Owning a Successful Drone Business: Key Tips for New Drone Pilots

Read our new guest blog featuring leading drone business owners. Meet Austin Campbell, the owner of Campbell Aerial, a Kansas City, MO-based media company specializing in real estate media production and creating engaging video ads for local businesses.

As a commercial drone pilot in Kansas City, MO, I’ve learned that flying a drone is just the beginning. While mastering the art of piloting is crucial, due to the rapidly growing number of drone pilots in our industry, piloting skills alone simply won’t be enough to ensure a successful business. Here are some key pieces of advice for new drone pilots looking to grow their business.

1. Diversify Your Services

The most important lesson I learned the hard way is that being a drone pilot isn’t enough to have a successful business. You need to combine your drone skills with other services. As mentioned above, our industry is growing larger and larger by the day. With so many drone pilots available, pairing drone services with others could give you the competitive edge you need. For example, pairing aerial photo/video for real estate, weddings, and events with ground photography could significantly expand your client base. Alternatively, consider providing services like mapping, surveying, and inspections for industries such as agriculture, construction, and utilities. When I first got my Pt.107 and started my company, I naively thought drone jobs would come POURING in, after all, I’m a licensed drone pilot now, I have a background in sales, have a college degree in marketing, this will be a CAKEWALK! As I quickly learned while prospecting and visiting local real estate offices pitching my services, nobody wants JUST drone services. The realtors want a drone pilot that is also well-versed in interior real estate photography, businesses typically prefer ads with drone and ground camera angles, I learned quickly for my business to survive, I had to adapt.

2. Invest in Quality Equipment

Having the right equipment can make a world of difference. Invest in high-quality drones and cameras that can deliver excellent results. Additionally, ensure you have the necessary accessories, such as extra batteries, propellers, and storage solutions. Reliable equipment not only enhances your service quality but also builds trust with your clients.

3. Build a Strong Online Presence

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is essential. Create a professional website showcasing your portfolio, services, and client testimonials. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to share your work and engage with potential clients. Regularly updating your online profiles with high-quality content can help attract new business.

4. Network and Collaborate

‍Networking is a powerful tool for growing your business. Attend industry events, join local business groups, and connect with other professionals in your area. Collaborating with other businesses, such as real estate agents, event planners, and marketing agencies, can open up new opportunities and lead to referrals.

5. Stay Compliant and Insured

Ensure you are compliant with all regulations and have the necessary certifications, such as the Part 107 license. Additionally, having proper insurance coverage is crucial to protect yourself and your clients. Staying compliant and insured not only demonstrates professionalism but also provides peace of mind to your clients.

6. Focus on Customer Service

Excellent customer service can set you apart from the competition. Be responsive, professional, and reliable. Listen to your clients’ needs and go the extra mile to exceed their expectations. Happy clients are more likely to recommend your services to others, leading to more business. In conclusion, growing a successful drone business requires more than just having the license. By diversifying your services, investing in quality equipment, building a strong online presence, networking, staying compliant, and focusing on customer service, you can set your business up for success. Remember, the sky's the limit!

Business Profile

Personal Bio:

Austin Campbell grew up in Centerview, MO, a small rural town about 40 miles from KC. While not having an interest in athletics, Austin found his passion in making and producing music at the age of 16 under the name “AC Trigger.” Amassing a total of over 130,000 streams across 89 countries, Austin made his mark in the underground hip-hop community. While doing photoshoots, music videos, and filming and participating in group dirt bike and ATV rides, Austin found his passion for photo and video editing, particularly in Adobe’s Creative Cloud, which he still loves to this day. When Austin isn’t flying his drone or behind the camera, he is a skilled technician, having extensive knowledge in hydraulic systems, electrical systems, and engine repair.

Professional Bio:

Austin Campbell is the owner of Campbell Aerial, a Kansas City, MO based media company — specializing in real estate media production and creating engaging video ads for local businesses. Austin has spent over 7 years mastering photo and video editing before launching his company in 2024. Austin is a licensed Pt. 107 commercial drone pilot and has countless hours behind the controller, completing authorized flights in many different airspace classifications and locations across Missouri.

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