✨ Hire a Sydney Drone Operator

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN HIRING A PROFESSIONAL DRONE OPERATOR

Hiring a drone operator is about far more than just having access to a flying camera. You’re bringing on a specialist with the expertise to safely and creatively capture dynamic footage that elevates your production. Whether it’s a TV commercial, a film scene, a luxury property listing, or a live event, every successful aerial shoot begins with solid planning and the right team.

At Flying Glass, we combine extensive aerial filming experience with creative precision and regulatory expertise. We don’t just fly drones — we design and deliver cinematic shots that align with your vision, adhere to CASA regulations, and meet the practical needs of your location, crew, and timeline. Our work has been featured in major film and television productions, real estate campaigns, and high-profile events across Australia.

WHY EXPERIENCE MATTERS

Operating a drone legally in Australia requires more than just pressing a few buttons. Depending on the airspace, location, and intended activity, drone operators may need a RePL (Remote Pilot Licence), hold an Operator’s Certificate (OC), and obtain flight permissions from CASA or local authorities. At Flying Glass, we handle all that for you.

We’ve worked on complex drone shoots across the country — from filming fast-moving boats on Sydney Harbour to capturing FPV sequences in confined indoor environments. That kind of experience means we’re not just reacting to challenges — we’re anticipating and solving them before they become issues on the day.

EVERY PROJECT IS DIFFERENT

Some projects need stunning wide shots of landscapes or properties. Others require close-up tracking shots of vehicles, people, or architectural features. A few might demand a full day of filming with both ground cameras and aerial crews working in sync. That’s why we tailor every quote and every shoot plan based on your specific needs.

If you’re unsure how to brief a drone operator, don’t worry. We’ll guide you through the process, including:

• Understanding your creative goals and the story you’re trying to tell
• Recommending the right drone platform and camera setup
• Assessing the location for risks, obstacles, and permissions
• Offering solutions to shoot efficiently within your budget and schedule

We can also suggest alternative options when weather, location access, or budget constraints get in the way. Our job is to help you get the best possible result — not just turn up and fly.

OUR FLEET: MORE THAN JUST A DRONE

We operate a range of advanced drone systems suited for cinematic work. From the DJI Inspire 3 with full-frame 8K capabilities, to FPV drones for high-speed immersive shots, to heavy-lift systems for RED and ARRI payloads — we’ve got the gear to meet the highest production standards.

Each shoot is backed by full redundancy. That means we bring spare drones, batteries, memory cards, controllers, and everything else needed to keep rolling in case of a technical hiccup. When you’re filming in remote areas or under tight timeframes, that kind of reliability isn’t optional — it’s essential.

SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE

Safety is at the core of everything we do. We assess risk, notify airspace authorities, and secure permissions as needed. If you’re filming in a restricted zone — like near an airport or above a populous area — we can prepare and submit the required CASA applications. This includes complex ops, night flights, and beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) scenarios, if your project requires it.

We also work within your production’s safety protocols and liaise with location managers, councils, or security teams as required. Our crew arrives prepared, briefed, and ready to work within the constraints of your set or event environment.

DRONE FOOTAGE AS PART OF A BIGGER PICTURE

Drone footage isn’t just for cutaways or wide establishing shots. In the right hands, drones are integral storytelling tools — capable of adding energy, perspective, and flow to a scene. We frequently collaborate with DOPs and directors to choreograph drone moves that complement the story, rather than just show off aerial capabilities.

We’re also used to integrating our work with other cinematographers and ground crews. If you’re using Steadicam, car rigs, jibs, or handheld shots, we’ll coordinate timing and movement to ensure visual continuity across your final edit.

FAQS

Can you fly over people or populated areas? Yes, we hold an Operations Over or Near People Exemption (OONP). As licensed operators, we can apply for CASA authorisations that allow for flights over people or near restricted zones when justified by the job.

How far in advance should I book? For most standard shoots, a few days to a week is ideal. For jobs needing permits or airspace clearance, allow 3-4 weeks if possible. Urgent jobs are possible — call us and we’ll do our best to make it happen.

Do you offer editing or post-production services? We specialise in filming, but we work with trusted editors and colourists. If you’d like a full post-production package, let us know and we can recommend or coordinate with the right team.

What’s your coverage area? We’re based in Sydney but travel frequently. Whether you need a drone crew in Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, regional NSW, NT, or overseas, we can make it happen.

GET STARTED TODAY

If you’re ready to book a Sydney drone operator — or just want to explore what’s possible — reach out to us today. We’ll respond within one business day with a customised quote, a suggested approach, and answers to any questions you have.

If it’s urgent, call us directly on 0415 448 428. We’re happy to help bring your project to life — from the sky.