Hi - I am a new inspector here at InterNACHI - have never owned or flown a drone - and decided to dive into learning a little about having a drone available in my arsenal for roof imaging capabilities when “walking the roof” is not a safe option. It just seemed to make sense.
First I decided to go through InterNACHI’s DRONE Pilot Training. While I learned a great deal about drones and FAA Part 107 Requirements - I just felt like I needed some additional support in preparing for the exam as I did not want to waste the exam fee of $160.00 (Yes, it went up).
Next I researched several on-line “drone schools” for about two weeks before I opted to go with “Drone Pilot Ground School.” Let me tell you, that was quite simply the smartest decision I ever made. I gave myself two weeks - went through their course and never felt so prepared to sit for an exam in my life. Thirty six minutes after it started I finished and scored a 93. Seriously, if you are thinking about preparing for the FAA Part 107 Exam - you really to check these folks out.
Next I did a significant amount of research on drones - especially their imaging capabilities and after all my research decided to go with the Mavic 2 Zoom. Waiting for my FAA Certification to arrive and practicing with the drone in the mean time. I love the programmable features on the Mavic 2 Zoom - especially the zoom function for close up imaging. Just wanted to share my “Drone” experience to date.
Hi Clyde,
That will help many potential drone pilots make a decision. Thank you.
Hi - just trying to share! Thanks!
You don’t need to pay for any classes. I have showed a many how to pass the test with a few YouTube videos…
Hi - I did the You Tube stuff too - but I still felt like I needed additional support and resources. Like I said - you don’t have to do what I did - I did what I was felt was best for me - pleased with the results!
How are you liking the Mavic 2 Zoom? I am trying to decide between the pro and the zoom. I really like the idea of having a zoom camera for inspections.
Hi - just some fried rice iendly advice. Start out with the DJI Mini or Mini 2…… once you get the hang of using a drone then look at more advanced models if you really want to. I started out with the DJI ZOOM… it now sits on the shelf while I fly one of my four Mini’s Bottom Line is you don’t need a drone of that caliper to drone roofs…. The Mini will do anything you need done on a roof and for a lot less $.
Thank you Sonny. Good Information. And you liked Drone Pilot Ground School?
Yes - they were great!
The other thing I would say is that since the Mini came out - and it is under minimum weight requirements for FAA Part 107 requirements - thee is great open debate over whether or not you need the Part 107 now… when I passed mine DJI had not even come out with the Mini yet and I decided to go with the basest toy I could find in the ZOOM. Not a bad drone but a real waste of $. When the Mini came out I tried it and fell in love with it - so much easier to operate and fly. I now have 4. The only draw back is you have to be cautious in windy weather because of its weight - have read horror stories of them simply disappearing in winds… keep it close to the roof on those occasions… Good Luck Guy
If you are flying during an inspection, you need a license and your drone needs to be registered.
The 249-gram-rule is for recreational pilots, not for us.
What @bhull1 said . If you are using it to make money, you need a license. It’s kinda like in the CMV world, if you are using the truck to make money no matter the size, GVRW, etc… It it is a Commercial Vehicle and falls under Federal DOT regulations.
You are correct. I am well aware of that - just saying…… two years in and I have never been carded - not once……Lol