Become a pilot in the Croptic network.
Drone, license, registration. We lay out what you need to start , in Belgium and the Netherlands.
A drone with RTK.
Our task maps need centimetre-accurate imagery. That only works with an RGB drone equipped with RTK (Real-Time Kinematic GPS). Without RTK the image shifts on the map by several metres , too much for the sprayer to switch sections precisely.
We recommend: the DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise (4/3" sensor with mechanical shutter, built-in RTK option) or the DJI Mavic 3 Multispectral (RGB + 4× multispectral). These are the workhorses in our network.
Other drones are possible if they hit the same specs: RTK GPS and RGB camera, mechanical shutter required. Not sure about your setup? Send us a message, we'll take a look together.
Open Category , same rules across the EU since end of 2020.
Belgium and the Netherlands follow the same European rules. For scanning flights over farmland you almost always operate in the Open Category, split into three subcategories based on flight altitude, drone weight and distance to people.
Close to people
Flights close to people, not over crowds. Drones under 250g (C0) or in C1 class. Exam: just the free online A1/A3 exam.
With distance to people
Flights close to people at minimum 30m horizontal distance (5m in low-speed mode). C2-class drones. Exam: A1/A3 online + an extra A2 CofC theory exam.
Far from people
Flights at least 150m from residential, commercial or industrial zones. No flights over uninvolved people. C3/C4 or "legacy" drones. Exam: just the online A1/A3 exam.
For Croptic work with the M3M you need an A2. Because of its weight the M3 falls in the C2 category, so you need an A2 licence.
What you need in Belgium
1. Operator registration via the BCAA portal , one-time, online, for you or your business. 2. A1/A3 online exam , free via the same portal. Theory + multiple choice, you receive your certificate immediately. 3. A2 CofC , paid exam via a recognised entity. Gives access to more fields. 4. Insurance , mandatory for commercial drone work. Check with your insurer whether it isn't already included in your business insurance.
What you need in the Netherlands
1. Operator registration via RDW (online, ~€23 one-time) , links your drone flights to you or your business. 2. A1/A3 online exam , free via a certified provider, similar to Belgium. 3. A2 CofC , extra exam via a recognised trainer for those who also want to fly in transition zones. 4. Insurance , mandatory. Expect €80–150/year for recreational; commercial coverage is higher.
You fly. We handle the rest.
We plan the scan with the customer and send you the coordinates. You fly the field , on average 20 to 60 minutes depending on the area. You upload the imagery to our portal. We do the AI analysis, validation and delivery of the task map to the contractor or farmer. No analysis work on your end. No mandatory customer contact. Per-field compensation , exact rates discussed 1-on-1 once you've signed up.
All Croptic pilots and contractors, on one map.
Become a pilot at Croptic and appear on this map yourself. Arable farmers in your region will find you as soon as you're active.
Are you a pilot or considering becoming one? Get in touch and we'll add you to the map as soon as you're active.
Ready to start?
Send us a short message with your region and your drone setup. We'll be in touch within 24 hours to discuss next steps.