A red and black logo for phoenix drone pros.

Phoenix Drone Pros

Blog

phoenixdronepros • April 7, 2023

Choosing A Drone Pilot


If you're looking to hire a drone pilot, there are a few things you should consider to ensure you get the best possible service.

A person is holding a remote control in their hands.

Drones are becoming increasingly popular for a variety of uses, from aerial photography and videography to surveying and inspection. As a result, the demand for drone pilots is on the rise. If you're looking to hire a drone pilot, there are a few things you should consider to ensure you get the best possible service.


Certification and Licensing

The first thing you should look for when hiring a drone pilot is certification and licensing. In the United States, drone pilots are required to have a remote pilot certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This certificate shows that the pilot has passed an aeronautical knowledge test and is authorized to fly a drone for commercial purposes. It's important to ensure that any pilot you hire has this certification, as it shows that they have the necessary training and knowledge to operate a drone safely and legally.


Experience

Experience is also an important factor to consider when choosing a drone pilot. You want someone who has a track record of successful flights and has experience flying in various environments and conditions. Look for a pilot who has experience in the specific type of work you need done. For example, if you need aerial photography or videography, look for a pilot who has experience in that area.


Equipment

The equipment a drone pilot uses is also important. Look for a pilot who has high-quality equipment that is well-maintained. The drone should be equipped with a high-resolution camera and other necessary tools such as a GPS system and obstacle avoidance sensors. This will ensure that you get high-quality footage and that the pilot can fly safely in any environment.


Insurance

It's important to ensure that any drone pilot you hire has liability insurance. This will protect you in the event that there is damage to property or injury to people during the flight. Make sure that the insurance policy covers commercial drone operations and that it provides adequate coverage for your needs.


References and Reviews

Before hiring a drone pilot, it's a good idea to ask for references or read reviews from previous clients. This will give you an idea of the pilot's professionalism, reliability, and quality of work. Look for pilots who have positive reviews and references from clients in similar industries or with similar needs to yours.


Communication

Communication is key when working with a drone pilot. You want someone who is responsive, clear, and easy to work with. Look for a pilot who is willing to discuss your needs and expectations and who can provide regular updates on the progress of the project. Make sure that the pilot is willing to work with you to ensure that you get the results you need.


Price

Price is always a consideration when hiring any type of service. While you don't want to skimp on quality, you also don't want to pay more than you need to. Look for a drone pilot who offers competitive pricing for their services. However, be wary of pilots who offer prices that seem too good to be true, as this may be a sign of low-quality equipment or lack of experience.


Specializations

Depending on your needs, you may want to look for a drone pilot who specializes in a particular type of service. For example, if you need a drone pilot for agricultural purposes, you may want to look for someone who specializes in crop monitoring or mapping. If you need a drone pilot for inspection purposes, you may want to look for someone who specializes in building or infrastructure inspections. Specialized pilots may have additional training or certifications in their area of expertise, which can be valuable for ensuring that you get the best possible service.


Availability

It's important to ensure that the drone pilot you hire is available when you need them. Ask about their availability and schedule to ensure that they can accommodate your needs. If you have a tight deadline or need the service done at a specific time, make sure that the pilot is available and willing to work within your timeframe.


Contract and Payment Terms

Before hiring a drone pilot, make sure that you have a clear understanding of the contract and payment terms. Review the contract carefully to ensure that it covers all the necessary details, such as the scope of work, deliverables, deadlines, and payment terms. Make sure that the payment terms are clear and that you understand when and how payments will be made. If you have any questions or concerns about the contract or payment terms, don't hesitate to ask the pilot for clarification.


Safety Procedures

Safety should always be a top priority when it comes to drone operations. Before hiring a drone pilot, ask them about their safety procedures and protocols. They should be able to provide you with a detailed plan on how they will ensure the safety of people and property during the flight. Look for pilots who take safety seriously and have a thorough understanding of the risks involved with drone operations.


Local Regulations and Permissions

Drone regulations and permissions can vary depending on your location and the type of work you need to be done. It's important to ensure that any drone pilot you hire is familiar with the local regulations and has the necessary permissions to operate a drone for commercial purposes. They should be able to provide you with evidence of their permissions and comply with all the relevant regulations.


Post-Processing and Editing

If you need aerial footage or photos, you may also want to consider the post-processing and editing services offered by the drone pilot. Look for pilots who have experience with post-processing and editing software such as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom. They should be able to provide you with high-quality images and footage that have been edited and optimized for your specific needs.


Customer Service

Finally, customer service is an important factor to consider when choosing a drone pilot. Look for pilots who are responsive, professional, and easy to work with. They should be willing to answer your questions, provide regular updates on the project, and work with you to ensure that you get the results you need. Good customer service can make a big difference in the success of your project and the overall satisfaction with the service.

Conclusion


In conclusion, hiring a drone pilot requires careful consideration of several factors. By considering the pilot's certification and licensing, experience, equipment, insurance, references and reviews, communication, price, specializations, availability, contract and payment terms, safety procedures, local regulations and permissions, post-processing and editing, and customer service, you can ensure that you choose the best possible pilot for your needs. Take the time to research your options and ask questions to ensure that you get the best possible service and achieve your project goals.


Hiring a drone pilot can be a great way to get high-quality aerial footage, photos, or data for your project. By considering the factors listed above, you can ensure that you choose a pilot who is qualified, experienced, and reliable. Take the time to research your options and ask questions to ensure that you get the best possible service for your needs. With the right drone pilot, you can achieve your project goals and get the results you need. If I can be of any further help,
contact me directly , Robert Biggs, owner and drone pilot of Phoenix Drone Pros.

By Robert Biggs March 17, 2025
Colleen, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin? The journey of Phoenix Drone Pros began when Robert Biggs, a tech enthusiast and avid photographer, first laid eyes on drone technology. Fascinated by the potential of capturing breathtaking imagery from the skies, Robert delved deep into the world of drones, honing his skills and mastering the art of aerial photography and videography. In 2015, with a keen eye for innovation and a drive to share his passion with the world, Robert officially established Phoenix Drone Pros. The name “Phoenix” symbolizes rebirth and renewal and reflects the soaring capabilities of the drones that would soon take flight under his expert guidance. From the outset, Robert set out to create a company that would stand apart from the competition by offering unmatched expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and personalized service. He envisioned Phoenix Drone Pros as a one-stop solution for businesses seeking exceptional aerial imagery, whether for real estate, construction, search and rescue, cinematography, or any other industry that could benefit from a new perspective. Fast-forward to today, Phoenix Drone Pros is expanding in its 10th year of business in Franchising. Colleen Biggs, Robert’s devoted wife, brings her heart and expertise to this journey. With over 18 years in the Franchise Industry, she has been a steadfast advocate for franchisees, guiding them through every step of launching their businesses. From territory analysis and staffing to marketing, lease negotiations, training, and leadership development, Colleen has been there, helping others realize their dreams. Her experiences during challenging times in 2001 and 2008 have equipped her with the skills to build resilient, recession-proof businesses. Colleen’s passion has always been rooted in supporting franchisees and ensuring their success. Through her journey, she learned valuable lessons about what works and what doesn’t, always prioritizing transparency and honesty. At Phoenix Drone Pros, we embody these values, nurturing a community where our franchisees feel supported, valued, and empowered to thrive. Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way? Like any business, our journey has been shaped by both successes and setbacks—each one a valuable learning experience. When we first started, drones were a relatively new and misunderstood technology. Back then, it wasn’t uncommon to face unexpected challenges, like having a drone shot out of the sky while filming a property or dealing with upset neighbors convinced we were invading their privacy. Those early days taught us the importance of educating our clients and the public about how drones are used and the value they bring. Over time, as awareness and acceptance of drone technology grew, so did our business. We started by working with residential real estate agents, capturing stunning aerial views that helped homes sell faster. But as we refined our skills and invested in cutting-edge equipment, new opportunities emerged. Today, we’re proud to work on much larger-scale projects, partnering with solar farms, construction companies, and commercial real estate firms to deliver professional-grade aerial data and visuals. Each of these “bumps in the road” taught us resilience, adaptability, and the importance of clear communication. By overcoming early misconceptions, we’ve built a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and delivering exceptional results. These challenges didn’t just shape our business—they strengthened it, allowing us to soar to new heights. Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others? Phoenix Drone Pros: Elevating Your Vision from the Sky At Phoenix Drone Pros, we specialize in delivering high-quality drone services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. With a team of experienced and FAA-licensed pilots, cutting-edge technology, and a passion for innovation, we provide stunning aerial footage, comprehensive inspections, and a variety of other drone solutions. What We Do Our services span a wide range of industries, from commercial real estate and raw land development to solar inspections, weddings, and even search and rescue missions. Whether you’re a homeowner needing a roof inspection or a business owner seeking captivating aerial content, we bring expertise, precision, and creativity to every project. What Sets Us Apart What makes Phoenix Drone Pros stand out is our unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Our advanced drone technology allows us to capture areas that are often hard to reach, delivering detailed and accurate visuals that empower our clients to make informed decisions. We pride ourselves on offering:
What Are the Risks of Having an In-House Drone Pilot Flying Your Construction Sites?
By Robert Biggs January 2, 2025
What Are the Risks of Having an In-House Drone Pilot Flying Your Construction Sites?
Drone Solar Farm inspections
By Robert Biggs August 23, 2024
Drone Solar Farm Inspections with a Thermal Camera
Drone thermal cameras for search and rescue
By Robert Biggs August 23, 2024
Drone Thermal Cameras for Search and Rescue: A Game-Changer in Saving Lives
A man in a yellow vest is sitting in the back of a truck holding a camera.
By Robert Biggs June 20, 2024
Using Drones to Locate Lost Dogs with Thermal Cameras: Pros and Cons
A man is standing in a parking lot looking at a drone flying in the sky.
By Robert Biggs June 12, 2024
Is Owning a Drone Franchise Right For You? As a drone enthusiast with a knack for business, you could turn your hobby into a profitable and fulfilling career.
A man is sitting in the back of a phoenix drone pros truck, Photo by Phoenix Drone Pros, Robert Biggs
By Robert Biggs February 29, 2024
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore why hiring Robert Biggs as your drone pilot in Phoenix, Arizona, is the ultimate choice for unlocking the full potential of aerial imagery.
Photo by Phoenix Drone Pros, Robert Biggs, A man is standing next to a truck in a parking lot
By Robert Biggs February 22, 2024
Before you take flight on your entrepreneurial journey, it's essential to consider the path that will lead you to the greatest success. Should you strike out on your own and start a drone company from scratch, or is there a smarter, more strategic route to achieving your goals?
Photo by Phoenix Drone Pros, Robert Biggs, An aerial view of a city at night with lots of buildings and cars.
By Robert Biggs February 2, 2024
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore not just the marvels of drone photography in Phoenix but why choosing Phoenix Drone Pros is the key to unlocking the full potential of drone photos and videos for your project.
Photo by Phoenix Drone Pros, Robert Biggs, A man in a yellow vest with the word pilot on it
By Robert Biggs January 25, 2024
In this blog, we invite you to step into the shoes of a drone photographer and explore the highs and challenges of capturing stunning aerial shots.
More Posts
Share by: