Drone Photography Is Not a Toy. Here’s What You Need to Know Before Hiring a Pilot in Sarasota, Florida.

Bird Solutions
Jan 1
3 min read

Updated: Jan 11

Drone photography has transformed real estate marketing. High-resolution aerial images and video show location, scale, and surroundings in ways ground photography simply cannot. When done correctly, drones add real value to listings, developments, and commercial projects.

What many people do not realize is that commercial drone work is regulated under aviation law. It is not a hobby. It is not “just flying a drone.” There are certifications, legal requirements, airspace rules, safety procedures, and real consequences for getting it wrong.

Here is what is actually involved when you hire a professional drone pilot.

FAA Certification Is Required

Any drone flight conducted for commercial purposes in the United States must be flown by a pilot who holds an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate under Part 107.

To earn this certification, a pilot must:

Pass a comprehensive aeronautical knowledge exam
Be at least 16 years old
Pass a TSA background security vetting
Maintain current certification with required recurrent training

Licensed pilots are trained in airspace classifications, weather analysis, emergency procedures, risk management, and aviation law. This is the foundation of safe and legal drone operations.

Professional pilots also carry commercial drone insurance, similar in cost and importance to car insurance. This protects the property owner, the client, and the public.

Every Flight Requires Planning

There is no such thing as “just showing up and flying” when it comes to legal drone operations.

Before everyReal Estate listing flight, a professional drone pilot must assess:

Weather conditions, including wind, visibility, and cloud ceilings
Local airspace classifications and restrictions
Temporary Flight Restrictions issued by the FAA
Property-specific hazards such as people, power lines, buildings, and traffic
Safe takeoff, landing, and emergency procedures

Everyone involved in the operation must understand operating conditions, potential hazards, and emergency protocols. This is required under federal law and is a key reason professional pilots operate differently from hobby flyers.

Airspace Restrictions Are Real, Especially in Sarasota

Sarasota is an active aviation area, particularly within the 5-mile radius of Sarasota Bradenton International Airport.

Flying in controlled airspace requires:

Staying below 400 feet above ground level
Obtaining FAA authorization through the LAANC system
Avoiding restricted locations such as emergency zones, military areas, or temporary flight restriction zones

These restrictions can change at any time due to emergency activity, weather events, or air traffic conditions. Even a properly scheduled shoot can be grounded if conditions change. This is normal and part of operating safely.

The Consequences of Flying Illegally Are Severe

Flying without proper authorization or certification is not a small infraction.

Potential consequences include:

Fines up to $30,000
Confiscation of the drone
Suspension or permanent revocation of FAA certification
Legal liability for property damage or injury
Possible criminal charges in serious cases

This is why hiring a licensed, insured, and experienced pilot matters. The risk is real, and it extends to property owners and agents if illegal operations occur on their property.

Why Professional Drone Photography Matters

Professional drone pilots are trained to operate safely, legally, and efficiently while delivering imagery that enhances a listing rather than putting anyone at risk.

At Bird Real Estate Media, all drone work is performed by FAA-certified pilots who understand airspace, safety protocols, and local regulations. We handle the authorizations, planning, and compliance so you get professional aerial visuals without stress or liability.

Drone photography is a powerful tool when done right. It is aviation, not a toy.

If you have questions about drone services for your listings, developments, or commercial properties, contact us at sales@bird-solutions.com.