In this article we’re discussing some practical approaches to challenging drone scenarios based on actual field experience.
These insights can help you navigate difficult terrain, handle unique project requirements, and overcome common obstacles in complex drone operations.
Disaster Recovery Operations
When Hurricane Florence hit Eastern North Carolina, drone teams were called in to assess damage along a 31-mile railroad corridor.
This operation highlighted several key challenges that drone pilots often face in complex scenarios:
- Multi-agency coordination: The team had to secure permissions from 6-7 different entities including state forestry, park service, federal entities, and railroad authorities.
- Environmental hazards: Areas with “widow makers” (falling branches and trees) presented safety concerns that required careful planning and sometimes avoidance.
- Systematic documentation: By flying as far as possible within visual line of sight and taking nadir (straight down) photos, operators were able to geotag and classify damaged areas into an enterprise geospatial web application.
- Discovering hidden issues: The drone survey revealed massive damage in areas that were completely inaccessible by ground, including a huge washout that would have gone undetected without aerial assessment.
Post-Wildfire Assessment
Following forest fires, drone teams have successfully mapped affected areas to assess damage to specific tree stands.
In one case study involving a 700-acre swath:
- Teams conducted targeted sighting studies using Skydio X2D drones
- Visual line of sight limitations were a significant challenge
- Image segmentation analysis helped determine that approximately 50-60 acres were affected
- This focused approach provided meaningful, actionable data to clients
Breaking the Visual Line of Sight Barrier
One of the most significant limitations in drone operations is maintaining visual line of sight (VLOS).
There were several approaches to overcome this challenge:
BVLOS Waivers
- Starting with geographically restricted Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) waivers for specific sites
- Progressing to non-geographically restricted waivers
- Building relationships with the FAA through demonstrated safety records
- Working with manufacturers and software vendors to navigate the complex legal requirements
Creative Solutions
When BVLOS waivers aren’t available, there are other creative solutions such as:
- Renting scissor lifts to gain elevation for better visual contact (with proper safety precautions)
- Utilizing existing structures like parking decks when available
- Implementing “daisy chain” operations with strategically positioned visual observers
- Creating hybrid operations that combine VLOS and BVLOS approaches for linear corridor mapping
Nighttime Operations Tips
For those considering nighttime operations, such as wildlife studies, we recommend:
- Being upfront with clients about visual line of sight limitations
- Adjusting sleep schedules days beforehand to prepare for overnight work
- Considering on-site camping or sleeping arrangements when necessary
- Prioritizing safety above all else—any team member should be empowered to call off operations if safety concerns arise
- Planning for food, water, and other necessities for overnight fieldwork
Technical Considerations for Complex Projects
There are several technical approaches that help with complex mapping:
- For large forestry mapping projects, sometimes lower resolution cameras actually work better by making data processing more manageable and improving photogrammetric tie points
- Proper flight planning tools, like Field Maps, help with staging operations and documenting access points (including gate codes)
- For environmental studies, breaking large areas into manageable chunks is essential
- When mapping large areas, expect significant amounts of data and plan for drift correction in models
- Consider using ground control points or PPK (Post-Processed Kinematic) operations depending on accuracy requirements
Airspace Challenges
Complex operations often involve navigating complicated airspace issues:
- De-conflicting with manned aircraft operations requires careful planning
- When working near military operations, coordination with range control may be necessary
- Visual estimation of distance from large aircraft can be deceptive and requires extra caution
- Some projects may require specialized communication with ATC and other entities
Complex drone operations require thoughtful planning, adaptability, and a commitment to safety above all else.
The most successful operators maintain open communication with clients about limitations, develop creative solutions to overcome obstacles, and prioritize safety at every stage of the operation.
By learning from these real-world scenarios, you can continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible while maintaining the highest standards of safety and compliance.
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