How to Become a Successful Commercial Drone Pilot in the UK: Beyond A2 C of C and GVC Courses by RUAS

So, you’ve taken the plunge and successfully completed either the A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 C of C) or the General VLOS Certificate (GVC) course offered by RUAS. The certificate is now in hand, and the sky, quite literally, is the limit. But how do you transition from being a certified pilot to a successful commercial drone pilot in the UK?

Here’s a roadmap to guide you.

commercial drone pilot in the uk

1. Familiarise Yourself with UK Drone Regulations

Understanding and abiding by the UK’s drone regulations is paramount. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regularly updates its rules, so ensure you’re always in compliance. Regularly check their website and attend industry conferences to stay informed.

2. Invest in High-Quality Equipment

Your drone and its associated equipment are the tools of your trade. Investing in a high-quality drone and maintaining it well will not only allow you to provide superior services but also reduce the chances of accidents and malfunctions.

commercial drone pilot in the uk

3. Specialise in a Niche

The drone industry has multiple niches, such as aerial photography, mapping, agricultural monitoring, and inspections. Find a niche that aligns with your interests and develop expertise in that area.

4. Build a Portfolio

Just like any other profession, a portfolio showcasing your best work can help you attract clients. Include videos, photographs, and other deliverables from your projects. Ensure you have permission from clients before sharing any materials.

5. Networking is Key

Join drone pilot networks, local business groups, or online forums. Engage with peers, share experiences, and seek opportunities for collaboration. Building relationships can open doors to new ventures and clients.

6. Ensure You’re Properly Insured

This is a non-negotiable for commercial drone pilots. Having the right insurance not only protects you from potential liabilities but also instills confidence in potential clients.

7. Set Competitive Rates

Research what other commercial drone pilots are charging in your niche and area. While it might be tempting to undercut the competition, it’s essential to ensure you’re being compensated fairly for your time, skill, and equipment usage.

commercial drone pilot in the uk

8. Continuously Upgrade Your Skills

The drone industry is evolving rapidly. Consider taking advanced courses, workshops, or webinars to stay updated with the latest technologies and techniques.

9. Leverage Social Media and Online Marketing

Having a strong online presence can help attract potential clients. Regularly post your work, share industry news, and engage with followers on platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, X and TikTok.

10. Deliver Exceptional Customer Service

Last but certainly not least, always strive for excellence. Delivering projects on time, maintaining open communication with clients, and exceeding their expectations will ensure repeat business and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

In conclusion, becoming a successful commercial drone pilot in the UK requires a blend of technical skills, business acumen, and continuous learning. As you embark on this exciting journey, always remember that your reputation is your biggest asset.

GVC Transition Course
best seller

TQUK Level 4 Award for Commercial Drone Pilots

£1150

Ofqual-regulated  GVC, A2 CofC, Flight Training and Assessment Drone Training Course.

  • ELCAS Credits for Army Leavers
  • Perfect for Career Changers
  • Excellent for Uni Graduates
  • Recognised Commercial Qualification
  • Best Package on the Market
A2 CofC Training

A2 CofC Mock Exam

£0

The A2 Certificate of Competency is a remote pilot competency certificate intended to assure the safe operation of unmanned aircraft close to uninvolved persons.

  • Four Online Modules
  • Online Theory Exam
  • Self-Declaration of Flying Practice
  • Ongoing Student Support
  • No need to apply to the CAA
A2 CofC Training

GVC Mock Exam

£0

The General Visual Line Of Sight Certificate (GVC) has been developed for the operation of a drone with a MTOM of <25kg within the Specific Category.

  • Four Online Modules
  • Online Theory Exam
  • Self-Declaration of Flying Practice
  • Ongoing Student Support
  • No need to apply to the CAA
Bespoke Training

Industry Bespoke Training (Classroom & Onsite Available)

POA

Industry Bespoke Training is developed in accordance with how your company intend to operate, which can also offer companies with slightly unusual operations to have the training adapted to their individual requirements.

  • Learn from leading experts
  • Customised Training
Aerial Processing Course

Aerial Data Processing Course (3 Day Classroom)

£795

RUAS Aerial Data Processing course is the next step in data capture for image processing of GIS data product generation through Agisoft Metashape.

  • Introduction to UAV mapping
  • Learn from leading experts
  • Understanding of Data Alignment
  • 'Terrain Follow’ in surveying
  • Image pre-processing/post-processing
A2 CofC Training

A2 CofC (Online)

£99

The A2 Certificate of Competency is a remote pilot competency certificate intended to assure the safe operation of unmanned aircraft close to uninvolved persons.

  • Four Online Modules
  • Online Theory Exam
  • Self-Declaration of Flying Practice
  • Ongoing Student Support
  • No need to apply to the CAA
GVC Transition Course

General VLOS Certificate (GVC) (Online & Classroom)

£599

The General Visual Line Of Sight Certificate (GVC) has been developed for the operation of a drone with a MTOM of <25kg within the Specific Category.

  • Online Pre-learning Modules
  • 1 Day Classroom Training (Virtual options available on request)
  • Written Theory Exam
  • Practical Flight Assessment
  • Operations Manual Support
  • Ongoing Student Support
GVC Transition Course
best seller

A2 CofC and GVC Combined (Online & Classroom)

£649

This Learning Plan includes both the A2 Certificate of Competency and the General VLOS Certificate combined at a reduced price.

  • Online Pre-learning Modules
  • 1 Day Classroom Training (Virtual options available on request)
  • Written / Online Theory Exams
  • Practical Flight Assessment
  • Operations Manual Support
  • Ongoing Student Support
Drone Training Courses

GVC Transition (Online)

£400

The GVC Transition is specifically aimed at individuals who are already operating under the legacy PFCO or NQE prior to December 2020 and who need to re-qualify.

  • 9 Online Learning Modules
  • An Online Theory Exam (invigilated remotely by a member of the RUAS Training Academy team)
  • *A Practical Flight Assessment (*if required – please contact RUAS Training Academy for further details)
Drone Flight Training

Half Day Flight Training

£150

A half day flight training from a CAA approved experienced drone instructor.

  • Online Pre-learning modules
  • Practice on the interactive DJI flight simulator
  • Get to fly one or two of the latest DJI drones
  • CAA Professional drone pilot will teach and advise you
  • Drone flying lesson certificate
Drone Flight Training

Full Day Flight Training

£300

A full day flight training from a CAA approved experienced drone instructor.

  • Online Pre-learning Modules
  • Practice on the interactive DJI flight simulator
  • Get to fly one or two of the latest DJI drones
  • CAA Professional drone pilot will teach and advise you
  • Drone flying lesson certificate
Bespoke Training

Operations Manual Review (Remote Study)

£150

This course has been specifically designed for those who need guidance in preparing their Operations Manual in order to apply for an Operational Authorisation from the CAA.

  • Full Operations Manual guidance
  • Online video tutorials
  • Unique CAA Operations Manual template
  • Design to meet the new CAA requirements
  • Operations Manual review prior to submission

Jessica Garrard-Chick

October 16

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