Job Description: Drone Operator / Drone Pilot
Art and innovation have finally come together in the world of entertainment: At Allumee, we’ve combined cutting-edge technology with creativity to offer unique drone shows that captivate audiences at every performance. Behind this technology are people— drone pilots, or as they’re more simply known, “dronists.” More than just pilots, they are true artists who bring breathtaking drone shows to life.
Definition of the Drone Operator Profession
The Le Robert dictionary defines a drone operator as “a person who controls a drone.” Others define it as “a person who flies or uses a drone for recreational or professional purposes .” Yes, in practice, a drone operator—or drone pilot—is a professional who specializes in operating drones for various applications. Since the profession of drone operator is highly regulated, it requires not only technical skills in piloting and programming but also legal knowledge.
What does being a drone pilot involve?
Aerial Mapping
Drone operators help create accurate maps for urban planning and architectural projects, or to capture images of inaccessible terrain.
Environmental Monitoring
It is also possible to monitor sensitive natural areas and collect data by helping to identify endangered animal or plant species, for example.
Precision Agriculture
Drones also help farmers optimize their yields by monitoring crops, identifying areas that need irrigation, or even applying pesticides in a highly targeted manner.
Security and Surveillance
Drone operators can participate in security missions and monitor sensitive infrastructure or specific events during large gatherings.
Audiovisual Media and Film
To capture spectacular aerial shots for documentaries, commercials, or film productions, drone operators are sometimes the only ones who can provide exceptional perspectives that would otherwise be impossible to achieve.
Of course, the possibilities are vast, and applications continue to expand as drone technology advances. In the arts, at Allumee, drone pilots play a vital role in the design and production of light shows.
How does one train to become a drone pilot?
Since the profession of drone operator is highly regulated, it is therefore essential to complete professional training. The use of civilian drones is governed by European regulations that are constantly evolving, gradually replacing the old French rules. These regulations distinguish between three categories of activity based on risk level: open, specific, and certified.
The open category, which covers low-risk activities, includes both recreational and professional uses. This category is divided into three subcategories based on the drone’s weight. All drones weighing between 250 grams and 25 kilograms must be registered on a dedicated platform, and operators are required to complete mandatory training.
The mandatory training consists of two parts: a theoretical component and a practical component.
The theory exam, which takes the form of a multiple-choice test, is administered at centers approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. Passing this exam leads to the issuance of the Remote Pilot Theory Proficiency Certificate (CATT).
Once the written exam has been passed, practical training is provided by a certified instructor. This training enables participants to acquire the skills necessary to fly a drone safely and in compliance with current regulations.
For the other categories, the Professional Federation of Civil Drones, which certifies pilot training centers, will be able to provide details on the current regulations as well as a list of approved instructors for each category.
Some additional information about the profession
How much does a drone pilot make?
A drone operator’s salary depends on their industry and level of experience. Earnings can vary based on the frequency of assignments and the complexity of projects. On average, a drone operator starts at around €2,000 gross per month. This amount can increase rapidly with experience and technical skills. Experienced drone operators or those working on prestigious projects can earn salaries exceeding €3,500 gross per month.
Highly Praised Qualities
To excel as a drone operator, certain qualities are essential:
- Sense of direction: It may seem trivial, but while on the ground, the drone pilot must be able to visualize and anticipate the drone’s movements.
- Precision: Every movement counts; the predefined flight path is precise and must be methodically executed in complete safety.
- Responsiveness: Managing unexpected technical issues in real time requires a cool head and the ability to analyze situations quickly.
- Interpersonal Skills: While drone operators can often work independently, they may also work as part of a team with other technicians; in either case, they must remain attentive to clients’ needs.
- Creativity: In an artistic setting, such as at Allumee, devising and choreographing captivating routines is part of what’s expected to create unique performances.
- A passion for technology: Since technology is constantly evolving, drones are no exception, and an enthusiastic drone pilot is usually on the lookout for the latest innovations.
Drone Pilots for Drone Shows
At Allumee, drone pilots are at the heart of the magic of our shows. They design the staging and fly —or rather, program—the drones to create marvelous, synchronized light displays. The way a performance drone operates is quite unique. Each scene is a unique combination of technological innovation and artistic vision. The entire process of creating a drone show—from the client’s initial idea to the final performance—involves the drone pilots at every stage. Together, they design the visual sequences that tell a story and convey a message or an emotion. For these choreographed sequences, the drone operators oversee every step of this meticulously planned show, ensuring a harmonious visual presentation while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Conclusion
At Allumee, our drone pilots bring their expertise, precision, skill, and artistic creativity to the table. Their mission is to transform the sky into a visual stage and orchestrate this ballet of illuminated drones into a unique, magical, and memorable show—all to help you discover a new way to be amazed.
