"From filming live events to monitoring wildlife habitats, surveying inaccessible terrain, or inspecting remote power lines, drone usage, both recreational and commercial, is definitely on the rise.
Prospective operators, however, particularly those interested in flying drones commercially, must adhere to specific guidelines set down by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
To help prepare drone operators to pass the FFA Aeronautical Knowledge Test for a remote pilot certificate, Amarillo College this summer is introducing Drone Pilot License Prep classes through its Continuing Education Division.
Classes are one week in duration, from 6-10 p.m. on AC’s West Campus, Building C, Room 125. They are offered during the following weeks: June 4-8, June 25-29 and July 23-27. Students must be at least 18 years of age.
The classes are designed to help prepare students to pass the FAA’s Aeronautical Knowledge Test (for part 107) for small, unmanned aerial vehicles (sUAV). This is a requirement for becoming an FAA-licensed drone pilot.
“Basically, if you want to operate a drone commercially, the FAA requires you to have a license,” said Russell Davis, who, in association with Route 66 Aviation, will serve as class instructor.
“Almost anybody can fly a drone, but there is a learning curve for passing the FAA exam, and that will be our focus,” Davis said.
This class will over everything from sUAV laws to emergency procedures. Drone operations, including components, controls and battery considerations, will be the topic on Day 1.
Students may carry their own drones to class, but Davis said he will provide a few extra drones that students will be able to use.
For more information about Drone Pilot License Prep classes, or any other Continuing Education classes at Amarillo College, please call (806) 371-2904."
-Amarillo College
