What Is Part 107
and Why It Matters
The difference between a hobby drone flight and a professional aerial shoot isn't just skill — it's FAA certification, insurance, and legal compliance.
What Is FAA Part 107?
Part 107 is the section of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR Part 107) that governs commercial drone operations in the United States. If you are flying a drone for business — including real estate photography, videography, inspections, or mapping — you are required to operate under Part 107.
It's the Law
Flying drones commercially without Part 107 certification violates FAA regulations and can result in significant fines.
Insurance Requirements
Most liability insurance policies for drone work require the pilot to hold a valid Part 107 certificate.
Airspace Awareness
Licensed pilots understand controlled airspace, NOTAMs, LAANC authorization, and no-fly zones.
Professional Results
Certification is proof that your pilot takes the job seriously — from safety to shot quality.
Hobby vs. Commercial: The Critical Difference
Flying a drone for fun in your backyard is very different from flying one to capture a $2 million lakefront listing. Hobby pilots operate under the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations and are not allowed to use their footage for commercial purposes. Even if a pilot has years of recreational experience, they cannot legally sell aerial photos or video without a Part 107 certificate.
Real estate agents and homeowners should always ask to see a pilot's Remote Pilot Certificate before hiring them for aerial work. It protects you from liability and ensures your marketing content was produced lawfully.
What It Takes to Get Certified
The Part 107 certification process is rigorous for a reason. Pilots study aviation weather, sectional charts, airport operations, radio communications, and emergency protocols. The FAA test is not easy — it requires real knowledge of how the national airspace system works.
After passing the exam, pilots must stay current with recurring training and recertification. The certificate also authorizes the pilot to request airspace clearance through LAANC, which is essential in areas like Branson where airports, heliports, and tourism traffic create complex flying conditions.
Flying in Branson & Table Rock Lake
Branson is surrounded by beautiful but complex airspace. The Branson Airport (BKG), downtown helicopter tours, and seasonal seaplane activity all make it essential for drone pilots to understand restrictions and obtain proper authorization. A Part 107 pilot knows how to check airspace, file LAANC requests, and coordinate safely so your shoot can happen without legal or safety issues.
Why Hire a Licensed Pilot for Real Estate?
Aerial photography sells homes faster and at higher prices — especially in markets like Branson and Table Rock Lake where the water, hills, and outdoor lifestyle are the main selling points. But drone shots are only valuable if they are captured safely and legally.
A Part 107 certified pilot brings more than just a drone. They bring a working understanding of regulations, risk management, and flight planning. If something goes wrong, you want a professional who knows how to respond — not a hobbyist with a YouTube tutorial and a weekend drone.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious of anyone who offers drone services but cannot produce a Remote Pilot Certificate, refuses to carry liability insurance, or is unsure about airspace restrictions. These are signs of an unlicensed operator, and the risk falls on you as the property owner or listing agent.
Fly With Confidence
At MarkedHomes, every aerial photo and video is captured by a FAA Part 107 certified pilot with full liability insurance. We don't just fly for the shot — we plan for the airspace, the weather, and the safety of your property and neighbors. That is the standard your listing deserves.