Drone Pilot Licence: 20 Key Benefits of Getting Certified
The demand for skilled drone operators has skyrocketed in recent years. Whether it’s in film, real estate, construction, or agriculture, drones are becoming an essential tool for professionals across industries. But to unlock the full potential of drone technology and ensure you’re operating legally, you need to obtain a drone pilot licence.
In Australia, a drone pilot licence, known as a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL), is required for anyone wanting to operate drones commercially. At Flying Glass, we specialise in helping individuals and organisations get certified through our comprehensive drone training programs. A licence not only ensures legal compliance but opens up a world of career possibilities and advantages that make it an essential step for any aspiring drone pilot.
In this post, we’ll explore the 20 key benefits of obtaining a drone pilot licence—from legal protections to career advancements and everything in between.
1. Legal Compliance and Peace of Mind
First and foremost, having a drone pilot licence ensures that you’re operating legally. In Australia, any commercial drone operation (whether you’re getting paid or flying drones over 2 kg) requires a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) issued by CASA. Without a licence, you could face fines or penalties, especially when flying in restricted areas or near controlled airspace.
With a licence, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your operations are fully compliant with CASA’s regulations, allowing you to focus on your work without worrying about legal issues.
2. Expanded Career Opportunities in Multiple Industries
One of the biggest advantages of holding a drone pilot licence is the ability to explore a wide range of career paths. Licensed drone operators are in high demand in industries like:
- Film and TV: Capture stunning aerial shots for productions.
- Real Estate: Provide high-quality marketing content for properties.
- Agriculture: Use drones to monitor crops and manage land.
- Construction: Perform aerial inspections of sites and infrastructure.
A licence gives you the credibility and legal authority to work in these lucrative fields, opening doors to both freelance and full-time employment opportunities.
3. High-Paying Job Opportunities
A drone pilot licence not only broadens your career prospects but also increases your earning potential. Licensed drone pilots can charge higher rates than unlicensed operators due to their legal certification and technical expertise. Industries like real estate, film, and infrastructure are willing to pay top dollar for skilled and certified drone operators who can deliver professional-grade results.
At Flying Glass, our training program is designed to help you capitalise on these opportunities, giving you the skills and knowledge needed to command top rates in your field.
4. The Ability to Fly Drones Over 2kg
Without a drone pilot licence, you’re limited to flying drones that weigh under 2 kg for recreational purposes. However, many professional-grade drones used in film, real estate, and agriculture weigh more than 2 kg due to their advanced camera systems and extended battery life.
With an RePL, you’ll be able to operate these larger drones, giving you access to more complex and high-end projects. Whether it’s flying an Inspire 3 for a commercial shoot or using a heavy-lift drone for agricultural mapping, a licence expands the range of tools at your disposal.
5. Access to Controlled Airspace
Many of the most desirable filming and commercial locations, especially in cities like Sydney, are located in controlled airspace. This includes areas near airports, CBDs, and government buildings, where unlicensed drone operators are prohibited from flying.
With a drone pilot licence, you can apply for CASA approvals to fly in these restricted zones, allowing you to work on high-profile projects that are off-limits to recreational pilots. Our training at Flying Glass prepares you for operating in complex airspaces, ensuring that you have the knowledge to obtain the necessary approvals.
6. Enhanced Flight Safety and Knowledge
Safety is paramount when flying drones, especially in populated areas or near critical infrastructure. A drone pilot licence equips you with the knowledge and skills to operate safely and responsibly. You’ll learn about aviation regulations, weather conditions, emergency procedures, and how to avoid potential hazards during flight.
At Flying Glass, our RePL course covers all aspects of flight safety, ensuring that you’re fully prepared to handle any situation that may arise during your operations.
7. Boosted Credibility with Clients and Employers
When clients or employers see that you hold a drone pilot licence, it immediately boosts your credibility as a professional. A licence demonstrates that you’ve undergone the necessary training and are committed to operating safely and legally. This can give you an edge over unlicensed competitors and help you secure higher-paying jobs with reputable clients.
In industries like film and TV, where safety and compliance are critical, having an RePL sets you apart as a trusted professional who can deliver top-quality results.
8. Access to More Complex Projects
Once licensed, you’ll have the opportunity to take on more complex and challenging projects that require advanced drone operations. These can include:
- Night flying: Many commercial shoots, especially for film and TV, require night-time aerial shots. A drone pilot licence allows you to apply for night flight endorsements.
- Beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS): Some operations, such as surveying large agricultural fields or inspecting remote infrastructure, may require flying beyond visual line of sight. With the right endorsements, your licence enables you to perform these advanced operations.
Flying Glass offers additional training for pilots who want to expand their skill set and qualify for more complex missions, ensuring that you’re always ready for your next big project.
9. Streamlined Approvals for Restricted Airspace
If you’re planning to fly drones commercially in locations with restricted airspace, such as near airports or over populous areas like Sydney Harbour, you’ll need special approvals from CASA. Having a drone pilot licence makes this process significantly easier, as CASA trusts licensed operators to understand the complexities of flying in these areas.
Our team at Flying Glass can guide you through the process of obtaining these approvals, ensuring that your project goes smoothly and without delays.
10. Increased Networking Opportunities
Holding a drone pilot licence can also help you network with other professionals in the industry. Whether it’s through joining professional organisations, attending drone-related events, or collaborating with other licensed operators on large-scale projects, having a licence opens the door to valuable connections that can help you grow your career.
11. The Ability to Hire or Manage Other Drone Operators
Once you hold a drone pilot licence, you can expand your operations by hiring or managing other licensed operators. If you plan to start your own drone business, you’ll need to apply for a Remote Operator’s Certificate (ReOC), which allows you to run a drone operation commercially. As the business grows, you can take on multiple pilots, manage large projects, and expand your services.
Flying Glass offers consultancy services to help businesses obtain their ReOC and set up safe and compliant drone operations, ensuring that your business is ready for success.
12. Freedom to Operate Internationally
While this post focuses on the benefits of a drone pilot licence in Australia, having a licence can also make it easier to operate internationally. Different countries have their own licensing requirements, but being licensed in Australia demonstrates that you’ve met high standards of safety and compliance, which can simplify the process of getting licensed abroad.
At Flying Glass, we’re certified to operate in Europe, the USA, and beyond, and we can provide guidance on obtaining international licences for your drone business.
13. Flexibility to Work Across NSW
Having a drone pilot licence gives you the flexibility to operate across a variety of environments in NSW, from urban landscapes in Sydney to rural areas in the Blue Mountains or along the coast. Whether you’re filming for a major TV series or conducting an agricultural survey, your licence ensures that you’re fully equipped to handle diverse operational conditions across the state.
14. Access to Ongoing Training and Endorsements
Once you’ve obtained your drone pilot licence, the learning doesn’t stop there. As technology advances, new drone capabilities and industry needs emerge, making it essential for drone pilots to stay up to date with the latest skills and endorsements. Holding an RePL allows you to access additional training and certifications, such as night flying or controlled airspace operations, keeping you at the forefront of the industry.
At Flying Glass, we offer a range of advanced training courses that help licensed pilots continue their education and expand their professional opportunities.
15. Opportunities to Work with Government and Councils
In New South Wales, many councils and government bodies are increasingly using drones for tasks like infrastructure inspections, environmental monitoring, and emergency response. Holding a drone pilot licence qualifies you to bid for government contracts and provide drone services to these organisations.
Flying Glass regularly provides consultancy services to councils, helping them train their employees, update operations manuals, and ensure compliance with CASA regulations.
16. Showreel Inspiration: What’s Achievable with a Licence
If you’re looking for inspiration on what’s possible with a drone pilot licence, be sure to check out Flying Glass’s showreel. We’ve worked on some of the most exciting TV, film, and commercial projects in Australia, capturing stunning aerial footage of Sydney’s skyline, iconic landmarks, and remote locations. Our showreel demonstrates the potential of drone technology and serves as a reminder of the amazing work you can achieve once you’re licensed.
Conclusion: Get Your Drone Pilot Licence with Flying Glass
Obtaining a drone pilot licence is a crucial step for anyone serious about working in the drone industry. From unlocking high-paying job opportunities to ensuring legal compliance, a licence gives you the skills, knowledge, and credibility needed to succeed in this fast-growing field. At Flying Glass, our drone school offers comprehensive training that prepares you for a wide range of professional opportunities, from film and TV to agriculture and real estate.
Contact us today to learn more about our RePL training programs and consultancy services, and take the first step toward becoming a licensed drone pilot.