Pilot 101 & 301 - Frequently Asked Questions

As part of our commitment to safety, professionalism, and high-quality operations, all Zeitview pilots are now required to complete the Pilot 101 & 301 Training. This FAQ answers the most common questions about the program.

📌 What is the Pilot 101 & 301 Training?

It’s a two-part training series covering:

Pilot 101: Equipment handling, safety protocols, airspace authorizations, professionalism, and communication standards.
Pilot 301: FAA regulations, airspace classifications, Certificate of Authorizations (COAs), Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs), and waiver procedures.

Once completed, you'll receive a badge on your pilot profile showing you're cleared to fly.

🚨 Is this training mandatory?

Yes. All pilots must complete the training to remain eligible for assignments:

New Pilots: Must complete it before receiving any missions.
Existing Pilots: Must complete it within 14 days of receiving the course.

🕒 How long does the training take?

Each module takes approximately 15–20 minutes to complete.

📅 What happens if I don’t complete the training in 14 days?

Your account will be temporarily suspended until training is complete. You will not be eligible to receive missions during the suspension period.

📲 Can I take the training on my phone?

It's preferred to be taken on your personal computer as this was not formatted for mobile devices.

🏅 How do I know I’ve earned the badge?

Once you've completed both trainings:

The badge will be marked on your profile as completed.
If you don’t see it as completed, contact us at pilots@zeitview.com.

🔁 Will I need to complete this training every year?

At this time, it’s a one-time requirement. If refresher training becomes necessary in the future, we’ll notify you.

❌ I’ve flown for Zeitview before. Do I still need this?

Yes. This training ensures all pilots, new or experienced, are aligned on the latest operational expectations and standards.

💬 I’m having trouble accessing or completing the training. What should I do?

Please reach out to our support team at pilots@zeitview.com and we’ll help resolve the issue promptly.

🧰 What equipment am I expected to bring to a mission?

All pilots are recommended to bring:

Extra batteries and chargers
Properly maintained and fully functional drones
Any required PPE (personal protective equipment - safety vest, hard hats, steel-toed boots, etc.)
Protective cases for safe transport
Always perform pre- and post-flight checks

🚫 Can I use the job site’s restroom or facilities?

No. Pilots are prohibited from using client facilities or urinating on-site. Please locate a nearby restroom prior to arriving at the job site.

📎 What happens if I damage company equipment?

Immediately report any damage to the Zeitview Operations team. Pilots are expected to handle company-issued equipment with care. Failure to report issues may result in removal from the pilot roster.

🗺 Do I need to handle airspace authorizations?

It depends:

COA (Certificate of Authorization): Zeitview will apply. You must follow all provisions, such as contacting ATC if required.
LAANC: If eligible, pilots are expected to request LAANC authorization themselves.

Always check requirements ahead of time.

🛑 What do I do if a member of the public confronts me on-site?

Remain calm, courteous, and professional.
Use de-escalation techniques (e.g., active listening, non-threatening posture).
If the situation escalates, leave the area and contact Zeitview immediately.
Document the event using an Incident Report.

🧾 What if I can't upload data the same day?

Upload all mission data by the end of the day the flight took place. If delayed due to technical issues:

Email pilots@zeitview.com right away
Include reason for the delay and expected upload time

Prompt uploads help avoid project delays and customer complaints.

📣 Can I promote my personal brand while flying?

No. Self-branding is not allowed while on-site or representing Zeitview. This includes logos on your apparel, drone, or using personal email/branding with customers.

🌐 I’m an international pilot, do these trainings apply to me?

Yes. While some references (e.g., Part 107, LAANC) are U.S.-specific, the core expectations around safety, professionalism, equipment, and data handling apply globally. Reach out to your local operations contact or pilots@zeitview.com with regional questions.

🗓 Can I complete only one of the two trainings now and do the second later?

Both Pilot 101 and 301 must be completed to receive your badge and remain eligible for assignments. You may complete them at different times, but both must be done within 14 days if you’re an existing pilot.

🧾 Do I need to submit an Incident Report for every issue?

Only for Safety Incidents or UAV-related issues (crashes, injuries, public confrontations, etc.). For general questions or delays, email pilots@zeitview.com.

📄 What is a COA and why do I need to read it?

A COA (Certificate of Authorization) is an FAA-issued document that authorizes drone flights in controlled airspace. It includes:

Altitude limits
Special conditions (e.g., ATC contact)
Maps or radius restrictions

📌 The COA always overrides any shot list instructions — do not exceed COA limits.

⚠️ What are TFRs and how do I avoid them?

Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) are short-term no-fly zones for emergencies, VIP events, or safety reasons.

Always check for TFRs on the day of your mission via NOTAMs.
Entering a TFR without authorization can result in fines or penalties.

🏞 Are there state or local drone laws I need to follow?

Yes. Local jurisdictions may impose additional restrictions. Examples:

NYC: Special permit required
MN, NC, VA: Additional registration/testing
State parks: Often require special permission

It is the pilot’s responsibility to know and comply with regional rules.

✋ What should I do if the shot list conflicts with the COA?

Always follow the COA.

For example, if your shot list calls for 300 ft AGL but the COA limits you to 150 ft AGL — fly at 150 ft or lower. Reach out for guidance if needed.

🧠 What if I don’t understand something in the COA?

Contact pilots@zeitview.com before your flight.

🚫 Not understanding the COA is not an acceptable reason to proceed with a flight that violates it.