Posted: Fri Sep 6, 2019 10:07pm
A drone pilot license is only required for commercial work or using a drone as part of a business. Recreational not for profit is permitted without a pilot license. The pilot license on it’s own does not permit commercial work. The pilot must work for or be a commercial operator. AESA Operador Autorizado.
The exams include aircraft theory, weather charts, navigating airspace, communicating with air traffic control and safety practices. That takes 60 hours of study. The practical flying is only 6 hours. The entire course is Spanish language. Google translate is allowed.
I went to European Flyers in Mutxamel, Alicante. The license permits the use of drones up to 125kg in weight.
Started in Jan 2018. Passed the theory test in April 2018 and due to weather sat the practical in May 2018. Purchased aircraft insurance in September 2018. Delayed my AESA application for a while they changed to on-line registration. Restarted the application process in March 2019. Obtained approval for commercial work June 2019.
Costs (sit down)
Drone + accessories 1,500 - 2,000€
LAPL pilot medical in Alicante 150€
Pilot license 760€
Aircraft insurance 200€
AESA documentation 350 - 500€ (aviation documents in Spanish)
Commercial work requires a solid business and marketing plan. Theres a few start-up expenses to be recovered.
If you just want to fly about taking pictures for fun buy a DJI Spark. About 500€ with spare batteries and accessories.