The Drone Training Landscape 2017

Here at Heliguy, we’ve been providing machine-specific drone training courses since 2015 and have already seen the market change rapidly. Wider awareness of drones as a commercial tool has created more demand for training and, as businesses discover the true value of aerial services, the type of enquiries we receive have also evolved. With a greater knowledge of drone services proliferated by the media and savvy online marketing comes the likelihood that 2017 will be a big year for innovation as companies try to carve themselves a niche in this increasingly lucrative market. We’ve previously covered the steps being taken by household names such as Amazon and Google to implement unmanned aircraft into their business models. However, it isn’t only marquee brands with infinite budgets who are flocking towards the potential of UAVs; companies and individuals from across the vast and varied commercial and industrial landscape are developing intriguing use cases and, in turn, increasing the viability of drones as profitable assets. One of the latest changes to training queries we have noticed is that mid-to-large companies are looking to send multiple employees on courses to develop targeted drone provision into their business model. These larger clients have done their homework and want to build lasting relationships with a licensed NQE to maintain their operators' skill, receive technical support and also have access to consultancy services for the crucial documentation which must be renewed annually with the CAA. Read on to see our infographic which details how to become a professional operator and also to find out how Heliguy's training courses and services are developing alongside these new demands.

Want to be a Pro? Here's What You Need to Know

So, you’re looking to become a qualified commercial drone operator in the UK? We’ve put together a step by step graphic to show you the process that must be followed to receive your permissions from the Civil Aviation Authority.

This is a basic guide outlining the key steps to becoming a recognised commercial operator. Inevitably, different trainees and business clients will need to cater courses to their individual needs. At Heliguy, we understand this and are available to discuss your requirements. Don't hesitate to contact us using the details at the bottom of this article.

How We’re Adapting

We have always prided ourselves on being at the forefront of an industry in constant flux, keeping up with fast-paced regulatory shifts and market trends. With this as a core principal of our business, it should come as no surprise that moving into 2017, we’ve updated our courses and the services available to those looking at becoming professional operators.  

HELIGUY PfCO TRAINING - FIND OUT MORE 

  Having listened to our previous trainees, we’ve implemented changes in line with their feedback. Our full PfCO course has been condensed into a 3-day intensive Ground School and Theory Exam followed by a separate Flight Test. These training events run from Tuesday to Thursday throughout the year in three UK locations: Newcastle, Manchester and Farnborough.

  After a very positive response, we’re also continuing our Drone Video Editing Course (which you can read more about HERE) to address the skill gap present between image capture and a polished showreel for businesses to present to clients. Our course leader is a professional filmmaker with years of experience including aerial filmmaking and post production. For those taking our Newcastle course, there’s an option to add this on as an extra day. Additionally, we run Bespoke Training for industrial and emergency services clients, leading trainees through real world scenarios catered to their operational environment. You can find out what Cumbria Police thought of our training in our Insider interview. This ability to cater courses to individual business needs has also led us to offer more specific courses as well as the opportunity for people unsatisfied with their current NQE provider to complete their training with Heliguy’s team of experts.  

LOOKING FOR A BESPOKE COURSE? WE CAN HELP

  Heliguy is also looking to expand our long-term support for trainees with consultancy services and ongoing query resolution. For instance, one of the core aspects of any PfCO course is the creation of a detailed Operations Manual which must be renewed year on year and approved by the CAA. We’re currently rolling out a service which will guide you through the renewal process, ensure that you fully understand any changes to regulation and that it is of a standard that will achieve approval. Further drone courses are in the development stage this year with a focus on specific enterprise sectors and more information on these exciting new additions to our training programme will follow in the coming months. 

Get in Touch

Want to find out more? We’re available to discuss all aspects of the drone industry and what steps you need to take to become a commercial operator. Our dedicated UK team are in the office from 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.  

Email: info@heliguy.com

Call: 0191 296 1024

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Keep checking back to Heliguy's Insider blog for more insights into advances being made in the UAV ecosystem, thorough explanations of our services and, of course, the latest news from the drone industry.