The FAA Part 107 certification and the TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test) serve different purposes for different types of drone pilots. The Part 107 certification is required for commercial drone operations in the United States and involves passing a comprehensive knowledge exam that covers topics such as airspace classifications, weather, regulations, and emergency procedures. It is designed for individuals who intend to use drones for business, professional services, or any non-recreational purpose. In contrast, the TRUST test is a free, simple, online safety test required for recreational drone pilots. It focuses on basic safety guidelines and regulations for flying drones as a hobbyist. While the Part 107 certification is administered through FAA-approved testing centers and must be renewed every two years, the TRUST test is taken through FAA-approved online providers and only needs to be completed once.

FAA Part 107 Training Course - can be found in a Google Search

FAA Part 107 Testing facility in Alaska

U.S. Coast Guard - Air Station Kodiak (JSV00041) - Windrider Drive, Barracks 4, Building 7, Kodiak, Alaska 99615

Yuut Elitnaurviat Inc- 610 Akiak Drive, Bethel, Alaska 99559

Kenai Peninsula College - Kenai River Campus - 156 College Road, Soldotna, Alaska 99669

TRUST Test https://trust.pilotinstitute.com/ 

Drone job opportunities in Alaska are growing in fields like agriculture, infrastructure, wildlife conservation, and public safety. Part 107-certified pilots are in demand for roles such as survey technicians and drone operators, especially in cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks.

Drone job opportunities in Alaska are expanding across various sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, wildlife conservation, and public safety. Positions such as drone pilots, survey technicians, and videographers are in demand in cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks . Organizations like the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and the Fairbanks Soil and Water Conservation District also offer roles that may involve drone operations . For those interested in entering the field, obtaining an FAA Part 107 certification is essential for most commercial drone work. Additionally, training programs such as those available online can help aspiring drone pilots gain experience and connect with job opportunities in the state.

Yes, drones are being increasingly used in Alaska for emergency response, particularly in search and rescue operations and disaster assessment. The ARROW (Alaska Rural Remote Operations Work Plan) program, launched by the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, is a major initiative in this area, providing remote communities with uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) to improve response capabilities. 

Here's a more detailed look at how drones are being used:

1. Search and Rescue:

• Drones can quickly cover large areas, making them ideal for locating missing persons, especially in remote or challenging terrain. 

• They can provide real-time aerial views, thermal imaging for night searches, and assist in pinpointing locations with laser ranging, improving search and rescue efforts. 

• Drones can also deliver emergency support kits, medical supplies, or communication devices to those in need. 

2. Disaster Assessment:

• Drones can be used to survey damage from natural disasters like wildfires, avalanches, or landslides, providing valuable data for emergency responders. 

• They can assess the extent of damage to infrastructure, identify areas that need immediate attention, and help prioritize relief efforts. 

• Drones can capture high-resolution images and videos, enabling responders to evaluate risks and plan interventions remotely. 

3. ARROW Program:

• The ARROW program is a statewide initiative to enhance emergency response capabilities in rural Alaska by providing communities with drones and related technology. 

• The program aims to improve communication, reduce response times, and enhance resource allocation during emergencies. 

• ARROW uses drone technology to collect data on damaged infrastructure and community needs, which can be rapidly shared via cloud processing. 

4. Other Uses:

• Drones can also be used for infrastructure monitoring, avalanche forecasting, and monitoring changing coastlines.

• The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) is leading research and development efforts in drone technology, including testing and integration of drones in harsh weather conditions. 

• Drones are also being used for research purposes, such as studying sea ice and tidewater glaciers