What must a Remote Pilot have to operate a UAS commercially?

To operate a Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) commercially, a Remote Pilot must possess a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. This certificate, established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), is specifically designed for operators of small UAS weighing less than 55 pounds. It outlines the knowledge and skills necessary for safe and legal commercial flight operations.

Obtaining this certification involves passing a comprehensive knowledge test focused on aeronautical knowledge, regulations applicable to UAS operations, weather, airspace classification, and safe operating practices. Therefore, it ensures that Remote Pilots understand the legal and safety protocols essential for conducting commercial drone operations, making it the required credential for such activities.

Other pilot certification types, like a Private Pilot License or a Commercial Pilot License, do not specifically allow for or relate directly to the operation of UAS under Part 107 rules. A Drone Operator Certificate, which may imply a generic certification for flying drones, does not exist as a recognized document by the FAA and does not meet the necessary regulatory framework for commercial operations. Thus, the Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is the correct and required certification for individuals wishing to operate a UAS commercially.