Hello… I will be getting my Part 107 certification to fly drones commercially, but I want to make sure I fully understand what I’m getting into. While I’ve read a lot about the benefits, I’m curious about the downsides or challenges associated with obtaining and maintaining the certification.
What are the “cons” of getting a Part 107? Are there any unexpected costs, time commitments, or restrictions that I should be aware of? Any insights or experiences you could share would be greatly appreciated. TIA
Getting a Part 107 certification for commercial drone flying comes with several benefits, but there are also some downsides and challenges to consider. One major downside is the cost: aside from the initial exam fee, there may be additional expenses for training materials, courses, and possibly ongoing educational requirements. Time commitment is another factor—preparing for the exam involves studying aeronautical knowledge, regulations, and safety procedures, which can be time-consuming. Additionally, maintaining the certification requires adhering to regulations and possibly updating knowledge or equipment as rules evolve. There are also operational restrictions, such as limits on flying over people, at night, or beyond visual line of sight without additional waivers. These constraints and the need for careful compliance with FAA regulations can add complexity to your operations.