Aviation division
PROFESSIONAL DRONE PILOT
Next Course Dates:
February 03-14, 2025
Successful completion of this program will the allow the graduate to work in fields such as: Insurance Claims, Fire and Disaster Relief Pilot, Search & Rescue, Law Enforcement, Oil and Gas Line Inspector, Border Patrol Agent, Traffic Reporting, Storm Chaser, Agriculture inspector, Package Delivery Pilot, Forestry, Engineering, Computer Science, Commercial Contractors, Real Estate, Feature Films, Digital Marketing, and many other industries.
This course was developed by our Founder, Doron Benbenisty, former Israeli Special Forces operator and instructor for the IDF.
Course Modules
154 Instructional Hours
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Course Opening and Orientation
Objective: This overview will brief the students on the contents of the course. Students will gain a thorough understanding of the complexity in dealing with UAVs, and Drones. Students will be shown the facility, the course materials, equipment and the instructing staff.
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FAA Regulations for Part 107 Exam Objective: Students will learn the methods and studies of the FAA Airman Ground School part 107 Exam. The Part 107, the new FAA commercial drone regulation, allows drone pilots to fly UAS or UAVs for business purposes. It will prepare students for the two hour official FAA exam for all pilot requirements, aircraft requirements and operating rules.
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Weather Part 107 Exam
Objective: Students will learn the different effects weather has on aerial operations and the risks that it can bring. This module will cover density altitude, temperature effects, wind effects, and humidity or rainy conditions. In addition to the effects, students will learn the proper language in deciphering weather reports and forecasts.
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Sectional Charts Part 107 Exam
Objective: In this module students will learn the very important skill of reading and understanding sectional charts. Categories in this module include elevations, topography, contour lines, obstructions, restricted and unrestricted airspace. In addition, students will learn how to locate themselves on a sectional chart and read designated flight paths.
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Drone Simulator Flight
Objective: Before taking flight with an expensive UAV, students will become familiar with flight operations in a UAV simulator. This simulator will prepare students with adjusting to weather conditions, elevation, and maneuvers by accomplishing tasks and objectives. This process has shown to be extremely valuable in building the confidence and competence of new pilots.
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Radio Part 107 Exam
Objective: Students will learn and fully understand radio procedures and communications. Familiarization with control tower operations is an important part of being a UAV pilot. This module will cover frequencies, Unicom, Multicom and aircraft call signs.
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Photography Part 107 Exam
Objective: Students will be introduced to camera operations regarding UAVs. This module covers Aperture, ISO and shutter speeds, lenses, jello effect, exposure and more. Special attention will be given to aerial photography, panoramic views and high angle shots.
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Maintenance Part 107 Exam
Objective: Students will be introduced to the preventative maintenance and systems checks with UAVs and the associated equipment. This module will cover preflight procedures and checks, record keeping warning lights and troubleshooting common problems.
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Emergency Operations Part 107 Exam
Objective: Students will know and understand Preflight Issues/Emergencies, Inflight Issues/Emergencies as an inflight emergency is an unexpected and unforeseen event that can have severe consequences for an unprepared pilot.
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Decision Making and Physiological Factors Part 107 Exam
Objective: Students will know and understand Aeronautical Decision Making (ADM), risk assessment and stress management and procedures for Crew Resource Management (CRM). That mitigate potentially dangerous attitudes and help modify those attitudes to create a safer work environment
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Airport Operations Part 107 Exam
Objective: Students will know and understand Airport Types (Towered/Non-Towered), Airport Data, Runway Markings, Chart Supplement, Notices to Airmen, Automated Terminal Information Service (A.T.I.S), Aeronautical Charts, Sectional Charts marking, Latitude/Longitude, Variation, Antenna Towers.
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Aircraft Loading Part 107 Exam
Objective: Students will know and understand Weight, Stability, Loading Factors, Steep Turns, Stalling Speeds, Balance and there’s effect on an aircraft
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Drone Preflight
Objective: Students will learn and understand how to perform pre-flights systems and checks. This includes syncing the radio to the UAV, acquiring GPS satellite connections and preventative maintenance procedures.
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Drone Flight
Objective: In this module, the student will know and understand how to fly and operate a drone /UAV, a well-prepared pilot will begin flight with a UAV. Students will engage in tasks growing in complexity to become familiar with aerial navigation. This includes a full understanding of the radio controls, settings and indicator displays. Under the guidance of an instructor, students will learn how to safely operate and become a qualified visual observer (VO).
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Aerial Photography and Videography
Objective: Students will learn the skill of aerial photography and videography in this module, which includes drone storytelling, creative and dynamic photography and videography. Additional topics include the standards and theory of photography such as the rule of thirds, lighting, panning, orbiting and visual interpretation. This skill can be used not only in a tactical environment, but also in multiple fields including real estate, tourism, and land surveying. Students will also learn to identify perspective client needs when they are employed as an aerial asset.
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Drone Repair
Objectives: Students will understand the foundation of common drone repairs, the steps in examining a damaged drone and replacing drone parts. In addition to drone anatomy, students will learn the skill of soldering and the components it requires. Finally, students will learn how to teach preventative maintenance procedures for UAVs and UAS.
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Drone Business, Marketing and Sales
Objective: This Module concentrates on the difference between operating a UAV and becoming a UAV resource. Students will learn about the drone industry and how to represent themselves as an asset. Using current marketing trends such as social media and web-based advertising, students will put together a presentation packet showing their value in the aerial marketplace as well as learning state and federal business regulations. Public speaking, as well as pitching and negotiating with a client will also be instructed.
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Postproduction and Photo Editing
Objective: Students are introduced to photo editing programs and software. In post-production photo editing, the students will learn how to apply filters, color correction and other factors to enhance their photos.
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Postproduction and Video Editing
Objective: The students will learn the techniques of post-production videography and how to apply it to their business and marketing skills. Students will learn video editing and how the use of color correction, filters and audio overlays can emphasize their footage.
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Drone Laws
Objective: Students will learn the various risks and liabilities in operating a drone business. In addition, students will be introduced to several Insurance options and possible coverages. Students will have a thorough understanding of the legal risks involved in a UAV endeavor.
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2D and 3D Modeling & Mapping
Objective: Through hands-on training and expert instruction, students learn to execute complex aerial missions, process aerial data, and create detailed maps and models. This comprehensive course prepares participants for a successful career in commercial drone services, ensuring they meet industry standards and excel in the field.
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Beyond Visual Line of Sight
Objective: Provide in-depth training on operating drones beyond the pilot's direct visual range. Participants gain expertise in advanced navigation systems, regulatory compliance, and safety protocols essential for BVLOS operations. This module prepares students to perform complex, long-range missions, enhancing their capabilities and opening new opportunities in commercial drone services.
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Drone Storytelling
Objective: Through practical exercises and expert guidance, students learn to capture stunning visuals, plan story-driven drone missions, and edit their footage to tell engaging stories. This module equips participants with the creative and technical skills needed to produce captivating aerial content for various media and commercial purposes.
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Pitching to a Client
Objective: Students learn effective strategies for identifying potential clients, crafting persuasive pitches, and building lasting professional relationships. This module provides practical techniques for marketing drone services and securing business opportunities, ensuring participants can successfully grow their commercial drone operations.
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Negotiating with Clients
Objective: Through practical scenarios and expert instruction, students learn techniques for effective communication, deal-making, and conflict resolution. This module ensures that participants can confidently negotiate contracts, manage client expectations, and secure favorable terms, enhancing their ability to succeed in the competitive drone services market.
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Public Speaking
Objective: Through hands-on practice and expert coaching, students learn to deliver clear, engaging presentations, handle audience questions, and build confidence in public speaking. This module ensures participants can effectively convey their expertise and value to clients, stakeholders, and larger audiences, boosting their professional credibility and impact.
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Introduction to RPA Pilot
Objective: Participants gain foundational knowledge in drone systems, flight principles, and regulatory requirements. This module prepares students for advanced training by establishing a solid understanding of RPA technology, safety protocols, and industry applications, setting the stage for successful careers in the drone industry.
Career Opportunities
There are myriad job opportunities available to those that complete this program, in fields such as: insurance claims, Fire and Disaster Relief Pilot, Search & Rescue, Law Enforcement, Oil and Gas line Inspector, Border Patrol Agent, traffic reporting, Storm Chaser, Agriculture inspector, Package Delivery Pilot, Forestry, Engineering, Computer Science, Commercial Contractors, Real Estate, Feature Films, Digital Marketing, and other industries. ref: https://uavcoach.com/uav-jobs/
Prerequisites
Prior knowledge on basic drone operation is recommended, but not required.
This is not a tactical course. Certain handicaps and mobility issues will not limit you from participating, and excelling, in this course.
Course Completion
Upon successful completion of the course, students leave with a Part 107 certification* and their own 4K drone in order to start working immediately.
*students must pass the FAA's test, given at an offsite location during the course. CRI will pay for one certification test per student, roughly $200.
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