Safety
One of the most important reasons to choose a quality drone operator is safety. Drones can pose a potential risk to people and property if not operated correctly. A professional drone operator will have the necessary training and experience to ensure safe operation of the drone. They will also have a thorough understanding of airspace regulations, weather conditions, and other factors that could impact the safety of the flight.
Insurance
Even the most skilled drone operator can have accidents. That's why a good drone operator will have liability insurance to cover any potential damage or injury. Cheaper operators may not have insurance, which means you could be liable for any damages or injuries that occur during the shoot.
Knowledge and Equipment
A good drone operator has experience and knowledge of the latest drone technology and equipment. Cheaper operators may lack the necessary knowledge or may use inadequate equipment, leading to subpar results. A good drone operator will also have backup equipment in case of a malfunction, ensuring the shoot goes as planned.
Flight Planning and Risk Assessments
There is nothing worse than having a drone operator turn up on site who has not checked for flight restrictions in the area and then not being able to take off. A good drone operator will conduct a comprehensive risk assessments and flight planning before the shoot. This includes checking for flight restrictions in the area, as well as identifying potential hazards like trees, buildings, and power lines. Cheaper operators may not conduct a proper risk assessment or flight planning, leading to delays and potential hazards.
Law Compliance
Drone laws and regulations can vary by location, and a good drone operator will be up-to-date on the latest regulations and obtain any necessary permissions or authorisations. Cheaper operators may not be aware of or may not comply with local restrictions, leading to legal issues and fines.
Why a Good Drone Operator Costs So Much
The cost of hiring a good drone operator may seem high, but it is necessary for quality results and safety. Here are some reasons why a good drone operator costs so much:
Limited Flying Days in a Year: It's important to consider that drone operators who charge very low prices for their services may not be full-time professionals. Keep in mind that weather conditions and other factors can limit the number of days a drone can fly in a year, reducing the opportunities for a drone operator to work. A professional operator has to account for this and charge accordingly to make a living.
Insurance Costs: Liability insurance for drone operations can be expensive, but it is necessary to protect against potential accidents and injuries.
Training Costs: A good drone operator will have completed the necessary training and certification to ensure safe and effective operation. This can cost £1000’s of per year.
Equipment Costs: When considering a drone operator, it's crucial to understand that their equipment costs can be significant. Drone technology and camera equipment can be expensive, and a professional drone operator will have invested heavily in the latest and most advanced equipment to produce high-quality footage. This investment ensures that they can deliver excellent results, even in challenging conditions.
A good drone operator knows that the right equipment can make all the difference in capturing stunning aerial footage. They stay up to date with the latest developments in drone technology and camera equipment, and they invest in the best tools to help them achieve the desired results. By choosing a drone operator who uses high-quality equipment, clients can be assured of receiving the best possible results.
Maintenance Costs: Drones require regular maintenance and repairs, which can add to the cost of operating a drone business.
The Cost of Experience: The cost of experience is an important factor to consider when choosing a drone operator. A good operator will have years of experience in the industry, which means they have honed their skills over time and have a better understanding of how to operate drones in various environments and conditions. With this experience comes knowledge of best practices, such as maintaining a safe distance from people and property, understanding the limits of the equipment, and capturing the best possible shots.
Having a skilled and experienced drone operator also means they can handle unexpected situations that may arise during a shoot. They can adapt to changing weather conditions, adjust camera settings on the fly, and improvise solutions to problems that arise. This kind of experience cannot be bought or learned overnight, and it's worth the investment to ensure quality results and safe operation.
It's important to note that experience may come with a higher price tag. However, this cost is justified when considering the potential risks and costs of hiring a cheaper, less experienced operator. Investing in an experienced drone operator is an investment in the success and safety of your project.
Why Risk It?
Choosing a cheap drone operator may seem like a smart move, but it can lead to poor quality results, safety issues, and potential legal problems. It's worth investing in a good drone operator who prioritizes safety, has the necessary knowledge and equipment, conducts proper flight planning and risk assessments, and complies with local regulations. While the cost may be higher, it's a worthwhile investment for quality results and peace of mind. So, why risk it? Choose a good drone operator and enjoy stunning aerial footage without the stress and worry.
Here are 10 tips on hiring the right drone op for your project...
- Check if the drone operator is certified by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). This ensures that they are trained and qualified to operate drones safely and legally.
- Look at the operator's portfolio and examples of previous work to ensure that they have experience in the specific type of drone operation you require.
- Check if the drone operator has appropriate insurance coverage for their equipment and services.
- Ensure that the drone operator has a clear understanding of your requirements and the scope of the project.
- Discuss the details of the project with the drone operator to ensure that they have the right equipment and technology to meet your needs.
- Check the drone operator's reputation by reading reviews and feedback from previous clients.
- Discuss the timeline and budget of the project with the drone operator to ensure that they can deliver within your timeframe and budget.
- Ask the drone operator about their safety measures and protocols to ensure that they prioritize safety during their operations.
- Check if the drone operator has any additional certifications or qualifications that may be relevant to your project.
- Finally, make sure that you have a clear contract in place with the drone operator that outlines the scope of work, payment terms, and any other relevant details to avoid any misunderstandings.