Important information when hiring a drone pilot

1. IS THE PILOT LICENSED? - In August 2016 the FAA introduced 14 CFR 107 (also known as Part 107), which are the commercial operating rules for drones weighing less than 55 pounds.  Pilots and operators who wish to operate drones for commercial (for-hire) purposes are now required to have a Part 107 'drone/UAS' license to do so legally.  Asking if the potential hire has a license is a good first step, but you should follow up by asking to see their actual FAA certificate/license.  The FAA can impose steep fines not only on unlicensed operators but also on those who hire an unlicensed operator!  

Hiring an unlicensed commercial drone operator can result in federal civil penalties of roughly $11,000 for the client and up to $75,000 for the person flying the drone, or the business. 

2. IS THE OPERATOR INSURED? - Using an operator that follows the rules and has procedures in place to prevent mishaps can put the odds in your favor for a safe and successful operation, but no matter how knowledgeable or experienced an operator may be, there is always a chance that something could go wrong.  Though it is not a requirement under the FAA Part 107 rules, it is highly advised that you seek a drone pilot who carries some sort of liability insurance to protect you and the operator should anything happen.  

3. ARE THEY KNOWLEDGEABLE ABOUT AIRSPACE/FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS? - It is imperative that whomever you are looking to hire has a good deal of knowledge about when and where operations can be safely conducted.  The National Airspace System is one of the most complex aviation systems in the world, and there are certain requirements, including waivers and authorizations, that the operator must have to legally fly for commercial purposes within certain types of airspace - specifically, 'Controlled Airspace'.  There are also specific waivers that are required for other types of operations as well, such as nighttime, operations over people, etc.