The fact that you’re reading this means you are more than likely thinking about acquiring your PfCO (permission for commercial operations), so you are already on the right track to becoming a commercial drone pilot. In this article, we’ll detail the benefits you can expect once you’ve attained your PfCO and how you can reap the rewards of your investment.
First things first: Why do I need a permission for commercial operations (PfCO)?
According to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), if you plan to fly your drone for your own or someone else’s financial gain, it is a requirement that you attain a PfCO in order to ensure that you are operating safely and in accordance to UK air regulations. – It isn’t quite as simple as buying a drone from your local electronics store and away you go! Don’t let this hold you back though, as those who attain their permission for commercial operations see huge benefits almost instantly.
The Benefits
Make money operating commercially
Once you’ve passed your CAA course, you will be able to legally charge for your drone services. As a result, you will be listed on the CAA website as an approved drone operator. – It’s now time to start making some money! The beauty of becoming a commercial drone pilot is that you can easily work ‘on the side’ and grow your customer base until you are ready to take the plunge and dedicate all of your working time to your new career venture.
Become a better drone pilot
You’ll pick up a whole host of drone flying tips from your fellow coursemates and expert trainers on your CAA course. The COPTRZ CAA course includes modules such as meteorology, navigation, flight planning and airmanship. You’ll be a drone flying pro in no time, and your new customers will be the first to notice.
Get ahead of the curve
The commercial drone industry is growing at a phenomenal rate as more industries capitalise on the advancements in drone technology. From originally being classed as a ‘gimmick’, drones have gone mainstream and are now a key piece of equipment in several industries including Media, Surveying, Inspection and Emergency Services. One thing that has become apparent since their introduction; the need for more commercial drone pilots. Now is the time to become CAA approved and get ahead of the curve.
Find your niche
The sooner you get ahead in the world of commercial drones, the sooner you’ll find your niche and be able to become an expert in a specific field. (Think big fish in a small pond rather than a small fish in a big pond). At this point, it’s much easier to price your work higher as you become the ‘go-to person’. Early attendees of the COPTRZ CAA course are now starting to hone in on specific industries and are reaping the rewards. There has been a significant increase in drone pilots specialising in surveying, media and inspection particularly. This is further evidenced in the COPTRZ annual report, ‘Eyes on the Sky’ which outlined the key industries expected to benefit from commercial drones.
Choose the right training provider for your PfCO
The importance of choosing the right training provider cannot be underestimated. If you are at the start of your commercial drone flying career, choosing a provider who can offer you solid business advice will stand you in good stead to hit the ground running.
At COPTRZ, we pride ourselves on not only developing you into a safe, accredited pilot but also developing your drone and business knowledge. How do we do this? It’s simple, all graduates of the COPTRZ CAA Training Course receive a complimentary invite to the exclusive ‘Making Money from Drones’ Seminar.
In addition to your NQE Recommendation, COPTRZ can also separately provide you with an academically registered qualification under OFQUAL (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) as a Level 4 award. That means if you choose COPTRZ as your NQE, you’ll have the option to receive a vocational Level 4 award recognised across the board by employers in many sectors. This represents a standard between an A Level and a degree (ONC/HNC level). This qualification is an additional extra.
Contact us today to find out how we can help you become CAA approved.
Download Our FREE RPC-L1 Guide
Understand everything you need to know about moving towards commercial drone operations with our RPC-L1 guide.
- Understand what RPC-L1 is and who it is for
- Learn how the CAA transition impacts operators and training routes
- Get a clear breakdown of requirements, costs and next steps
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