G+_Eric Kolesnikovas Posted January 30, 2016 Share Posted January 30, 2016 Anyone have a link / information about legally flying drones for commercial use? Let's say as simple as surveying for a contractor or insurance company or just photos / video, any idea of the cost of licences etc..? Is there a market for independent drone operators that would offer services like these? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
G+_Eric Kolesnikovas Posted January 30, 2016 Author Share Posted January 30, 2016 Would probably need good insurance also. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
G+_Eric Kolesnikovas Posted January 30, 2016 Author Share Posted January 30, 2016 So looks like a 333 exception would be required or Special Airworthiness Certification but are there any drones currently that can qualify for a SAC? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
G+_Eric Kolesnikovas Posted January 30, 2016 Author Share Posted January 30, 2016 Anyone making gass powerd drones or helicopters? Would they be more reliable / airworthy and have longer flight times? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
G+_Jeff Brand Posted January 30, 2016 Share Posted January 30, 2016 At this time, a 333 exemption would let the aircraft be eligible for commercial use. The operator would still need to file a COA (Certificate of Authorization) for a given flight and the operator would need to have an airmen's certificate. The 333 exemption process takes ~120 days. If you're seriouos about it, file it ASAP and hope that new rules are put into effect sooner. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
G+_Jeff Brand Posted January 30, 2016 Share Posted January 30, 2016 A client used this site to file their 333 exemption. http://www.acesdeals.biz/store/p160/FAA_EXEMPTION_333.html They currently charge $149 but he did it during an $89 sale. The "120 days" passed last week, so he should hear something very soon. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
G+_Eric Kolesnikovas Posted January 30, 2016 Author Share Posted January 30, 2016 So the 333 isn't that big of a deal but the license is, hopefully the FAA gets special drone licences soon Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
G+_Jeff Brand Posted January 30, 2016 Share Posted January 30, 2016 If you ever plan to fly for non-commercial purposes, get the online license. At least you won't be grounded from practicing while you go through the commercial process. The 333 is "easy" to file - especially if you follow previous submissions, and have a common airframe like a Phantom or Inspire. But then you have to wait... You're also on the FAA's radar should you do anything to break the law. If you're up for the legal fees, you could attempt to follow standard procedures, track maintenance, establish flight plans, and all of the other "responsible practices" and if they come after you for commercial operation by an unlicensed operator then you can counter-sue for arbitrary and capricious behaviors related to their rule-making and enforcement. Namely, the FAA is preventing you from conducting business through their inaction/missed deadline for new rules as of Sept 30, 2015. If you do, let me know. I'd like to watch the case closely. :) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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