Drones can now legally film real estate for the first time

12 Jan 2015 • engadget.com

There are strict conditions on the Arizona realtor, however. Confirming an earlier rumor, Tierra’s drone pilot will need to have a valid private pilot permit, and must keep the drone in site at all times. (Quick rant: as a pilot myself, the former restriction sounds draconian – getting such a license can take years and cost more than $10,000. It also seems like massive overkill for a sub-10-pound aircraft; does a drone pilot really need to know what “turbulence penetration speed” is? That said, I am in favor of some kind of certification similar to a course for getting a boating or hunting license. End of rant.)

$10,000 and years of training for a sub-10-pound aircraft does sound a bit draconian. I drive a 4,000 pound vehicle everyday and I think my license only cost a few bucks. Based on how some people drive I think they give these things to just about anybody. Maybe there is some middle ground.