Drones aren’t just cool gadgets; they can be powerful tools to generate income or even launch a business. With some creativity and the right approach, the opportunities are vast. Before you dive in, though, it’s wise to check local regulations, as there might be restrictions to keep in mind.
If you’re ready to turn your passion into profit, here are seven of the best ways to make money with a drone.
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How to Make Money with a Drone?
Making money with a drone is becoming increasingly popular as the technology becomes more accessible. One of the most common ways to monetize your drone skills is by offering aerial photography and videography services.
These services are in high demand for real estate listings, weddings, and events, as well as for creating promotional content for businesses. Additionally, drones can be used for surveying land, inspecting infrastructure like power lines and pipelines, and even assisting in agricultural tasks such as crop monitoring.
Another lucrative option is selling your aerial footage to stock photo and video websites. High-quality drone shots are often purchased by marketers, filmmakers, and content creators looking for unique visuals.
Some drone pilots also earn money by creating and selling online courses or offering training sessions for aspiring drone pilots. With the rise of social media, becoming a content creator on platforms like YouTube or Instagram, where you share your drone footage, can also lead to income through ads and sponsorships.
7 Easy Ways to Make Money with a Drone
Here are 7 ways that may help you make money with drones. If you are a drone enthusiast and own a drone, you can make money with it as a hobby.
1. YouTube Channel Monetization
Drone footage can attract millions of views on YouTube, as seen with popular videos like Future Ideas & Technology’s Hoverbike video (over 20.5 million views) and Drone Hub’s fireworks display (18.5 million views).
By consistently creating engaging drone videos, you can launch your own YouTube channel, join the platform’s partnership program, and start earning revenue from ads. The key is to hone your drone skills and keep your content fresh and exciting.
2. Delivery Services
Major companies like Amazon and AliExpress, as well as national institutions and charities, are exploring or already using drones for deliveries. Drones are particularly useful for reaching remote areas where traditional vehicles might struggle or prove too costly.
If you own a drone, you can start offering delivery services to small businesses or even volunteer for charitable deliveries, which could be the foundation of a new business venture.
3. Search and Rescue
Drones have proven invaluable in search and rescue operations. For example, during a rescue mission in Virginia, drones played a crucial role. The search was for 82-year-old Guillermo DeVenecia, who suffered from dementia and had gone missing. Despite using traditional search methods, including dogs and a helicopter, rescuers were unable to locate him.
However, within just 20 minutes of deploying a drone equipped with a camera, the operator successfully found DeVenecia, showcasing the technology’s potential in such critical situations.
4. Video Monitoring and Surveillance
A American surveillance operator can earn up to $50,000 annually. These professionals traditionally rely on stationary cameras to monitor areas, but drones are now revolutionizing their work by offering enhanced efficiency.
Many large companies have already begun employing drone pilots to monitor extensive areas. With the addition of thermal imaging cameras, drones provide even more effective surveillance. Companies find it more cost-effective to hire a single drone operator rather than rely on constant traditional camera surveillance, which has its limitations.
5. Advertising
Drones are becoming a powerful tool for advertising. While holographic advertisements are still a thing of the future, banners and logos displayed in the sky are becoming increasingly popular. Companies are willing to invest significant sums to have their branding flown across the horizon.
You can create eye-catching advertising campaigns using drones. Even without a camera, you can start earning by offering this service. If you do have a high-quality camera, you can expand your offerings by providing video footage of the campaign, adding more value to your clients.
6. Video Production and Filmmaking
Aerial photography and videography are rapidly gaining popularity in the creative industry. Artistic video clips and short films shot from the sky can be a lucrative business if you have the necessary photography and editing skills.
High-resolution drones, such as the Phantom 3 Professional with 4K video at 30 frames per second, or a GoPro camera mounted on a drone, like the GoPro Hero 4 with 4K Ultra HD video, can deliver stunning results.
Freelance platforms often feature clients seeking skilled drone operators for video production. Depending on the project, even a short clip of less than a minute can earn you more than a full day of traditional work. To start, explore freelance websites like freelancer.com, mindbites.com, and other platforms that connect professionals with potential clients.
7. Professional Inspections
Certain structures require detailed inspections, especially those set for demolition, damaged by natural disasters, or compromised in their structural integrity. Before any action is taken, it’s essential to assess these buildings to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Drones are increasingly being used for these types of inspections because they allow for a close, thorough examination without putting people in harm’s way. With a drone, you can provide a safer and more efficient inspection process, making it an attractive service for construction companies and insurance agencies.
How to Start Making Money with a Drone?
Starting a drone inspection business is relatively low-cost, as drones are available at various price points to suit different needs. You can select a drone that fits the specific type of inspections you wish to offer.
However, in the U.S., you must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate to legally operate a drone for commercial purposes. This certification is essential if you plan to earn money through drone services.
Drone Launch Academy offers a comprehensive prep course to help you pass the certification exam. They’re confident in their training, offering a full refund, including the $150 exam fee, if you don’t pass.
