5 Things to Check Before Hiring a Drone Show Vendor

Fast-Growing Industry, Real Risks

As the popularity of drone shows in Indonesia booms, the number of vendors claiming to be able to execute them has also multiplied. The problem: not all of them have legit capabilities, legality and track records. For you as an event organizer or direct client, choosing the wrong vendor could mean: a technical failure, legal licensing issues, or — in the worst case scenario — a safety incident.

Here are 5 concrete things you should ask and verify before signing a contract.

1. Verifiable Portfolio and Track Record

Ask for a list of shows they have executed along with the names of clients. Verify independently — contact the client and ask about their experience. Legitimate vendors will not mind this. Note: how many shows have they done? Is there a show with a number of drones that suits your needs?

2. Operational Legality

Ask explicitly: do they have a SORA (Specific Operation Risk Assessment) that is still valid because it has to be renewed every year and does each of their pilots have a SIDOPI (Remote Pilot Certificate from the Ministry of Transportation) that is still valid? This document is mandatory for commercial drone vendors in Indonesia. No documents = cannot apply for a drone show permit.

3. NOTAM Licensing Procedure

Ask what their process is for processing NOTAMs. How long is the lead time? Who handles coordination matters with the DJPU? Have they ever performed at a similar venue (near the airport, busy area, heritage venue)? An experienced vendor will answer this question in detail and confidently.

4. Insurance

Drone shows involve risk exposure to property and life when operating at height. Make sure the vendor has adequate third party liability insurance.

5. Contingency Plan for Weather and Technical Failure

Weather can change. Drones can experience technical problems. What happens if: the wind is too strong 2 hours before the show? One of the drones failed in the air? Ask specifically about their contingency procedures. Professional vendors have a structured answer to this — not just 'we do our best'.

iDrone Standard

iDRONE has executed 50+ shows throughout Indonesia with zero major incidents. Each of our shows is equipped with: technical failsafe for each drone show, automatic geofencing that prevents drones from leaving the safe zone, official NOTAMs, comprehensive liability insurance, and regular weather monitoring.

We welcome questions about all of the above. Transparency is our standard — because your trust is the foundation of every show we create.