3rdrockair.com

What It Is

3rd Rock Air is a professional training provider for drone/UAS pilots. Its services appear to focus on FAA Part 107 exam preparation and professional flight-skills training. The organization emphasizes “Safety First” and is mainly characterized by in-person instruction, small-group coaching, and hands-on flight practice, primarily in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area in the United States.

Core Courses and Capabilities

The courses cover FAA Part 107 regulations, exam preparation, and flight skills. Its two-day course combines Part 107 test prep with flight training, and there is also a one-day flight course. Training uses a range of commercial drones, starting with the DJI Mini SE for beginners, then moving on to manual operation with the Phantom 3, as well as hands-on exposure to models such as the Air 2S, Mavic 3, Inspire 2, Skydio 2, and Parrot Anafi Thermal. Class sizes are capped at 6 students, which helps instructors provide individual observation and guidance. In terms of learning materials, the Part 107 course includes an approximately 200-page manual, while the flight-skills course provides an approximately 140-page manual, explaining regulations, safety, technology, and business opportunities in accessible language.

Instructors and Support

The organization states that its instructors are full-time employees, with at least 5 years of FAA-certified pilot experience, as well as the patience and coaching ability expected of educators. Its value lies not only in teaching exam knowledge, but also in providing ongoing Q&A and mentor-style support during and after the course, which can be especially useful for beginners or learners with limited flight experience.

Pricing and Certificates

The collected content does not disclose specific pricing, payment methods, or whether the organization provides a course-completion certificate. In terms of certification, the courses are mainly designed to help students pass the FAA Part 107 exam, but the exam itself must still be completed according to FAA requirements and should not be confused with a certificate issued directly by the training provider.

Pros and Cons

The strengths are a clear safety-first approach, comprehensive regulatory coverage, substantial in-person practice, exposure to multiple drone models, and small class sizes. The drawbacks are limited transparency, with incomplete details on pricing and schedules; the service is also highly location-dependent and is not suitable for learners who cannot travel to the Tulsa area. The available text also does not indicate any online course option.

Best For and Access from China

It is best suited to individuals in the United States preparing for the FAA Part 107 exam and seeking in-person flight training, including career changers and beginners interested in fields such as aerial photography, surveying, and thermal imaging. For users in China, website accessibility is unknown; even if the site is accessible, the courses are in English and delivered in person in the United States, making actual participation relatively difficult.