Walk Away Ready to Fly Heavy Lift Missions
Comprehensive Training for Operators of the Freefly ALTA X and SHOTOVER U1
Ultra Heavy Lift drone operations are transforming the cinema production industry. With platforms like the Freefly ALTA X and SHOTOVER U1, productions can capture complex aerial shots with heavy cinema payloads once thought impossible. But these advanced aircraft demand a higher level of operational knowledge, safety awareness, and regulatory compliance—whether you're operating domestically in the U.S. or internationally.
USA and Global Operations
Our Extreme Heavy Lift UAS Operations Course is designed specifically for professional operators seeking to elevate their skills and comply with regulatory standards. This comprehensive training program combines in-depth classroom learning with hands-on flight time on the SHOTOVER U1 and Freefly ALTA X, tailored to the specific aircraft and payload configurations you're using.
This course is ideal for pilots with FPV and DJI Inspire experience who are looking to expand their capabilities beyond smaller airframes. If you’re ready to take the next step into Extreme Heavy Lift aerial cinematography, this program will give you the skills and knowledge to stand out in a highly competitive field.
Why Invest in Extreme Heavy Lift Training?
Operating heavy lift drones over 55 lbs requires more than piloting skills. Many aviation authorities—including the FAA—and insurance providers now mandate formal training for large unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Completing an industry-recognized course can be the deciding factor in obtaining necessary authorizations and securing insurance coverage for high-risk shoots.
Key Benefits:
Regulatory Compliance: Meet the training requirements outlined by authorities such as the FAA under Section 44807 for operations over 55 lbs.
Insurance Eligibility: Most insurers require documentation of training for heavy lift operations to underwrite policies.
Enhanced Safety: Gain critical knowledge of emergency procedures, aircraft dynamics, and payload management to mitigate risk.
Increased Efficiency: Learn best practices for configuring and tuning your aircraft for stability—especially when flying long lenses or cinema packages.
Professional Recognition: Receive a Completion Certificate that demonstrates your proficiency to clients, producers, and insurers.
Hands-On Flight Time: Build real-world skills on the SHOTOVER U1 and Freefly ALTA X, developing confidence in complex flight scenarios and payload management.
Business Success: Learn strategies to build a profitable aerial cinema business, including rate structures, contracts, and client management to ensure long-term success.
Course Overview
Our course is tailored for the Freefly ALTA X and SHOTOVER U1, two of the most capable platforms in the Ultra Heavy Lift category. Whether you’re seeking to operate legally under 55 lbs for maximum flexibility, or applying for a 44807 exemption to fly over 55 lbs, we provide the knowledge and hands-on experience you need.
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Aircraft orientation, preflight, inflight & post flight procedures
Tuning for long lens stability and optimal flight performance
Battery management and weight balancing
Emergency procedures, Return-to-Home (RTH), and loss of control scenarios
Best practices for navigating active production sets, including communication with directors and camera operators
Understanding and applying for FAA 44807 exemptions
Tips for legally operating the Freefly ALTA X under 55 lbs, including recommended payload strategies for lighter cinema builds
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Guidance on developing a Motion Picture and Television Operations Manual (MPTOM).
Compliance with 44807, Part 107, and international regulations
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Including rate structures, contracts, and client management for long-term success
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Tips for Successful Night Operations, including:
FAA Part 107.29 waiver (Night Operations) requirements
Proper anti-collision lighting and night visibility protocols
Adjusting camera settings and flight profiles for low-light conditions
Managing crew fatigue and enhancing situational awareness
Effective communication with production teams during night shoots
Pre-planning flight paths and ensuring safe operational zones in low-visibility conditions
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Tips for legally operating the Freefly ALTA X under 55 lbs, including recommended payload strategies for lighter cinema builds
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Payload configuration for cinema packages, including ARRI ALEXA, RED, IMAX, and Apple approved camera systems.
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Day 1: Classroom instruction, regulatory overview, and basic flight orientation. Afternoon flight training
Day 2: Classroom instruction - payload tuning, emergency procedures, and night operations fundamentals. Afternoon - More flight time on the SHOTOVER U1 and/or ALTA X
Optional custom days for:
Advanced payload tuning for long lens stabilization
Specific production workflow integration
Extended training on Motion Picture and Television Operations Manual development
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Upon completion, operators will receive a Certificate of Completion, which can be submitted as part of regulatory applications and insurance underwriting.
Training is conducted weekly at our Southern California location:
Over 280 sunny days per year
Consistent, stable weather conditions ideal for flight training
Diverse terrain, including coastal and mountainous regions, perfect for developing skills in varied flight environments
Convenient proximity to Los Angeles and major production hubs
We offer courses in the USA and globally, with training sessions available on location to meet your production schedule. Custom courses are also available to suit your specific aircraft and operational needs.
For inquiries and scheduling, contact us today.
Available Courses
2 Day Training
One-on-One
$3,250
3 Day Training
One-on-One
$4,875
2 Day Group Training
Maximum of three people
$8,125
Precision Aerial Flimworks
“Vic is a true professional in the emerging UAV industry.
He is one of the best technical pilots I have had the pleasure to fly with and understands what it takes to capture the dramatic essence of an aerial shot.
I recently had the opportunity to be a part of the Freefly Alta Class and was very impressed with Vic’s expertise with the machine and his ability to convey that knowledge to his students.
Vic is what all UAV pilots should strive to be!”
Keith Colodny + President
Aerial Vision Services
“I was expecting to learn how to setup the Alta, have a fly with the buddy box link and get an understanding of the payload capacity of the platform. My expectations were exceeded by Vic because he is a highly experienced drone cinematographer and he had answers to all of my questions.
I benefited from the course because we were able to fly our new Alta with a payload similar to the weight we would be flying back home. This was a great opportunity for Vic to help us fine tune the Alta in the light wind conditions we were experiencing during the course. Another benefit was Vic was able to provide advice regarding the setup and balancing of our MOVI, particularly when flying with longer lenses. I can't wait to get home and try out all the tricks Vic shared with us.
I would highly recommend anyone buying an Alta to partake in the course. It is very important that pilots receive all the information they need to fly the Alta safely. I consider myself an experienced pilot but there was so much to learn from this course.
Thanks again.”
Justin Zattelman - Chief Pilot