Pilots usually start bidding within hours of your post. Because they're local and watching for work in their area, many jobs get their first bid the same day. This article walks through the typical timeline and what can speed things up or slow them down.
Here's the general flow:
You post the job. Clear details bring faster bids. Add the location and scope.
Local pilots see it. Pilots near your site get notified.
Bids come in. You'll often have a few to compare within a day.
From Bid to Footage
Once you accept a bid, the timeline depends on scheduling and the type of work. Many pilots can fly within a day or two.
A typical turnaround looks like this:
Accept the bid.
Schedule the flight. You and the pilot pick a date that fits.
Receive your footage. Most pilots deliver edited files within a few days of flying.
What Affects Your Turnaround
A few things shape how quickly you'll get your footage.
City and suburban jobs tend to fill fast. Remote sites may take longer if the nearest pilot is a drive away.
A quick photo shoot delivers sooner than a detailed map or multi-site inspection.
More local pilots means more bids and quicker scheduling.
Rain or high wind can push a flight by a day or two.
Need It Managed? Try Done-For-You
Our Done-For-You service handles the process for you from start to finish.
You get:
A managed match. We find and book a qualified local pilot for you.
Scheduling handled. We coordinate the flight so you don't have to chase anyone.
Reliable delivery. You get your footage on a clear, agreed timeline.
Professionally edited and delivered in 48–72 hours.
Need Help?
Every drone is different, and we're here to help you navigate the process. Email our support team at [email protected] and we'll help you get sorted.