.

Just one persons opinion.

Charles

mrjcall Loc: Woodfin, NC

Irvingite Charles wrote:

Personally, I'm not ever going to fly my drone commercially or for money, so Part 107 can stay far away from me. Don't need or want it.

Just one persons opinion.

Charles

Most don't need licensing because images/video probably will never be sold. Still though, you're required to be fully aware of and operate your drone with full knowledge of FAA rules/regs. As drone use multiplies, it will become more and more important.

Irvingite Charles Loc: Irving, Tx

mrjcall wrote:

Most don't need licensing because images/video probably will never be sold. Still though, you're required to be fully aware of and operate your drone with full knowledge of FAA rules/regs. As drone use multiplies, it will become more and more important.

I think we all know that.

mrjcall Loc: Woodfin, NC

mrjcall wrote:

Waivers don't take anywhere near a year to get IF you're going to get one. You've either done it incorrectly or it has somehow gotten lost on a desk somewhere. Have you followed up to see what's up? Be interested to hear the outcome since I am applying for one this weekend to allow me to fly within 5 miles of a helo pad at our local hospital.

As a follow up to this post, I've had direct and almost immediate contact with my local hospital emergency rescue helo ops. They indicate that I have no issues operating on the periphery of the 5 mile radius of the helo pad. Anyone's good faith effort to reach out in these circumstances is a good thing and fosters respect for those of us trying to operate photographic drones within the FAA rules/regs.