A UAS includes the whole system, including steering and the pilot, so the UAV is a part of the UAS.

“UAS,” on the other hand, refers to more than just the aircraft. For the most part, those terms are used interchangeably. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) frequently uses UAV to refer to drones, while most mainstream media outlets use the term drone, as it’s better known to the average reader. You may see different terminology depending on the source. Another common term used in this industry is UAS, which refers to unmanned aircraft systems.

What’s the difference between a drone, a UAV and a UAS?Ī UAV is an unmanned aerial vehicle. This can require a significant amount of travel to work sites. Many companies don’t employ full-time drone pilots, but bring people in to fly drones for specific projects. Our research found that most companies hire drone pilots for freelance jobs. Commercial drone pilots execute different drone needs for different businesses. Some companies use drones to take aerial photos and videos for marketing purposes, while other companies use drones for aerial surveillance. What does a commercial drone pilot do?Īt the most basic level, commercial drone pilots fly drones for companies in a range of industries for varying purposes. For prospective drone pilots who are enterprising enough to leap into this novel occupation, work that is both thrilling and profitable awaits. One such job is commercial drone pilot.Īccording to a Research and Markets report, companies across myriad industries will spend over $16 billion on drones and drone services and catalyze the drone service market to create 100,000 new jobs by 2025. This article is for prospective freelance drone pilots interested in working in the burgeoning and lucrative new industry of drone piloting.Īs the gig economy continues to grow around the world, new professions have arisen to service the changing technological and economic demands of multiple industries.You must take certain key steps to become a commercial drone pilot, including taking courses, getting a drone license, purchasing drone insurance and choosing the right drone for your business.Commercial drone pilots serve industries like insurance, agriculture, and media, making the work high in variety and potential profit.The gig economy is expected to generate $204 billion and grow 17% by 2023, according to a 2019 Mastercard study, and the drone piloting market is expected to grow substantially along with it.

Getting faa drone license