Did you know you need a pilot’s license to operate a drone commercially and that you can become a licensed drone pilot by taking the new Three Rivers Drone Pilot Certificate Program? This 36-hour course is designed for anyone interested in earning a small unmanned Aircraft system (sUAS) Pilot Certificate and learning about general aviation. Classes will be held August 26 through September 27 on Mondays and Fridays, from 5:00-9:00 pm.

The ability to operate a drone is a useful skill for those with careers in the military, real estate, videography, insurance, agriculture, public safety, transportation, and more. This course teaches pilots about the operation of drones, including safe take-offs and landings, checking the drone before flight to ensure that it is operating properly, and monitoring the drone while it is being handled. Drone pilot topics include federal regulations, airspace, weather and weather services, radio communication and more. Instruction will take place in a classroom environment as well as outside for a hands-on experience.

At the completion of the course, students will take a final written exam administered by the instructor. Those who pass with a 70% or higher will receive a written endorsement authorizing them to take the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) test for their Drone Pilot Certificate. Students then take their FAA test at a FAA Authorized Testing Center at the Hartford-Brainard Airport Flight School for an additional fee of $150.

Students bring their own drones for the flight-training portion of the course. For full details on the types of drones, extra batteries and textbook information, visit threerivers.edu/drone. The course costs $275, and the FAA test is an additional fee of $150. The deadline to register is August 19. For more information and to register for the class, visit threerivers.edu/drone or call 860-215-9028.