aerial-decisions

Category: Drone Service Providers

Drones Impact on the Construction Industry’s Top Challenges

We are witnessing firsthand the transformative power of drone technology in revolutionizing some of the biggest challenges in today’s construction industry. In this blog post, I’ll delve into the five most significant challenges that construction companies face in 2023 and beyond and demonstrate how drones can be the ultimate cost effective solution to overcome these hurdles and pave the way for a more profitable future.

Drones can easily access hard to reach places helping construction managers quickly deliver critical data to key stakeholders

Safety and Risk Management

Ensuring safety on construction sites is a top priority, yet it remains an ongoing challenge. Drones equipped with advanced cameras and sensors can be our most valuable tool in conducting aerial inspections. By collecting real-time data, we enable construction teams to identify potential hazards and adhere to safety protocols diligently. For example, a construction company in Canada used drones to assess a high-rise building’s exterior for signs of wear and tear, facilitating timely maintenance and minimizing safety risks.

Drones are capable of capturing data that helps project managers scale efficiencies, improve worker safety and reduce costs

Project Monitoring and Progress Tracking

Managing large-scale construction projects demands meticulous progress tracking. Drones excel at capturing high-resolution images and generating 3D models, allowing project managers to monitor developments and detect discrepancies promptly. A real-world instance involves a construction project in the UK, where drones were employed to track the construction of a highway expansion, streamlining communication among stakeholders and ensuring on-time completion.

Drone Service Providers (DSP’s) like Aerial Decisions help reduce costs, boost efficiency, improve worker safety while keeping key stakeholders informed. Drone progress monitoring adds perspective and production value to any commercial construction project.

Environmental Sustainability

The construction industry faces increasing pressure to embrace sustainable practices. Drones play a pivotal role in promoting environmental consciousness by conducting aerial surveys and monitoring ecological impact. With the data collected, construction companies can implement eco-friendly measures and optimize resource utilization. A construction firm in Germany utilized drones to assess the environmental impact of a wind farm project, enabling them to make informed decisions that aligned with green initiatives.

Cost Overruns and Rising Material Costs

Construction projects often encounter cost overruns, impacting profitability. Drones can effectively address these challenges by providing accurate measurements and surveys. This leads to precise budget planning and minimizes unexpected expenses. A construction company in Australia harnessed drone technology to conduct volumetric surveys on a mining site, avoiding cost overruns by precisely estimating the required resources and mitigating project risks.

The cost of construction materials has been rising steadily in recent years, and this trend is expected to continue in 2023. This is due to a number of factors, including the increase in demand for materials, the shortage of raw materials, and the rising cost of energy. Drones are used to collect data on the use of materials and equipment and can even deliver supplies to remote construction sites.

Construction Crew Walk-Through and Safety Check

Labor Shortages and Productivity

Labor shortages you ask? How can drones possibly tackle the demand for human capital? The construction industry undoubtedly faces a labor shortage, affecting productivity and project timelines. This is due to a number of factors, including the aging workforce, the lack of interest in construction careers among young people, and the increasing complexity of construction projects. Drones can fill this gap by performing tasks that would otherwise require substantial human effort, thus boosting overall efficiency.

Drones Even Transport Construction Materials

An example is a construction company in Japan that utilized drones for material transportation on challenging terrains, enhancing productivity and optimizing labor resources. Another, more common example, is the use of drones to capture images and video of hard to reach and often unsafe areas of an active construction site that would otherwise require a human to manually observe and record. This example of drone construction progress monitoring increases both productivity and the safety of the project

Summary

Drones are the driving force behind tackling the most pressing challenges in the construction industry in 2023 and beyond. By harnessing drone-captured aerial data, we empower construction companies to streamline operations, enhance safety protocols, and promote environmental sustainability. Embracing drone technology positions construction businesses for success, leading to improved profitability. From reducing costly errors and ensuring safety compliance to optimizing resource utilization and increasing overall productivity, drones unlock a world of opportunities for the commercial construction industry.

As a professional Drone Service Provider (DSP), Aerial Decisions is committed to partnering with construction companies to leverage these transformative technologies. Together, we can soar to new heights of efficiency, sustainability, and profitability, shaping a future where innovation and construction excellence go hand in hand.

Let’s embrace the skies and embark on this thrilling journey toward a more prosperous and sustainable construction industry, powered by the limitless potential of drone technology. The future is now, and it’s time to take flight!

From The Editor

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider for your project? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at https://aerialdecisions.com/drone-photography-pricing/ and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months.

If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

August 3, 2023
A Perfect Match: Drone Technology and Construction Software

As a Drone Service Provider (DSP) that specializes in data collection services for the construction industry, I am constantly intrigued by the innovative software technologies that continue to transform traditional construction processes. I am further excited about how drone data is becoming more intertwined with each technological advancement in construction project management software. In recent years, software has become an indispensable tool for construction companies involved in commercial building projects. This blog post explores the types of software construction companies use for various phases of construction and, more importantly, how drone technology has emerged as a game-changer by providing critical data that seamlessly overlays into existing software.

Architects and Engineers Use a Variety of Software Applications to Manage Commercial Construction Projects

Types of Software for Commercial Building Projects

Construction companies have embraced software solutions to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure smooth project management. Here are some of the crucial software types utilized in different phases of commercial building projects:

Building Information Modeling (BIM): BIM software facilitates the creation of detailed 3D models of the building, enabling collaboration among architects, engineers, and contractors. It streamlines design coordination, identifies clashes, and optimizes construction sequences, all while fostering better communication.

What is BIM Software?

BIM (Building Information Modeling) software is like a super-smart digital blueprint for commercial construction projects. It allows architects, engineers, and builders to create detailed 3D models of the building before it’s even constructed. This software helps everyone involved in the project collaborate better, identify potential problems early on, and plan everything more efficiently, resulting in smoother construction and a better end result.

Today, Architects and Engineers Rely on Digital Software Tools to Manage Commercial Construction Projects

Project Management Software: These platforms aid in planning, scheduling, and resource allocation. They offer real-time progress tracking, cost management, and document control, fostering transparency and accountability among project stakeholders.

Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR): VR/AR technologies are gaining traction in the construction industry, allowing stakeholders to experience immersive virtual walkthroughs of buildings before construction begins. These simulations aid in identifying potential design flaws and improving client engagement.

Estimating and Takeoff Software: Accurate cost estimation is vital in construction projects. Estimating software helps construction companies determine the quantity of materials required and provides real-time pricing data to develop precise project budgets.

Project Managers Have Increasingly Adopted Drones for Construction Progress Monitoring

The Role of Drones in Commercial Construction

Drone technology has significantly impacted the construction industry, and its integration with existing software has revolutionized the way companies approach building projects. Here’s how drones contribute throughout various construction phases:

Pre-construction Phase: Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras conduct aerial surveys and site inspections. This data is then fed into BIM software, aiding architects and engineers in creating accurate 3D models and improving initial designs.

Active Construction Phase: Drones provide real-time monitoring of construction progress, enabling project managers to identify potential delays and streamline workflows. They also enhance job site safety by inspecting hard-to-reach areas without risking human lives.

Post Construction Phase: Drones facilitate post-construction inspections, ensuring that the built structure aligns with the original design. Their ability to capture detailed imagery assists in creating as-built models for facility management and maintenance.

Seamless Integration with Existing Software

The true power of drones lies in their ability to seamlessly integrate with the software construction companies already use. Drone-captured data is effortlessly imported into BIM, project management, and estimating software, providing real-time updates and accurate information at every stage of the project. This integration ensures that construction teams work with the most current data, fostering collaboration and informed decision-making.

In conclusion, the construction industry is embracing technology like never before. Software solutions have become a cornerstone of commercial building projects, streamlining operations, and promoting effective collaboration. However, the real game-changer has been the synergy between drones and construction software and integrating drone data with construction software is now a perfect match. The critical data captured by drones has breathed new life into pre-construction, active construction, and post-construction phases, propelling the industry into a new era of efficiency, safety, and excellence.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider for your project? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at https://aerialdecisions.com/drone-photography-pricing/ and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months.

If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

July 25, 2023
Vertical Perspectives: Drones in High-Rise Construction

Drones are popular in the construction industry, and for good reason. They are used for a variety of tasks, including façade inspections, concrete pour monitoring, and structural monitoring at height. This is especially valuable in urban high-rise building construction projects, where traditional methods of building inspection can be dangerous and time-consuming.

Rooftop cranes perform a variety of functions during commercial high rise construction

Common Types of Traditional High Rise Inspections

Visual inspections, where inspectors climb the building or use scaffolding to get a close-up look at the façade, roof, and other exterior surfaces are the most basic and most dangerous. Magnified inspections use magnification such as binoculars to get a closer look at small details in hard to reach places. While not necessarily dangerous, finer surface cracks and other facade imperfections are easily missed. Non-destructive testing (NDT) uses a variety of techniques to inspect the building including ultrasonic testing, which uses sound waves to detect cracks and other defects, and infrared thermography, which uses heat imaging to detect areas of heat loss or gain. Remote visual inspection (RVI) uses cameras and other sensors to inspect the building from a distance. RVI is used to inspect areas that are difficult or dangerous to reach, such as the roof or the exterior walls.

Unique Challenges of Urban High-Rise Construction

Urban high-rise building construction projects present a number of unique challenges, including:

Building Height: High-rise buildings can be hundreds of feet tall, making it difficult and dangerous to inspect them manually.

Building Access: Access to high-rise buildings is generally restricted, making it difficult to get inspectors to the areas that need to be inspected.

Weather Conditions: Urban areas can experience extreme weather conditions, such as high winds and rain, which can make manual inspections difficult and dangerous. Professional drone pilots are skilled at navigating complex weather situations. More importantly, FAA certified drone pilots know when bad weather precipitates postponing or abandoning a mission altogether.

Commercial buildings employ a variety of equipment to facilitate all phases of a construction project

How Drones Can Help

Drones can overcome these challenges and provide a number of benefits for urban high-rise construction projects, including:

Drone Safety: Drones inspect high-rise buildings without putting inspectors at risk.

Data Collection Efficiency: Drones inspect high-rise buildings quickly and easily, saving time and money.

Data Accuracy: Drones provide high-resolution images and videos of high-rise buildings used to identify potential problems.

Project Documentation: Drones are used to create 3D models of high-rise buildings, which are used for planning and documentation purposes. The data is also used to keep key stakeholders engaged and involved in construction progress.

Regulatory Considerations

Before using drones for construction projects, it is important to be aware of the regulatory considerations and airspace restrictions. Drones are regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA regulates drone pilots for commercial applications through a set of rules known as Part 107. Under Part 107, commercial drone pilots must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate by passing an aeronautical knowledge test. This certificate allows pilots to operate drones for commercial purposes. The regulations outline requirements such as airspace restrictions, operational limitations, daylight-only operations, visual line of sight requirements, and the need to obtain proper authorization for certain activities, such as flying in controlled airspace. Compliance with these regulations ensures safe and responsible drone operations for commercial applications.

Recent Case Studies

There are a number of recent case studies that demonstrate the benefits of using drones in high-rise construction projects. For example, in 2018, a drone was used to inspect the façade of the Willis Tower in Chicago. The drone was able to identify a number of potential problems, including loose bricks and missing mortar. These problems were repaired before they caused any damage to the building.

In another case study, a drone was used to monitor a concrete pour at a high-rise building in New York City. The drone was able to provide real-time footage of the pour, which allowed the construction team to identify any problems early on. This helps to ensure that the concrete pour is completed successfully.

Conclusion

Drones are a valuable tool for urban high-rise construction projects. They help to improve safety, efficiency, and accuracy. If you are considering using drones for your next high-rise construction project, it is important to work with a professional Drone Service Provider (DSP). A DSP will help you to comply with all of the regulatory requirements and ensure that your drone flights are safe and successful.

Hiring a DSP

Hiring a DSP to handle the highly technical aspects of drone data collection for urban high rise construction is a more efficient, safe and cost effective alternative to manual inspections that include deploying dangerous scaffolding, suspension supports and spider lifts.

A DSP has the expertise and experience to fly drones safely and efficiently in urban environments. There are unique considerations for each project including understanding controlled airspace, the impact of weather and wind at altitude, city permitting and traffic and crowd control at the buildings base to name a few. They also have the necessary equipment and software to collect and process drone data. This will save time and money, and helps to ensure that your high-rise construction project is completed on time and within budget.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider for your project? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at https://aerialdecisions.com/drone-photography-pricing/ and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months.

If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

July 2, 2023
How’s Your Drone Service Provider At Crew Management?

How’s Your Drone Service Provider At Crew Management?

How do you know if your drone service provider is good at crew management? Crew Resource Management is terminology by the FAA to describe the management of multiple people in a crew. (FYI: The FAA uses a lot of acronyms but they save time so you’ll have extra time to read this article. LOL)

CRM (crew resource management) focuses on a drone pilot operating in crew environments and managing his or her crew safely and efficiently.

What Makes a Great Remote Pilot In Command Leader?

When the RPIC (Remote Pilot-In-Command) is working with others during a flight mission and has crew members that are helping, it’s about making sure that everybody knows exactly what they’re doing. All crew members know the method of operation for that proposed flight. The RPIC is taking in all the circumstances pertinent to that flight mission. That includes weather, hazards, rules, regulations, etc.

The FAA.gov document called AC 107-2 – Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) states,

“ A remote PIC uses many different resources to safely operate an sUAS and needs to be able to manage these resources effectively.’ …’ Therefore, a remote PIC must be able to function in a team environment and maximize team performance. This skill set includes situational awareness, proper allocation of tasks to individuals, and avoidance of work overloads in self and in others. And effectively communicating with other members of the crew, such as VOs and persons manipulating the controls of an sUAS.”

Drone Pilot-in-Charge and Crew

Who’s Responsible For Everything?

Basically, the RPIC is. He or she is responsible for the crews’ actions and safety (crew, civilians, property), etc. Furthermore, it’s up to the RPIC to get the mission accomplished on time and within client specifications. If the RPIC does not ensure good CRM, the FAA can fine or even revoke the RPIC’s license. And the RPIC would be held liable for any damages incurred. Adherence to good crew resource principles ensures the client’s needs are met, the risk is minimized, and the task is completed safely and efficiently. The RPIC must be a good team leader.

Who’s On The Crew?

Usually at least a VO. The VO (Visual Observer) helps the RPIC (Remote Pilot-In-Command) have a second pair of eyes. The VO aids the RPIC to avoid obstacles and hazards not only for the drone but also for the drone pilot as well.

What Helps the Crew to be Successful?

The RPIC needs to communicate clearly with their VO and everyone on their crew. The use of two-way radios can help with this. For example, if the VO or crew is stationed farther away not in earshot. Additionally, walkie-talkies can help if the mission is in a high-traffic and/or noisy location. During the mission communication is key. But that communication should begin even before the mission begins. All on the crew need to be well briefed by the RPIC beforehand so they each clearly know what their roles and responsibilities are. This way all can safely and efficiently contribute to the success of the mission. A great RPIC makes the best use of his or her crew and allows each crew member to give input. An excellent RPIC knows how to highlight each crew member’s strengths to create an atmosphere of safety and excellence. Good crew resource management means a crew and the remote pilot in command are better together than just a remote pilot alone.

Drone Pilots at Construction Site

Why It’s Important to Hire The Best Drone Service Provider

When considering hiring a drone service provider make sure they are good crew managers. If not you could be putting yourself at risk. Crews that are not properly managed by their RPIC could cause severe damage and set a project way back. Save time and money and have peace of mind knowing the drone service provider you are hiring uses good CRM. He knows what to do and so does his crew. The best drone service provider knows how to manage their crew in such a way that will mitigate risks, and liability, and ensure the project is completed safely and on schedule.

When you hire a great drone service provider you’re also hiring a great RPIC that knows how to utilize great CRM. So hire one ASAP.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

November 14, 2022
Does Your Drone Service Provider Incorporate Safety Procedures?

How risky is it to hire just any drone service provider?

Drones have the potential to be dangerous. When used inappropriately, drones can pose a threat to personal safety, both to that of the pilot and bystanders, as well as damage to property. Drones can cause injuries because of their quick movements, rotating parts, and edges. Injuries may happen not just to the user, but to anyone else in the area. But, when flown with care and caution, with their intended use, and in adherence to safety regulations, and good standard operating procedures, drones can be flown safely. These are just a few of the reasons why your drone service provider must incorporate safety procedures.

In addition, your drone service provider must follow a detailed procedural checklist that can help reduce risk and prioritize safe operations for every flight. The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for a reputable drone service provider will address not only best practices for the Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) to follow during the flight but also pre-flight and post-flight protocols to ensure the highest level of safety.

What should a drone service provider do before takeoff?

Even small, lightweight drones require regular upkeep. Batteries can fail to hold a charge, propellers can become damaged or loose, the drone can develop cracks, the gimbal can get stuck, etc. A comprehensive preflight checklist will require a Remote Pilot In Command to inspect all equipment carefully, batteries are fully charged, and the latest firmware updates have been installed for the drone, controllers, and monitors. And it’s best if it’s safely flight-tested before the mission.

Depending on the nature and location of the work, many drone service providers also complete a pre-flight report. This might include information about the type of project, altitude to be flown, and planned flight time, as well as contact information for the landowner or emergency services, and the closest airport. Regardless of whether a pre-flight report is used, the RPIC should assess the winds and other weather conditions prior to leaving for the mission to confirm that the weather is conducive to flight.
Once at the mission location, the RPIC should communicate the flight plan to any members of the flight crew, such as a visual observer, and note any potential obstacles or restricted areas. As part of the flight plan, the pilot should establish not only the designated locations for take-off and landing but also an area for an emergency landing, if needed.

What does a safe drone service provider do during a flight?

After takeoff and before commencing the planned flight mission, the pilot should verify that all systems are a go, confirm active satellite and GPS connections, and double-check that the batteries still indicate a full charge. If a visual observer is present, they should verify that they have the drone in sight. Before landing, the RPIC should scan the landing area for potential obstacles and communicate any concerns, including elevated wind speeds, to the visual observer. As soon as the drone is on the ground, the aircraft should be powered down to avoid potential injury from the propellers or accidental takeoff.

What does a great drone service provider do post-flight?

Running through a detailed checklist after flying a mission can help promote safe and efficient operations for the next flight. Before packing up the drone and other equipment, the RPIC should review the mission notes to confirm that all objectives were met, and verify the image data was captured successfully while transferring to a laptop or other storage device. Assuming the mission is complete, batteries and camera equipment should be removed and stored safely, and the aircraft inspected for noticeable wear or damage. This also may be an appropriate time to update flight and battery logs.
A comprehensive SOP will also address issues like training, emergency procedures, and accident reporting, among other protocols.

Before hiring a drone service provider, vet them by asking about their SOP. Although small in size, drones occupy the same airspace as traditional aircraft, and drone pilots must follow stringent guidelines established by the FAA. Creating a set of best practices as an additional reference can ensure that drone missions go smoothly, and help protect you, the drone service provider, and the public at large.

RPIC should utilize the checklist to ensure the highest level of safety. At a minimum, this pre-flight checklist should contain the following:

1. Required documentation, Pilots Certificate, Required Waivers and/or Permits, Drone Registration,
UAS Flight Manual, Proof of Insurance.
2. Weather conditions suitable.
3. Check the drone for cracks and check all screws are tight.
4. Propeller(s)/Rotor(s) not damaged and tightly fixed.
5. Propulsion system mounting(s) secure.
6. Batteries fully charged and securely mounted.
7. Communications (datalink) check.
8. Ensure the GPS module (if any) has GPS “fix.”
9. Check the mission flight plan.
10. “Return Home” and/or “Emergency Landing” locations (if supported by the particular UAS) are
selected, located appropriately, and loaded to the GCS and aircraft.
11. Ensure sensors are calibrated and that the right setting is loaded.
12. Complete flight crew briefing.
13. Ensure the launch site is free of obstacles.
14. Recheck wind direction before launch.
15. Confirm the phone number for the nearest Air Traffic Control facility in event of an emergency.

When considering hiring a drone service provider make sure they adhere to good safety procedures and protocols.

If not, you could be putting yourself at risk. An unsafe RPIC could cause severe damage and set a project way back. Save time and money and have peace of mind knowing the drone service provider you are hiring knows how to properly follow FAA rules and regulations and ensures safety first. And a good drone service provider knows how to manage their crew in such a way that will mitigate risks, and liability, and ensure the project is completed safely and on schedule. When you hire a great drone service provider you’re also hiring a great RPIC that has a proven safety record.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

November 9, 2022
12 Qualities of an Excellent Drone Service Provider

With the recent growth of unmanned aircraft into the commercial drone sector, many companies have found themselves in the position of needing to create new jobs for FAA Part 107 Certificated Remote Pilots. Considering the relative infancy of commercial small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) operations, this has created a limited, yet rapidly growing pool of applicants that all share one basic qualification – an FAA airman certificate or “drone pilot license.”

FAA Part 107 License

A drone pilot license to fly a sUAS under Part 107 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) does not take much time to obtain. This typically requires that the applicant be 16 years of age or older and able to pass a 60 question, multiple-choice exam, known as the Part 107 exam. As a result, many employers are now left wondering, what other qualities and experience should we be looking for in a commercial drone service provider?

In no particular order, here are 12 of the most important qualities of a drone service provider:

Detail Oriented

A commercial drone pilot needs to be detail oriented. To be a safe sUAS pilot, an individual should use checklists, create safety procedures, and be very alert to changes in weather or situational safety. The equipment also requires a tremendous amount of time and effort to keep the drone and the software maintained. A person who skips steps and cuts corners is not likely to be a very effective and safe commercial drone pilot.

Situational awareness means being Prepared, Organized and Alert

Socially Skilled

Drone pilots are constantly approached by the public and asked questions about their equipment, how to fly, and what they are doing. Drone service providers must learn to be comfortable in a situation where people are watching them complete a difficult task and bombarding them with questions. That may require a friendly yet tactful response (said with a smile) such as, “I’d love to answer your questions and show you my footage, but due to safety reasons I can’t talk while I’m flying so let’s talk after I land in a few minutes.”

Cool, Calm and Collected

Not only are interruptions from the public and performing in front of an audience challenging, there are other conditions that can also cause flying a drone to be stressful. Many things can go wrong when flying a drone. Firmware updates, wind, rain, snow, extreme cold, extreme heat, fog and the like can cause hardware, software and drone malfunctions. Not to mention other hazards like aggressive angry birds, air traffic, ground traffic, advisories from the air traffic control tower, restricted airspaces, geo fences, etc. are among the many obstacles a drone service provider must navigate while remaining cool, calm, and collected to stay safe and complete the mission in the best way possible. Even if everything goes wrong, they stay composed, especially in front of the client.

Disciplined

A commercial drone pilot needs to be able to fully understand and comprehend the consequences of their actions. A drone is considered an aircraft by the FAA. An excellent drone service provider does not break the rules or cut corners and takes the time to consider the consequences. A drone pilot that breaks FAA laws and/or regulations will be subject to fines and/or possibly have their license revoked.

Punctual

In many instances, an aerial image is being collected to gather data or an image at a specific point in time. A safe drone service provider will arrive on site early enough to conduct a thorough site survey and weather assessment, scout the area, identify potential hazards, and test their equipment, and other important safety procedures. If a drone pilot arrives late to the site, they could rush through important steps and be more likely to cause an accident.

Pilots often perform simple test flights prior to the actual mission

Organized

To fully maintain procedural discipline and to gain the utmost levels of safety and consistency in performance under a range of both normal and challenging conditions, many drone service providers will meticulously create a plan for each mission as well as a plan to maintain, organize, label, and store their equipment.

Humility

Flying a drone can include many costly risks. Companies need to protect themselves by ensuring that their drone service providers are competent, safe, extensively trained, licensed, and insured. A pilot who thinks him or herself invincible and above the law will be more likely to cause an accident or damage. A good drone service provider will understand that accidents are possible and will not overestimate their abilities, take necessary precautions, but still be confident enough to successfully conduct a mission. Or if conditions are too unsafe or hazardous to complete the mission, they will humbly call off the mission.

Dedicated

The sUAS industry is still in its infancy and evolving rapidly. Dedicated drone service providers are ready and willing to seek and give help, build, and strengthen their drone community, and continuously learn, hone skills, and refine their craft. They are passionately involved and enjoy the fast-moving speed of this new tech and art form.

Inquiring

Much like the autonomous drones they fly, good drone service providers are data collectors. They inquisitively ask questions to gain perspective on a situation. Part of being a good drone service provider is being able to assess a flight location, gather information on a variety of factors, and make final decisions related to the specifics of the appropriate plan. A drone service provider that takes the time to properly prep and gather relevant information has a much better chance of conducting safe and successful missions. Good drone service provider often asks the client a lot of questions during an interview. By nature, they are curious and prefer to gather information to paint a clearer perspective of the bigger picture, like a bird’s eye drone view.

Drone service providers are professionals who are experts at operating different types of drones

Situational and Self Awareness

Excellent drone service providers modestly know their strengths, weaknesses, and personal limits. They will also possess situational awareness and be able to analyze a situation and know when not to fly. When the pressure is on to conduct a flight, a discerning drone service provider focused on safety will be able to call off the mission and explain why.

Team Leader

A good drone service provider must understand their position as the Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC). The RPIC is ultimately the decision maker and is held responsible by the FAA for any decisions that they or their crew carry out. Knowing how to manage the crew, make proper decisions and when to set limitations or boundaries on a mission is key. A great drone service provider must have the ability to step up as the leader and guide their crew to completing a safe mission.

Integrity and Professionalism

Above all an excellent drone service provider will uphold the highest standards of honesty, integrity, quality, hard work, courtesy, and professionalism. The client of a drone service provider of this caliber will breathe easier knowing they are taken care of, and they will have not only the highest quality valuable assets, but also a safe and enjoyable experience.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

September 2, 2022
5 Benefits of Multi-Drone Availability from Your Drone Service Provider

From mini drones that are smaller than your phone to larger, beefier quadcopters, different drones have different flight characteristics, and because of their size, some of them might be unsuitable in certain situations. Therefore, drone service providers know having a fleet of multiple drones is best to get the job done right. The first time.

Drone Service Provider UAS Fleet

Reason number one: Accidents happen.

Good drone service providers prepare for the unexpected and anticipate hazards like trees, power lines, birds, air traffic, wind speeds, weather conditions, construction hazards, and the like.

But even the most skilled, experienced, and cautious drone pilots have dealt with simply being human, and human error, in a split second, could cause the well-prepped drone they brought on-site to suddenly not operate.

Or a gust of wind, angry birds (not the cute ones, think sniper seagull or Incredible Hulk Hawk), or even a solar flare can wreak havoc on drone technology. So that’s why it’s always good to have a backup! Just in case.

Drone Service Provider Airborne UAS

Drone Service Provider UAS Silhouette

Reason number two: Technical difficulties happen.

Comparable to the reason stated above, not only are people imperfect so is technology. Firmware updates, corrupted SD cards, a gimbal that decides to suddenly not rotate properly, props that may not cooperate, dust particles or water particles, or for whatever reason a bug, literal or virtual, appears and a trusty drone can just simply decide not to work. So before a drone service provider is tempted to open up their drone and start trying to fix it and thereby void the warranty from the manufacturer and spend precious time trying to troubleshoot, drone pilots can simply use their secondary backup drone instead until they can get their primary drone sent in for repairs by the experts.

Then there’s the backup option if you need it in case one is already down for repair.

Reason number three: It’s better to have more footage than you need than not enough.

Drone Service Provider UAS Over Field

Picture the scenario: Drone service providers often drive for miles and many hours to a remote shoot location and after the end of a long day once they have returned home realizes they’ve missed several crucial pieces of footage the client needed. Or, as was mentioned in the previously listed reasons, the only equipment brought failed so they couldn’t get all the footage that was needed. Either way, it requires another day’s worth of work and more time and expense. This problem could’ve been solved with two different drones for the same mission.

Reason number four: Kill one bird with two stones.

Not exactly how the saying goes. Also, it’s not my favorite expression because I love birds and especially drone “birds”. And I don’t kill birds. Not even then the vengeful ones that dive-bomb and attack friendly drones. But the point is: that the task will be accomplished more efficiently, thoroughly, and faster because your drone service provider arrived with more than enough gear to get the job done. I don’t always say always…but…Always have a backup; always have a backup plan if you run into an issue; and always have a backup cord and so on.

And this brings me to my last reason…

Reason number five: More than one tool for more than one application to get the job done.

Each mission is different. One might require basic listing shots for a realtor’s residential home listing. Another might require mapping and/or surveying of a roof for a commercial building for a 2D ortho map. Or maybe a combination. So these require different applications and different drones that work with those applications. Drone service providers believe in being fully equipped means being ready to get any required job done.

The climate is a factor as well. Because some drones perform better in poorer weather conditions such as light rain, heat, cold, and higher wind speeds.

So, no matter how you slice it, no single drone is the best platform for all occasions, and depending on what we need from them in terms of imagery and operations, having multiple drones allows you to cover more bases as well as have a backup.

UAS Hovering Near Building

Drone Service Provider Construction Drone

Quadcopter Drone in Flight

UAS at Dusk

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

May 6, 2022
5 Reasons for FAA-Registered Drone Service Providers

Register Your Drone at www.faadronezone.faa.gov

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulates all airspace in the United States and has specific statutory rules for unmanned aircraft systems, including the need to register drones. At the time of this writing, there were 347,957 commercial drones registered in the US. So why should commercial drone pilots register their drones?

Register Your Drone at www.faadronezone.faa.gov

1. It helps ensure the safety of our national airspace

The FAA created the National Airspace System (NAS) to protect people and property on the ground, and to establish a safe and efficient airspace environment for civil, commercial, and military aviation.

Drones are fundamentally changing aviation, and the FAA is working to fully integrate drones into the NAS. FAA Part 107 is the set of FAA regulations that describe how, when, and where drones may be flown for commercial purposes. By flying registered drones under Part 107 rules, commercial drone pilots are helping to keep people, property, their drone, and our National Airspace safe.

2. The FAA will soon require Remote ID (RID) to track the use of drones

As part of a new Unmanned aircraft Traffic Management (UTM) system, the FAA recently announced the Remote Identification (RID) rule for drone pilots. Under this new rule, all drone operators are required to equip their drones with RID technology no later than September 16, 2023.

Remote ID will broadcast a unique identifier that is tied to the drone’s registration, allowing the FAA, law enforcement, and other federal agencies to log flight paths, track drone operations, and locate the control station when a drone appears to be flying in an unsafe manner or in an area where it is not allowed to fly. This technology also lays a foundation for the safety and security groundwork needed for more complex drone operations utilizing UTM in the future.

FAA Remote Pilot Seal

3. A unique FAA registration number must be displayed on all commercial drones

Per FAA Part 107 regulations, all drones weighing less than 55 pounds that are flown commercially must be labeled with a unique registration number that is clearly visible on the outside of the drone.

4. It only costs $5 and takes about 10 minutes to register a drone for commercial use

Commercial drone operators must register each of their drones individually with the FAA Drone Zone. The good news is that this can be done online, and only costs $5 per drone.

5. Pilots who fly an unregistered drone for commercial purposes may face steep penalties

Registering a drone at the FAA Drone Zone website is a statutory requirement. Failure to register a drone may result in both civil and criminal penalties. The FAA may assess civil penalties up to $27,500, and criminal penalties of up to $250,000 and/or imprisonment for up to three (3) years.

Conclusion

The benefits of commercial drone registration are clear. By requiring commercial drone pilots to 1) hold a Remote (Part 107) Pilot Certificate and 2) register each of their drones individually, each pilot can, and should be, held accountable for their actions.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

August 28, 2021
5 Reasons to Prioritize Pre-Flight Checklists for Drone Services

1. Safe and Professional Operations

Just like commercial airline pilots use a checklist before each flight, drone pilots use pre-flight checklists to ensure their operations are safe and legal. In addition to ensuring aircraft readiness and considering things like weather, site safety and crew briefings, checklists also help pilots ensure compliance with FAA, state and local regulations that govern the commercial use of drones.

2. Redundancy = Consistency

Checklists augment pilot memory to ensure that all required actions are performed in an orderly manner and without omission. When properly implemented, checklists are used redundantly and consistently before every flight, regardless of how many times the pilot has flown a particular aircraft or mission.

3. Complacency = Missed Steps

The aim of implementing a checklist is not simply to read through and check off items. Rather, the objective is to prevent complacency by methodically following every step. Forcing oneself to read each checklist item may seem awkward and time-consuming to a drone pilot who has flown a particular aircraft many times before. However, if a pilot scans the items to be checked quickly due to time pressures, versus taking time to consider each step, missed or incorrect steps can result in disaster.

4. They’re Not Just for Pilots

The pre-flight checklist is an integral part of effective Crew Resource Management, which enhances teamwork, increases communication and transforms operational hierarchy to improve safety and reduce risk. When used effectively, the checklist is key to ensuring that the entire flight crew is on the same page and properly briefed for every mission.

5. They’re Not Just for Pre-Flight

Pre-flight, in-flight and post-flight procedures are all part of a comprehensive checklist. Best practices should include, but not be limited to, these high-level considerations:

Pre-flight

– Airspace restrictions and weather considerations

– Pilot and crew mental and physical fitness

– Site inspection and mission walk through

– Take-off, landing, safety perimeter and emergency abort zones established

– Crew and bystander briefing

– Aircraft, payload and flight system inspection

In-Flight

– Take-off procedure

– Maintain visual line of sight with aircraft

– Maintain safe operating distance from people and obstavles

– Monitor airspace for other aircraft

– Maintain “sterile cockpit” to avoid pilot distraction

Post-Flight

– Landing procedure

– Power down sequence

– Data acquisition procedure

– Post-flight aircraft inspection

– Flight logging

Conclusion

Replacing human error with a strong safety culture and reliance on proven procedures is paramount to the success of any drone services provider. Aviation safety studies have shown that consistent and methodical use of checklists reduces risk by virtually eliminating mistakes and oversights. A strong emphasis on team intelligence and effective procedures like operational reports and checklists can ensure teams are on the same page and operating at peak effectiveness.

Bottom Line: Take the time to do it right – or don’t fly

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

May 23, 2021
5 Reasons for FAA-Certified Drone Service Providers

This is the first in a series of “Five Reasons” articles. Over the next several months, we’ll explore key areas for consideration, what to look for and questions to ask when hiring a commercial drone service provider to fly your important mission.

5 Reasons to Insist that Your Drone Service Provider is an FAA-Certified Remote Pilot

1. Flying a Drone for Commercial Purposes Without FAA Part 107 Certification is Illegal

The civil penalties for flying a commercial drone without an FAA remote pilot’s certificate are up to $32,666 for each incidence. After the violator receives a letter of warning letter from the FAA, this fine may be charged per day for continual illegal use of a drone for commercial purposes. The FAA may also impose criminal sanctions, which include a fine of up to $250,000 and/or a prison sentence of up to three years upon conviction (49 U.S.C. § 46306(b) and (d)).

2. Hiring an Unlicensed Commercial Drone Service Provider is Illegal

Federal statute (49 U.S. Code § 46306(b)(8)) declares that “a person shall be fined (up to $250,000) under title 18, imprisoned for not more than 3 years, or both, if the person . . .  knowingly and willfully employs for service or uses in any capacity . . . an individual who does not have an airman’s certificate authorizing the individual to serve in that capacity”

A Safe Bet: Certified and insured drone service providers

3. Aviation Knowledge and Regulatory Compliance

A commercial drone pilot has a primary responsibility to follow all regulations established by the FAA to keep our national air space safe for everyone. A certified commercial drone pilot will understand where, when and how high they can fly and, if needed, they’ll know how to get permission to fly in different classes of air space.

4. Safety

Flying a drone is relatively simple and straightforward, but flying safely is an entirely different matter. Licensed drone pilots spend many hours learning FAA drone regulations – rules that are designed to keep people, property and air space safe. They understand how wind speed, visibility, clouds and other conditions can affect flights;  and make safety a priority by adhering to crew resource management and medical guidelines while following proven risk management protocols and procedures.

5. Professionalism

A licensed drone pilot should be expected to demonstrate professionalism through an unwavering commitment to FAA regulatory compliance, safety procedures, respect for privacy, and legal and ethical operations. Additionally, it’s important to  factor in their level of experience and ability to capture the high-quality aerial data required for your important project.

Conclusion

As the drone industry transitions from nascent to mainstream, demand for FAA-Certified Remote Pilots continues to grow as well, and it becomes more important than ever to protect yourself from personal and professional liability. When hiring a drone service provider, ask to see their FAA Remote Pilot credentials, insurance, and preflight checklists to ensure that you are working with someone who is truly committed to professionalism and regulatory compliance.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider?  To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968.  Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

May 8, 2021