Many people are interested in drones but don’t know where to begin or assume it’s only for tech experts. Others buy expensive equipment without understanding the rules or securing paid work.

As of December 2024, nearly 21,000 drone pilots held valid Remote Pilot Certificates in India, and over 150 DGCA-approved training centres now operate across Tier II and III cities.

The truth is, becoming a drone pilot doesn’t require a degree or a large investment up front. With the proper certification and a bit of hands-on training, you can build a career in fields like agriculture, infrastructure inspection, delivery, or filmmaking.

This blog breaks down what a drone pilot is, how you can start from scratch, without wasting time or money so that you can go from curiosity to certified pilot, and eventually, to paid assignments.

Key Takeaways

• In India, commercial drone pilots must complete DGCA-approved training (comprising over 20 hours of theory and practice), pass exams, and obtain a Remote Pilot Licence (valid for 10 years) to operate drones weighing more than 250g.

• Entry-level pilots earn ₹15,000-30,000/month, while specialists in agriculture/inspection can make ₹50,000-1,00,000+. Freelancers charge ₹5,000 to ₹ 20,000 per project.

• Beyond flying, pilots need knowledge of airspace regulations, troubleshooting abilities, and data interpretation skills (such as analysing crop health maps).

• Over 21,000 certified pilots operate in India across various sectors, including agriculture (spraying and monitoring), infrastructure inspection, media, and logistics, with a 30-fold market growth expected by 2030.

• Programmes like Drone Partner from Leher provide training, certification support, and equipment access, enabling beginners to start earning without owning drones (saving ₹2-5 lakh upfront costs).

What is a Drone Pilot?

A drone pilot is a person certified to operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly referred to as drones, for commercial or professional purposes. In India, these pilots often work in various fields, including agriculture, media, inspection, surveying, logistics, and emergency services. This role demands technical skill, regulatory knowledge, and precise flight control.

What Should a Drone Pilot Possess?

Anyone flying a drone heavier than 250g for business must hold a DGCA-issued Remote Pilot Licence (RPL), also known as an RPC.

• Depending on drone weight, drones are grouped into five categories: nano (≤250 g), micro, small, medium, and large. Pilots must train and qualify according to their drone category.

• Duties include pre-flight checks, airspace planning, flight execution, equipment management, and recording data or imagery.

What Opportunities Lie Ahead in India?

Government schemes like the century-old Namo Drone Didi scheme support the rapid expansion of the drone sector in India by empowering women in agriculture.

• By 2030, the drone training market in India is projected to grow from $12 million (in 2022) to nearly $349 million.

• Skilled pilots are needed across various sectors, including agriculture, logistics, surveillance, mapping, cinematography, infrastructure, and defence.

In India, a drone pilot is a formally certified professional charged with the safe, lawful, and skilled operation of UAVs across various fields. With India’s drone ecosystem rapidly maturing, aspiring pilots who specialise and accumulate practical work stand to unlock diverse and rewarding career options.

To succeed in this field, a few basic skills and official certifications are required. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to get started the right way.

What are the Required Skills and Certifications for a Successful Drone Pilot Career?

Embarking on a drone pilot career means acquiring a blend of technical and soft skills along with formal certifications, particularly in India, where government licensing and regulations play a major role.

1. Flight Control & Spatial Judgement

Proficiency in manual and automated flight operations, including take-off, landing, and manoeuvres in diverse conditions. Strong spatial awareness to navigate obstacles and plan efficient flight paths.

2. Technical Insight & Troubleshooting

Deep familiarity with drone hardware (motors, sensors, battery systems) and software. Fast problem-solving skills to handle in-flight issues like system errors or battery failures.

3. Regulatory & Airspace Awareness

Solid knowledge of DGCA’s Drone Rules 2021: weight categories, flight zones (Green/Yellow/Red), NPNT protocols, UIN/UAOP registration.

4. Aerial Imaging & Mapping

Skills in camera settings, framing, and video composition. Experience with mapping software (e.g., Pix4D, DroneDeploy) and basic data interpretation for surveying, agriculture, or inspection.

5. Soft Skills: Focus & Discipline

Drone pilots maintain steady focus by following pre-flight checklists and flight routines, and they remain composed under pressure or during emergencies.

6. Communication & Coordination

Clear communication with clients, team members, and airspace officials, particularly during BVLOS missions or complex flights.

Mandatory Certifications in India

Mandatory for commercial or professional drone operations above 250 g. Requires training at a DGCA-approved Remote Pilot Training Organisation (RPTO), then passing theoretical and practical exams.

1. Digital Sky Platform Registrations

UIN for each drone; UAOP required for operations in controlled zones. NPNT compliance: Drones must be cleared to take off through flight plan approval.

2. Medical Fitness Certificate & ID

Candidates must pass a basic medical examination (including vision and hearing tests) and provide documents such as their Aadhaar or a passport.

3. Insurance (Recommended)

Many clients and employers ask for liability insurance to cover accidental damage.

Optional but Valuable Credentials

The optional and valuable credentials of a drone pilot are as follows:

1. International Certificates (FAA Part 107, EASA) open gates to global drone work.

2. Specialised Training: courses in cinematography, precision agriculture, BVLOS, or industrial inspections improve employability.

3. Instructor of Operations Management Courses can lead to roles in teaching or running drone fleets.

Also Read: A Complete Guide on Agriculture Drones

A drone pilot in India must pair flight expertise and technical know‑how with regulatory certification. Beyond the RPL and platform registration, the most sought-after pilots bring skills in aerial imaging, mapping, and clear communication.

After training and licensing, drone pilots manage several tasks on the ground and in the air. Let’s take a closer look at what a typical workday includes.

What are the Responsibilities of a Drone Pilot?

A drone pilot operates UAVs to collect data, capture footage, support inspections, or provide surveillance. In India, this involves both hands-on flight duties and administrative tasks, governed by the Drone Rules 2021 of the DGCA.

1. Pre‑Flight Strategy & Planning

Craft flight routes tailored to mission goals, mapping, photography, inspection, or spraying. Evaluate weather, airspace classification (Green/Yellow/Red zones), and obstacles to confirm legal compliance.

2. Equipment Inspection & Setup

Examine drone components, including motors, sensors, batteries, and NPNT compatibility, before each flight to ensure optimal performance. Confirm the presence of an ID plate, GPS, return-to-home mechanism, and geo-fencing features for regulatory safety purposes.

3. Flight Operation

Control take-off, navigation along planned paths, and landing, keeping it within visual line of sight (VLOS). Monitor flights in real-time, anticipating obstacles or weather changes, and handle emergencies such as signal loss or low battery.

4. Data Capture & Quality Assurance

Operate onboard cameras, LiDARs, and multispectral sensors, depending on the mission. Review captured data for clarity and coverage, ensuring mission objectives are met.

5. Record-Keeping & Compliance

Maintain detailed flight logs, including date, time, location, duration, pilot ID, outcome, and any issues that may have occurred. Report incidents, losses, crashes, and near misses to the DGCA, local police, or BCAS promptly.

6. Drone Maintenance & Repair

Follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedules, repair damaged parts, and verify firmware and software updates before operating the device.

7. Communication & Coordination

Liaise with clients or teammates to clarify mission requirements and relay progress. Coordinate with visual observers, air traffic control, or local authorities if flights enter controlled or sensitive zones.

8. Data Security & Environmental Responsibility

Securely manage and store collected data with encryption and controlled access. Prevent pollution and battery hazards by disposing of components and consumables in accordance with environmental regulations. Adhere to no-fly zones, privacy norms, and maintain respectful operations over private or restricted lands.

Optional Duties for Advanced Roles

Assist with flight-focused tasks such as cinematography strategy, precision crop spraying, or utility inspections.

• Use mapping software (e.g., Pix4D, DroneDeploy) or photogrammetry tools to transform data into actionable insights.

• Serve as a mentor or trainer at RPTOs, sharing flight protocols and regulatory updates to support safe and efficient operations.

A drone pilot balances technical operations, flight, data capture, and maintenance with administrative rigour tasks such as route planning, compliance, incident logging, and client coordination. In India, mandates such as NPNT, DGCA registration, and safety protocols add layers of responsibility.

Leher handles both operations and compliance, making this easier for you. Through its Drone Partner Programme, over 100 trained entrepreneurs have already offered drone services across more than 30,000 acres. Leher assists with pilot training, DGCA-compliant certifications, route planning, and job access, allowing you to focus more on flying and earning, rather than on paperwork.

Download the Leher app from Google Play or Apple Store.

If you're ready to take the first step, here’s a simple guide to the process, from enrolling in a training course to obtaining certification from the proper authorities.

How to Become a Licensed Drone Pilot in India?

A Licensed Drone Pilot in India is a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) holder authorised under DGCA’s Drone Rules 2021. This licence permits the professional operation of drones weighing more than 250g across designated zones.

1. Confirm Eligibility

Must be at least 18 years old and have passed Class 10 or equivalent. Obtain a basic medical certificate (vision and general health) from a registered medical practitioner. Secure required identification documents (e.g., Aadhaar or passport) and Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) security clearance for commercial operations.

2. Register on Digital Sky

Create a Remote Pilot profile on Digital Sky and pay the application fee. After training, the RPTO will file your Remote Pilot Licence (RPL) application via the platform.

3. Attend DGCA‑Approved RPTO Training

The course includes air rules, meteorology, flight practice, plus simulator sessions. The training includes initial theory, simulator and practical tests, followed by live flight assessments.

4. Pass Theory and Practical Exams

The theory exam covers airspace zones, drone mechanics, radio telephony, and flight principles (including rotorcraft and fixed-wing). The practical test includes simulator proficiency, manual flight tasks, emergency handling, and landing.

5. Receive Remote Pilot Licence

After passing exams, DGCA issues your RPC via Digital Sky, typically valid for 10 years. The DGCA categorises licences by drone weight/capability:

• Category 1 (Basic): small drones (< 25 kg), VLOS, ≤400 ft AGL

• Category 2 (Special): medium drones (< 150 kg), BVLOS, any zone

• Category 3 (Advanced): large drones (> 150 kg), BVLOS, advanced ops.

6. Register Drone and Apply Permissions

Register non-nano drones on Digital Sky to receive a Unique Identification Number (UIN). For flying outside green zones or above the nano category, obtain a UAOP and use the NPNT app for flight permission.

You can become a licensed drone pilot in India by completing these steps: confirming eligibility, training at an approved RPTO, passing theory and flight assessments, registering with Digital Sky, and receiving your certificate.

Keeping track of licence category, drone registration (UIN), and flight permissions (UAOP) prepares you to operate professionally across various industries, including cinematography, agriculture, surveying, and inspections.

One of the biggest questions for anyone starting a new job is: “What can I earn?” Let’s look at the income potential for drone pilots working in agriculture and related sectors.

How Much Can a Drone Pilot Earn?

Drone pilot earnings in India vary widely, depending on experience, specialisation, employment type (full-time vs freelance), and the industry served. Monthly take-home pay can range from modest starting incomes to lucrative payouts for seasoned operators.

1. Entry-Level (0–2 Years)

Salaries typically range between ₹1.8 lakh and ₹4 lakh annually, equivalent to approximately ₹12,500 to ₹33,000 per month. Indeed, the average salary is reported to be ₹2.33 lakh per year.

2. Mid-Level (2–5+ Years)

The financial growth of a mid-level drone pilot is ₹4 lakh to ₹8 lakh per year. Survey drone pilots in niche sectors may earn up to ₹20 lakh per year or more.

Sector & Work-Type Variations

Salaries depend on the employer and sector. Infrastructure or defence roles often pay more, while roles in agriculture or events pay modestly. Freelancers in India may earn ₹5,000–₹20,000 per project.

Maximise Earnings with Practical Tips

Develop a niche skill set and obtain certifications in thermal imaging, mapping, or cinematic drone operations.

• Creating strong portfolio pieces is key to winning higher-paying contracts.

• Combine full-time roles with side freelance income to diversify revenue streams.

• Stay informed about emerging government schemes (like Drone Didi) and join tenders.

Optimising skills, targeting niche markets, and combining different income streams accelerate growth in this evolving field.

Also Read: Agriculture Drones Prices in India 2025

With your licence in hand, there are several paths you can take. Here are the most in-demand roles for which drone pilots are currently being hired in India.

What are the Top Career Opportunities for Licensed Drone Pilots?

A licensed drone pilot in India can explore diverse roles across various sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, defence, media, logistics, and environmental protection. Opportunities range from field operations to data-driven consulting and technical training.

1. Agriculture & Precision Farming

Monitor crop health, assess soil quality, and apply pesticides or fertilisers as needed. Roles available in agritech startups, ICAR, state departments, KVKs, and under schemes like Drone Didi, where UP’s women pilots have earned over ₹3 lakh in 10 months by spraying on 2,500+ acres.

2. Infrastructure, Construction & Surveying

Conduct mapping, site monitoring, 3D modelling, and progress tracking. Employers include major builders such as L&T, Adani, and Tata Projects, as well as smart-city agencies. A Pune pilot with LiDAR drones covered 97 quarries, creating geo-referenced maps and boosting revenue accuracy in mining monitoring.

3. Energy & Industrial Inspection

Inspect solar farms, wind turbines, pipelines, and telecom towers. Services are in demand from utility companies and government agencies. The global industrial drone inspection market is projected to grow from $746 million in 2024 to $4.6 billion by 2035, at an 18% CAGR.

4. Defence, Security & Public Safety

Surveillance, reconnaissance, border, or crowd monitoring for DRDO, BSF, CRPF, police, and disaster response units. DRDO’s Netra UAV is widely used in rescue and surveillance operations.

5. Media, Film & Real Estate

Capture aerial footage for movies, advertisements, events, and real estate listings. Pilots with photography or cinematography skills are in demand in media houses and agencies.

6. Logistics & Delivery

Emerging roles in last-mile delivery for startups like Dunzo, Swiggy, Flipkart, and medical drone pioneers.  India’s drone services market is projected to rise sharply across sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, and utilities, though precise forecasts vary.

7. Environmental Conservation & Disaster Response

Monitor wildlife, forests, and assist in flood and fire mapping, as well as rescue operations. Employed by NDMA, NDRF, environmental NGOs, and ecological research groups. Drone surveillance reduces infrastructure monitoring costs in Indian cities by up to 40% while improving data collection speed.

8. Mining & Oil & Gas Exploration

Use drones for volumetric measurement, stockpile tracking, tailings-dam inspection, and real-time site monitoring. Drone surveying globally is expected to reach $1.97 billion by 2025 and $11.5 billion by 2035, with infrastructure mapping experiencing growth above the average 19.3% CAGR.

9. Training, Manufacturing & Consultancy

Teach at RPTOs or NCC/SKILL domains, or work in drone manufacturing, maintenance, compliance, or as a data analyst/software specialist. India’s drone analytics market reached approximately $841 million in 2024 and is projected to reach $3.25 billion by 2030, growing at a rate of around 25% annually.

Licensed drone pilots in India have a broad scope, encompassing agriculture and infrastructure inspection, filmmaking, defence, logistics, and conservation.

Government-backed programmes (Drone Didi, NCC centres), combined with rapid sector growth, mean rising demand. Pilots with niche expertise, mapping, BVLOS, and cinematic operations will enjoy greater opportunities and better earnings.

Starting new can feel frightening. Leher offers training, equipment access, and work opportunities to help you build your drone career step by step.

How Leher Can Help You Start Your Drone Pilot Career?

Many people are interested in flying drones but get stuck figuring out how to get certified, where to train, or how to find honest work. Some invest in drones without knowing the rules or having a plan to earn from them. Others give up before they even start.

Leher makes it easier for beginners to get trained, certified, and earn money using agricultural drones, without the high upfront costs or guesswork.

Here’s how Leher helps you go from curious to career-ready in simple steps:

• Learn From the Ground Up: No prior experience? No problem. Leher offers hands-on training from experts. You’ll learn flight handling, safety, crop spraying, and basic troubleshooting, practical knowledge that helps you start strong.

• Get Certified Without the Stress: Leher guides you through the DGCA drone certification process. You don’t have to figure it out alone. The team supports you in applying, training, and obtaining a license to fly legally across India.

• No Need to Buy a Drone: Drones cost lakhs, and maintenance is another headache. With Leher’s Drone Partner Programme, you don’t need to own a drone. You get access to equipment and bookings through Leher’s platform and earn from day one.

• Get Jobs, Not Just Training: What’s the use of training if there’s no work? Leher connects trained drone pilots directly with farmers who need spraying services. You don’t waste time looking for clients; the platform brings work to you.

• Build a Steady Income: Many of Leher’s drone partners earn a consistent monthly income by servicing multiple farms. During peak seasons, your drone work becomes even more in demand. It's an opportunity to be self-employed and build your own business, even in rural areas.

Ready to launch your drone career without wasting time or money? Download the Leher app from the Play Store and Apple Store, or schedule a free call with our experts to get started today.

FAQs

1. Do I need a college degree to become a professional drone pilot in India?

No, a degree is not mandatory. What you need is a DGCA-approved Remote Pilot Certificate from a recognised training organisation (RTO). Skills, certifications, and flight hours matter more than formal education in this field.

2. Can I start a career as a drone pilot without owning a drone?

Yes. Many drone training academies provide students with equipment during their training. Post-certification, you can work for agri-tech companies, survey firms, or drone service providers that supply drones. Freelancers can also rent drones for specific projects.

3. What kind of income can I expect as a beginner drone pilot?

Entry-level drone pilots in India can earn approximately ₹15,000–₹30,000/month initially. In high-demand sectors like agriculture, mapping, or inspections, experienced pilots earn approximately ₹50,000–₹1,00,000 per month or more, especially with specialised skills.

4. Is drone flying the only skill I need to succeed as a pilot?

No. You also need knowledge of airspace regulations, data handling (such as NDVI maps in agriculture), basic hardware troubleshooting, and effective client communication. Many projects value pilots who understand both flying and data interpretation.

5. Are there government or startup programmes that help beginners become drone pilots?

Yes. India’s Digital Sky Platform, under the DGCA, supports licensing. Startups like Garuda Aerospace, IG Drones, and DroneAcharya offer training and job placements. Some states also run skilling programmes for youth in agri-drone piloting.