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I often get asked about the PRO Level III Certification from the Unmanned Safety Institute (USI) and whether obtaining an industry certification like this can help remote operators stand out. My answer is a resounding YES, especially if you're looking to differentiate yourself from other remote pilots and demonstrate a commitment to safety and professionalism to your clients.


To me, the Professional Remote Operator® (PRO) Certification signifies safety, reliability, quality assurance, and a competitive edge over other remote pilots. The future of the UAS industry lies in intelligent, enterprise-scale operations that make aerial platforms accessible for gathering and delivering critical information. A program like PRO is essential for achieving sustained commercial acceptance and legitimacy in the UAS field.


The Unmanned Safety Institute is a global leader in remote pilot training and certifications, and the PRO Certification program offers an elite credential for remote pilots who want to distinguish themselves from those who only hold an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate. The PRO program certifies that remote pilots not only have the knowledge to safely operate Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) but also possess the skills to operate proficiently within the National Airspace System (NAS).


PRO certificate holders are recognized by USI and the broader UAS community as elite professionals who have demonstrated their expertise and have been independently verified by USI, an authoritative aviation auditing body.


To earn PRO certification, remote pilots must meet several prerequisites:

  • Learn: Fulfill all educational requirements corresponding to the certification level.

  • Earn: Obtain the necessary airman certification from the FAA.

  • Practice: Accumulate flight hours and experience to refine piloting skills.

  • Promote: Engage actively in the safety community, take on greater responsibilities, and pursue ongoing professional development.


Beyond the prerequisites, candidates must also document their flight hours and complete at least 150 hours of educational units in aeronautical knowledge, covering areas such as Crew Resource Management (CRM) and Aeronautical Decision Making (ADM). Additionally, PRO certificate holders are required to earn 4 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).


USI offers four PRO certification levels based on the number of hours a remote pilot has flown, ranging from 50 to 1,000 hours, along with their years of professional flight experience:


  1. PRO Basic: Open to individuals with at least 50 flight hours on a specific UAS.

  2. PRO Level 1 (Silver): For those with at least 250 flight hours on a specific or combination of UAS.

  3. PRO Level 2 (Bronze): Available for individuals with at least 500 flight hours on a specific or combination of UAS.

  4. PRO Level 3 (Gold): For those with at least 1,000 flight hours on a specific or combination of UAS.


Obtaining a PRO certification from USI can elevate your career significantly. Remote pilots interested in advancing their careers through PRO certification can apply online at https://www.flyusi.org/


Michael Hill is the Founder / CEO of Uncrewed Aerospace, an award-winning Drone Technology Company, that helps clients integrate Uncrewed Technology & Ai on the land, in the air, and at sea. Follow our work at www.uncrewedaerospace.com #TheDronePro

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