The advances in technology over the years have greatly improved the ways we manage and gather data. LiDAR and photogrammetry provide high-resolution imagery and precise elevation models, ensuring a fast turnaround and safer data capture for surveyors.
UAV drone surveying can safely map large and complex sites in a fraction of the time it takes traditional methods to do so. Even the most advanced drones and experienced operators can run into unexpected challenges.
Unexpected challenges, such as sudden weather changes or restricted airspace, can impact timelines, data accuracy, and increase costs. Planning for what can go wrong helps the Meridian team stay on schedule and gather every data point.
#1 – Challenge: Weather And Environment
In drone surveying, weather is one of the biggest wildcards. High winds, rain, snow, and other forms of extreme weather can impact stability, battery life, and image clarity.
The weather isn’t something that UAVs can work through. Instead of risking flights, it’s better to reschedule within a short period to avoid compromising data quality.
Solution: Pre-fight planning is the crucial step to overcoming weather challenges. Check the forecast, create flexible schedules, and build in buffer days. Patience and preparation are key to the challenges weather brings.
#2 – Airspace Regulations And Permissions
In Canada, regulations govern drone flight, particularly near cities, airports, or critical infrastructure. All UAV operators must follow Transport Canada and NAV Canada regulations. Flight altitudes, line of sight and restricted zones are just some of the rules monitored.
Navigating these rules takes time and experience. Meridian’s licensed UAV operators prepare site-specific flight plans, apply for local permissions and when required, coordinate with municipal offices.
Just as making a pre-flight plan for the weather requires foresight, navigating regulations requires the same level of foresight. Regulation compliance reduces costly delays and increases confidence.
#3 – Technical Limitations And Managing Data
Practical limitations, like battery life, payload capacity, and data storage, influence how far and how long a UAV can fly.
Large project sites often require overlapping flights, which create hundreds of image data points that are stitched together to form a comprehensive view. These images require careful processing to prevent gaps in the data.
#4 – On-Site Obstacles And Hazards
There are still risks associated with ground conditions when it comes to aerial surveying. Tree canopies, cranes, power lines and uneven terrain interfere with safe drone operation.
Performing a pre-site walk-through allows us to adjust the UAV drone’s flight path during the survey. Our drone surveyors are local and have a unique understanding of the terrain conditions across each province.
The main solution to these obstacles is having boots on the ground and practical experience in the field. Even with the technological advancements of UAVs over the decades, there is no substitute for human ability to adapt and change.
Meridian’s Tips For Overcoming UAV Survey Challenges
- Knowledgeable UAV operators with current UAV certification and ongoing flight training.
- Conducting pre-flight checks and risk assessments for every project.
- Be prepared for everything: Keep extra batteries, spare drones (if possible), and duplicate the data for backups.
- Schedule contingency days for weather and other unpredictable delays.
It’s expertise, not just gadgets, that ensures accuracy. When challenges arise, the right team of knowledgeable and experienced UAV surveyors make all the difference.
Want your UAV survey done right the first time? Contact Meridian surveys and our certified UAV operators will help you navigate the unexpected, so your project stays on track.