FAA Regulation
The FAA treats commercial drone operations with the same regulatory seriousness as manned aircraft. For businesses that hire drone pilots, understanding what the law requires isn't optional — it's basic due diligence. Here is what Ed Rich complies with on every commercial flight, and what an unlicensed operator simply cannot offer.
FAA Part 107 commercial pilots must pass a recurrent aeronautical knowledge exam every 24 months to keep their certificate active. The exam covers current regulations, airspace changes, and operational procedures.
What this means for you: Ed Rich holds a current, active certificate — not one that lapsed years ago.
All drones over 250 grams must broadcast their ID, location, altitude, and speed in real time during flight. Remote ID is federal law and is actively enforced. Ed Rich's equipment is fully compliant on every flight.
What this means for you: Every flight Ed conducts is fully trackable and accountable to FAA standards.
Flying a drone over people or moving vehicles requires FAA authorization under Part 107 Subpart D. The aircraft must meet specific safety and performance categories. This is not a casual permission — it requires planning, the right equipment, and documentation filed in advance.
What this means for you: Events, crowded job sites, and busy intersections can be covered legally and safely.
Commercial drone operations after official sunset require anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles. Standard drone LEDs do not meet this threshold. Ed Rich uses properly rated lighting equipment for any nighttime operation.
What this means for you: Dusk shoots, evening events, and after-hours inspections are all within scope.
Operating in controlled airspace around airports requires LAANC authorization obtained before takeoff. Ed Rich is trained to identify airspace classifications, request authorizations through the FAA's LAANC system, and comply with all ATC requirements during the operation.
What this means for you: Projects near Cleveland Hopkins, Akron-Canton, Burke Lakefront, or any controlled airspace can be handled legally.
Ed Rich carries $1 million in commercial UAS liability insurance on every flight. This is separate from recreational drone insurance and specifically covers commercial operations. An unlicensed pilot's insurance policy is almost certainly void the moment the flight has a commercial purpose.
What this means for you: You are protected if something goes wrong — an unlicensed pilot leaves you exposed.
Why These Rules Keep Changing
The FAA's drone regulations have evolved significantly since Part 107 was introduced in 2016. Remote ID was phased in through 2023 and is now fully enforced. Rules around flight over people were overhauled. Night flight requirements changed. More updates are expected as drone technology and commercial use cases continue to expand.
What This Means If You Hire an Unlicensed Pilot
None of the compliance items above apply to an unlicensed operator. They cannot legally obtain LAANC authorization, their insurance is void for commercial use, they are not tested on current regulations, and Remote ID compliance on consumer drones is not guaranteed. The liability for any violations or incidents doesn't rest solely with the pilot — it can extend to the business that hired them.