Drone Basics: Fly With Confidence From Day One

Learn drone basics, safe takeoffs/landings, and the beginner flight skills most pilots skip.

This fast, no-filler course covers how your drone works, the pre-flight prep that prevents avoidable mistakes, and the foundational flight drills that build solid flight skills. You’ll learn to fly safely, with confidence, and have a lot more fun every time you take off.

$47 $97

Mapping-Modeling-scaled
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Drone Mapping Starter Kit

Trusted by Reputed Organizations Nationwide

  • We’ve assisted Netflix producers and production managers on several projects. This includes flying to produce 3D models they used for location and set planning. We’ve assisted Netflix producers and production managers on several projects. This includes flying to produce 3D models they used for location and set planning.
    We’ve assisted Netflix producers and production managers on several projects. This includes flying to produce 3D models they used for location and set planning.
  • More than 100 Tesla drone pilots from their solar group have used our online training for both Part 107 prep and understanding safe drone operations. More than 100 Tesla drone pilots from their solar group have used our online training for both Part 107 prep and understanding safe drone operations.
    More than 100 Tesla drone pilots from their solar group have used our online training for both Part 107 prep and understanding safe drone operations.
  • We’ve performed drone flights for several of their wake surfing events, as well as flights for many of their boat commercials. We’ve performed drone flights for several of their wake surfing events, as well as flights for many of their boat commercials.
    We’ve performed drone flights for several of their wake surfing events, as well as flights for many of their boat commercials.
  • We proudly serve Warriors online in the efforts to become Part 107 certified as well as through in person training equipping them for a successful career in the UAS vertical of their choosing. We proudly serve Warriors online in the efforts to become Part 107 certified as well as through in person training equipping them for a successful career in the UAS vertical of their choosing.
    We proudly serve Warriors online in the efforts to become Part 107 certified as well as through in person training equipping them for a successful career in the UAS vertical of their choosing.
  • We’ve trained several of their drone pilots on solar inspections with drones.  We’ve also provided photogrammetric flights on a large construction project as part of the creation of 3D models for the project. We’ve trained several of their drone pilots on solar inspections with drones. We’ve also provided photogrammetric flights on a large construction project as part of the creation of 3D models for the project.
    We’ve trained several of their drone pilots on solar inspections with drones.  We’ve also provided photogrammetric flights on a large construction project as part of the creation of 3D models for the project.
  • We are American Electric Power’s UAS training partner, delivering Part 107 prep via our PROPS LMS, in-person Flight Mastery training, ongoing recurrency training, and mission-specific instruction tailored to utility operations.  Ensuring pilots maintain readiness and execute safely in real-world environments. We are American Electric Power’s UAS training partner, delivering Part 107 prep via our PROPS LMS, in-person Flight Mastery training, ongoing recurrency training, and mission-specific instruction tailored to utility operations. Ensuring pilots maintain readiness and execute safely in real-world environments.
    We are American Electric Power’s UAS training partner, delivering Part 107 prep via our PROPS LMS, in-person Flight Mastery training, ongoing recurrency training, and mission-specific instruction tailored to utility operations.  Ensuring pilots maintain readiness and execute safely in real-world environments.
  • Provided in person preparatory training for the FAA Part 107 exam as well as flights over water training. Provided in person preparatory training for the FAA Part 107 exam as well as flights over water training.
    Provided in person preparatory training for the FAA Part 107 exam as well as flights over water training.
  • We’ve trained dozens of Weitz pilots both online and in person.  From Part 107 prep to Flight Mastery and Mapping Boot Camps.  We’ve been a trusted advisor as they’ve built their program over the past few years. We’ve trained dozens of Weitz pilots both online and in person. From Part 107 prep to Flight Mastery and Mapping Boot Camps. We’ve been a trusted advisor as they’ve built their program over the past few years.
    We’ve trained dozens of Weitz pilots both online and in person.  From Part 107 prep to Flight Mastery and Mapping Boot Camps.  We’ve been a trusted advisor as they’ve built their program over the past few years.
  • One of our more exciting training opportunities, we’ve been onsite at the NTSB Training Academy multiple times to provide accident reconstruction with drones training; a complex and important element of the work they do.  They’ve also had pilots attend other training events we’ve held. One of our more exciting training opportunities, we’ve been onsite at the NTSB Training Academy multiple times to provide accident reconstruction with drones training; a complex and important element of the work they do. They’ve also had pilots attend other training events we’ve held.
    One of our more exciting training opportunities, we’ve been onsite at the NTSB Training Academy multiple times to provide accident reconstruction with drones training; a complex and important element of the work they do.  They’ve also had pilots attend other training events we’ve held.
  • We’ve been NYPA’s training partner and/or UAS consultant since late 2021.  This includes over 120 pilots who’ve prepped for Part 107 on our PROPS LMS, and dozens of pilots we’ve trained in person on Flight Mastery and drone mapping.  We’ve also consulted on their UAS training manual and SOPS. We’ve been NYPA’s training partner and/or UAS consultant since late 2021. This includes over 120 pilots who’ve prepped for Part 107 on our PROPS LMS, and dozens of pilots we’ve trained in person on Flight Mastery and drone mapping. We’ve also consulted on their UAS training manual and SOPS.
    We’ve been NYPA’s training partner and/or UAS consultant since late 2021.  This includes over 120 pilots who’ve prepped for Part 107 on our PROPS LMS, and dozens of pilots we’ve trained in person on Flight Mastery and drone mapping.  We’ve also consulted on their UAS training manual and SOPS.
  • We’ve trained several of their pilots in person.  They took our 3 Day Enterprise Flight Mastery course, which included N.I.S.T. training. We’ve trained several of their pilots in person. They took our 3 Day Enterprise Flight Mastery course, which included N.I.S.T. training.
    We’ve trained several of their pilots in person.  They took our 3 Day Enterprise Flight Mastery course, which included N.I.S.T. training.
  • Several drone pilots from the Geico aviation team took multiple courses on our PROPS LMS platform.  Including Part 107 Prep, Safe Drone Operations, Don’t Crash Courses, and many others. Several drone pilots from the Geico aviation team took multiple courses on our PROPS LMS platform. Including Part 107 Prep, Safe Drone Operations, Don’t Crash Courses, and many others.
    Several drone pilots from the Geico aviation team took multiple courses on our PROPS LMS platform.  Including Part 107 Prep, Safe Drone Operations, Don’t Crash Courses, and many others.

What You’ll Learn Inside the Course

Fly With Real Confidence From Day One

Paul walks you through exactly how a pro approaches every flight so you are ready, prepared, and in control before you ever leave the ground.

Understand How Your Drone Actually Works

Motors, ESCs, props, batteries, gimbals. When you understand your aircraft, you fly it better and you trust it more.

Build Pre-Flight Habits That Set You Up to Succeed

The same systems manned pilots use. A solid pre-flight routine means you show up ready and you fly with peace of mind every single time.

Master the Four Movements That Control Everything

Pitch, roll, yaw, elevation. Learn them the right way through structured drills so that confident, smooth flying becomes second nature.

Develop Core Flight Skills That Stick

These are the same foundational drills that professional pilots keep coming back to. Build them now and everything else gets easier.

Confidently Handle Any Situation

Battery voltage, signal awareness, weather. Paul teaches you how to read your environment and make smart decisions in the air.

Who Is This Course For?

  • Complete beginners who just got their first drone and want to start strong with the right foundation.
  • Hobbyists who want to go beyond just flying around and actually understand what they are doing up there.
  • Anyone who wants to build real skills and real confidence before moving on to more advanced flying.
  • Pilots who take it seriously from the start and want training that reflects that.
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What Will You Get?

  • 7 focused lessons covering drone basics, pre-flight prep, and core flight drills
  • Under 1 hour, no-filler training you can watch and apply the same day
  • Aviation-grade concepts taught in plain language, exactly the way Paul teaches in the field
  • A pre-flight system that preps you for a successful flight every single time
  • Core flight drills that serious pilots use, whether you fly for fun or want to go pro one day
  • Lifetime access so you can come back and rewatch anytime you need a refresher

Why Choose Drone U

14-Day Money Back Guarantee

14-Day Money Back Guarantee

We're confident you'll love this course, but if for any reason you don't, we've got you covered with a no-fuss 14-day money-back guarantee.

Lifetime Access

Lifetime Access

Once you're in, you're in for life. Come back anytime for a quick refresher. Never loose access to a course you have purchased.

In-Depth Curriculum

In-Depth Curriculum

This training empowers you to master the practical workflows of creating 2d maps and 3d Models in a variety of softwares so you can always get the job delivered.

Based on Real-World Experience

Based on Real-World Experience

Learn from instructors with real-world experience in drone mapping and modeling, bringing you practical wisdom and insights.

Access to Drone U Community

Access to Drone U Community

Get direct answers to your questions, and learn from your peers in our friendly and supportive community forum.

Trained Over 25,000 Pilots

Trained Over 25,000 Pilots

Learn from the pioneer in drone training with over 25,000 drone pilots trained and a vast experience spanning a decade

Meet Your Instructor:

Paul Aitken

Co-Founder and CEO

Paul Aiken is a highly accomplished drone industry leader, educator, and aerial data specialist with over a decade of experience pushing the boundaries of UAV technology. A graduate of the University of New Mexico with a degree in criminology, Paul has also studied international finance at Charles University in Prague and holds graduate certificates in data analytics from MIT.

Since entering the drone industry in 2011, Paul has built an impressive track record as a DJI-sponsored pilot for nearly 11 years, winning awards such as Video of the Year for the World Series of Wakesurfing. His expertise extends across mapping and inspections, having successfully mapped most of the baseball stadiums in the U.S. for radar inspection and interference mapping and contributed to large-scale construction and infrastructure projects.

Paul has trained and developed some of the largest drone programs in the country, spanning construction, utilities, and critical infrastructure. As a certified photogrammetry instructor with Pix4D, he is passionate about creating data-driven training systems that enhance flight precision, limit liability, and instill confidence in drone operators. With a deep expertise in flying low, close, and smooth in any environment, Paul continues to advance the industry by integrating cutting-edge drone technology with real-world applications.

Ready to Take Off the Right Way?

This course gives you the foundation that serious pilots are built on. In under an hour you will understand your aircraft, know how to prep it properly, and fly with real confidence. For $47, there is no better place to start.

What Students are Saying About Drone U

  • Droneu - review - Gabe H
    My experience with The Drone U's Flight Mastery Class was nothing short of extraordinary! From the start, Paul and Brandon guided me and my classmates through the intricacies of drone flight with unparalleled enthusiasm and insigh...

    My experience with The Drone U's Flight Mastery Class was nothing short of extraordinary! From the start, Paul and Brandon guided me and my classmates through the intricacies of drone flight with unparalleled enthusiasm and insight. Every lesson was intricately designed, providing a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience that was engaging and invaluable for even an experienced drone pilot like myself. The selected environment was conducive for learning and mastering the skills necessary to navigate the skies confidently and responsibly. I emerged not just with technical proficiency, but with a deep understanding and appreciation for the art of drone flying. If you’re seeking to elevate your drone flight skills to professional heights, look no further than The Drone U! Their Flight Mastery Class is a soaring testament to their commitment to cultivating skilled and responsible drone pilots. Five stars are truly not enough to encapsulate the brilliance of this establishment!!!

    G Gabe H

  • Droneu - review - Robert Monroy
    The Drone U is the place to learn to be a confident and knowledgable drone operator. I recently participated in the Flight Mastery and Mapping class, and the experience was better than what I could have ever expected. Aside from...

    The Drone U is the place to learn to be a confident and knowledgable drone operator. I recently participated in the Flight Mastery and Mapping class, and the experience was better than what I could have ever expected. Aside from all the valuable information taught, the individuals teaching are just GREAT HUMAN BEINGS! They really care about everyones growth and your success. Thank you Paul! Thank you Brandon!

    R Robert Monroy

  • Droneu - review - Brandon Hess
    The Drone U has been an incredible resource for educating myself in drone safety and overall drone knowledge. I have taken courses from other “drone experts” and nothing compares to the Drone U. The knowledge they prov...

    The Drone U has been an incredible resource for educating myself in drone safety and overall drone knowledge.
    I have taken courses from other “drone experts” and nothing compares to the Drone U. The knowledge they provide goes into far greater depth and detail than I expected. It is the most comprehensive drone school I have found and I am happy to have been a member for almost two years.
    Without the Drone U I would be lost in my drone journey! If you are on the fence or have drone related questions I suggest you sign up and try it out. The community that is included with membership is very knowledgeable and always willing to help answer your questions along the way.
    These guys deserve a 10/10 rating.

    B Brandon Hess

  • Droneu - review - Greg Takemura
    As an aspiring drone pilot, I couldn't help but leap at the opportunity to write drown my exhilaration and appreciation to The Drone U team for the extensive and supremely informative courses offered at The Drone U! Naviga...

    As an aspiring drone pilot, I couldn't help but leap at the opportunity to write drown my exhilaration and appreciation to The Drone U team for the extensive and supremely informative courses offered at The Drone U!
    Navigating through the world of drones can be quite daunting. The sky's the limit (literally!), and with the technology advancing at breakneck speed, I found it crucial to get trained by the very best in the field. Enter The Drone U - a beacon of unparalleled knowledge, expertise, and commitment to nurturing drone enthusiasts like myself!
    From the get-go, I was enamored by their comprehensive catalog of online courses. Each module is meticulously crafted to cover the A-Z of drone piloting and services, ensuring students are not just 'in the know' but also poised to soar high with confidence and competence.
    What truly sets The Drone U apart is their unwavering dedication to quality and student success. The courses are not merely theoretical jargon thrown your way. Instead, they come alive with real-world applications, hands-on training sessions, and invaluable insights from seasoned professionals who've conquered the skies, one drone at a time.
    Engaging, enlightening, and empowering – each lesson is a stepping stone towards mastering the art and science of drones. Whether you're a novice with dreams of capturing breathtaking aerial shots or a seasoned service provider keen on refining your skills, The Drone U is your ticket to a thrilling adventure up in the clouds!
    But wait, there's more! Beyond the courses, The Drone U community is a treasure trove of resources, networking opportunities, and unending support. Here, learning doesn't cease once a course ends. Instead, it continues, evolves, and transforms into a journey where every day heralds new possibilities and learning moments.
    I am not just a student at The Drone U; I am a proud member of a community that thrives on knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and an unquenchable thirst for flying higher and farther. My experience has been nothing short of magical, and I’m stoked to navigate the skies with the unmatched skills and confidence instilled by The Drone U's stellar training programs.
    For anyone looking to turn their drone piloting dreams into reality, look no further than The Drone U. With their unrivaled expertise, dynamic courses, and steadfast support, your journey from ground to sky will be as smooth, enjoyable, and rewarding as mine has been!
    To the incredible team at The Drone U – thank you for being the wind beneath my wings (or should I say, rotors?). Here’s to many more years of successful flights and delighted students!
    Fly high, learn higher with The Drone U! 🚁🌟

    G Greg Takemura

  • Droneu - review - Kevin Hesterberg
    Attended the mapping bootcamp and flight mastery training and I am glad that I did. The knowledge and experience was invaluable. Even though I have been flying drones for years, I still learned so much from these guys! If you are ...

    Attended the mapping bootcamp and flight mastery training and I am glad that I did. The knowledge and experience was invaluable. Even though I have been flying drones for years, I still learned so much from these guys! If you are a drone pilot (of any skill level) or want to be a drone pilot, join the Drone U community and let them teach you how to up your game!

    K Kevin Hesterberg

  • Droneu - review - Aaron Wilson
    Been a member for years, this is your one stop shop for drone knowledge. Everything from first flight through mastery and beyond. Incredible group of people, thank you Drone U for all that you have done for me!

    Been a member for years, this is your one stop shop for drone knowledge. Everything from first flight through mastery and beyond. Incredible group of people, thank you Drone U for all that you have done for me!

    A Aaron Wilson

  • Droneu - review - Ced
    This was a great period of instruction. Paul and PJ taught from the ' We've been there' point of view. The hands on Mapping course, coupled with Flight Mastery, is a boon for me and my business. Thanks guys.

    This was a great period of instruction. Paul and PJ taught from the ' We've been there' point of view. The hands on Mapping course, coupled with Flight Mastery, is a boon for me and my business. Thanks guys.

    C Ced

  • Droneu - review - Jason Michaud
    Excellent training, excellent content, excellent experience! Can't wait to attend another training course.

    Excellent training, excellent content, excellent experience! Can't wait to attend another training course.

    J Jason Michaud

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an expensive drone to take this course?

Not at all. Paul teaches you the concepts and systems that work on any drone. Master the fundamentals first and the gear conversation takes care of itself.

I already fly a little. Is this still worth it for me?

Absolutely. A lot of pilots who have been flying for a while have never actually been taught the fundamentals the right way. This course gives you a real foundation to build everything else on top of.

Is this just basic stuff I can find on YouTube?

You can find information on YouTube. What you will not find is a system built around a manned-pilot ideology, validated by the NTSB, and taught by someone with nearly 15 years of real field experience. Information is one thing. Actual training is something else entirely.

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