Drone Pilot Verification Process, How SkyyTask Checks Every Pilot
Every pilot on SkyyTask goes through an automated drone pilot verification process before they can accept a single job. SkyyTask was the first platform to build a proprietary algorithm that cross-references pilot information directly against the FAA Airmen database, so clients never have to wonder whether the person showing up is actually certified to fly.
When a pilot applies to join SkyyTask as part of the drone pilot verification process, our system automatically checks their information against FAA records.
How the Verification Process Works
When a pilot applies to join SkyyTask, our system automatically checks their information against FAA records. In most cases, this happens in a matter of seconds. The pilot’s certification is confirmed, and they’re approved to start accepting jobs right away.
One of the key pieces of information the algorithm relies on is the pilot’s FAA certificate number. This number is what allows SkyyTask to confirm, instantly and reliably, that a pilot holds an active Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
Why Some Pilots Get Placed in Pending
Occasionally, a pilot’s application gets placed into pending status instead of being approved automatically. This isn’t a red flag, it almost always comes down to one specific, common issue.
The most frequent cause: a temporary certificate without a certificate number. When a pilot passes their Part 107 exam, the FAA issues them a temporary certificate right away, but the physical, hard-copy Remote Pilot Certificate, the one that includes the FAA certificate number, can take weeks to arrive by mail. If a pilot applies to SkyyTask during that window, they may not yet have the certificate number our algorithm needs to complete automatic verification.
Other less common reasons a pilot may land in pending include incomplete or inaccurate information submitted during onboarding.
What Happens When a Pilot Is Pending
A pending status doesn’t mean a pilot has been rejected. It simply means SkyyTask’s system needs one more piece of information, most often that FAA certificate number, before verification can be completed automatically.
Once a pilot is in pending status, our team steps in and manually reviews the application. SkyyTask also proactively emails pilots directly to let them know exactly what’s missing and what they need to provide to move forward. In practice, the biggest delay isn’t the review process itself, it’s pilots not seeing or checking those emails. SkyyTask stays on top of following up, but we always encourage pilots to watch their inbox closely during this stage so onboarding isn’t held up longer than it needs to be.
Why This Matters for Clients
This drone pilot verification process exists for one reason: so that when you hire a drone pilot through SkyyTask, you know they’re legitimately certified to fly commercially, not just claiming to be. Being first to build this kind of automated FAA cross-reference system means clients get a level of assurance that manual, honor-system verification simply can’t match.
Every pilot who completes a job on SkyyTask has been through this process, whether it took seconds or required a short manual review while their official certificate made its way through the mail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m stuck in pending for an extended period of time?
Email skyytasksupport@skyytask.com with your full name so we can locate and verify your account. Our team will help get you properly onboarded and let you know exactly what’s needed to complete the process.
Why does SkyyTask need my FAA certificate number specifically?
The FAA certificate number is on of the pieces of information our verification algorithm uses to confirm your Part 107 status directly against FAA records. Without it, the system can’t automatically verify your certification, which is why pilots who only have a temporary certificate often need manual review until their official number arrives.
Can I start accepting jobs while my account is in pending status?
No. Jobs can only be accepted once verification is complete, either automatically or through manual review by SkyyTask’s team. This protects clients by ensuring every active pilot on the platform has been confirmed as currently certified.
How will I know when my account moves out of pending?
SkyyTask emails pilots directly with updates and any additional information needed. Check your inbox (and spam folder) regularly during this stage, most onboarding delays happen simply because a pilot missed an email, not because anything is wrong with their application.