Many large companies around the globe already hire drone pilots to do air surveillance in some areas. In fact, it is more cost-effective to employ one person who owns a drone and can do quality surveillance than to pay for constant camera surveillance.
In addition to surveillance, drones also have practical applications in aerial monitoring and private investigation alike. The small unmanned aerial vehicles make these jobs easier and less dangerous. In comparison with other devices that are used for surveillance, drones are less noticeable and can reach almost every location.
For aerial monitoring and surveillance, you must have an advanced drone with 4K camera which is capable of making HD videos and photos. Even better, thermal imaging cameras too. These cameras are even more effective in some circumstances for aerial surveillance and monitoring.
This can be a very profitable business. For example, the professional surveillance operators in the United States earn up to $50.000 per year.