NASHVILLE, TN, August 7, 2024—UAV Coach, the nation’s top provider of drone education and training, has released a newly updated version of Drone Pilot Ground School to help drone pilots pass the FAA’s Part 107 test. The updated course was recently released on July 24 as the company celebrates 10 years of working to support drone pilots.

“We are so excited about this updated version of Drone Pilot Ground School,” says Brad Tucker, CEO of UAV Coach. “Our focus at UAV Coach has always been on helping commercial drone pilots gain the knowledge and skills they need to be successful, and this newly updated course is the perfect way for us to celebrate ten years of doing this important work.”

UAV Coach launched Drone Pilot Ground School on June 21, 2016—the same day the FAA released the Part 107 rules. Since launching, over 65,000 drone pilots have used the course to earn their Part 107 certification. UAV Coach students have over a 99% pass rate on the test, and the company is trusted by nationally recognized organizations like the NYPD, NBC Universal, Granite Construction, and Tesla to train their drone pilots.

Drone Pilot Ground School walks students through the Part 107 test, covering key topics in a self-study format. The new version of the course has been completely updated, including:

• New videos and course content fully up-to-date for 2024.
• New personalized study plans to help students succeed and progress at their preferred pace.
• New virtual flashcards to provide even more study tools to help students pass the exam the first time.
• New Spanish subtitles for more accessible learning.

To celebrate its 10th anniversary, UAV Coach is offering $100 off Drone Pilot Ground School now through August 14. See an example lesson from the updated course now.

About UAV Coach

UAV Coach is the nation’s top provider of drone education and training. UAV Coach specializes in helping people get their commercial drone license through their online test prep course, Drone Pilot Ground School, with a 99% pass rate, which has helped over 65,000 drone pilots pass the FAA’s Part 107 test. UAV Coach offers free and paid educational resources for drone pilots, including in-person training and free access to the FAA’s TRUST for recreational flyers. UAV Coach was founded in 2014 with the mission of empowering drone pilots every step of their journey.

Media contact: Zacc Dukowitz (Zacc@UAVCoach.com)

The post UAV Coach Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Newly Updated Part 107 Course appeared first on UAV Coach.

This month marks UAV Coach’s 10th anniversary.

To celebrate the anniversary, we’ve released a newly updated Drone Pilot Ground School, our test prep course for the FAA’s Part 107 exam.

We’ve completely reimagined the course with:

• Brand new videos
• Virtual flashcards
• Personalized study plans
• Spanish subtitles

And a lot more, which we’ll cover below in this article.

To celebrate the new version of the course, we’re offering $100 off thru August 14th.

Sign up now to get the discount.

Celebrating Ten Years by Doubling Down on Our Commitment to Drone Pilots

When UAV Coach first started in 2014, the FAA’s Part 107 certification didn’t exist. From 2014 to 2016, the only way to operate drones commercially was to obtain a Part 333 exemption.

In 2016, the FAA released the Part 107 rules.

On the same day the rules came out we launched Drone Pilot Ground School, our online test prep course to help drone pilots pass the Part 107 test.

Since then, we’ve trained over 65,000 drone pilots to become Part 107 certified. Our students have over a 99% pass rate on the test, and we’re trusted by nationally recognized organizations like Tesla, the NYPD, and NBC Universal to train their pilots.The journey to get to this point has been incredible. And all of our success has come from you, our students.

That’s why we wanted to celebrate UAV Coach’s 10th anniversary by creating a completely up-to-date version of Drone Pilot Ground School.

[Want to see what the course looks like? See inside one of our lessons!]

The original course was made in 2016, just before the FAA released the Part 107 rules.

After a few years, we felt like we could do better. So we completely redid Drone Pilot Ground School, reshooting videos, creating new lessons to address notes from our students, and making the learning experience more seamless.

Now, we created a completely new, up-to-date version of Drone Pilot Ground School to provide the very best resources for our students—keep reading to learn more about the updates we made.

What’s New in Drone Pilot Ground School

Here’s a closer look at the updates we made in the new version of Drone Pilot Ground School.

NEW Most Updated Industry Content

We guarantee that you will be getting access to the industry’s most up-to-date content so that you can have confidence in passing the FAA exam.

Our videos are NEW as of July 2024, no outdated videos here!

Here’s a look inside the new course:

NEW Personalized Study Plans

Complete the course in one week or spread it out over the course of two weeks or one month. With our study plans, you’ll be able to pace your training to your ideal completion time.

NEW Virtual Flash Cards

Our course now includes digital flash cards to provide even more study tools to help you pass the exam the first time. Guaranteed.

NEW Spanish Subtitles

Although you need to be able to read, speak, write, and understand English to become a certified drone pilot; we now offer Spanish subtitles for more accessible learning.

Ready to become a commercial drone pilot?

Get $100 off the newly updated Drone Pilot Ground School now.

The post Want to Become Part 107 Certified? Get $100 Off Our Newly Updated Test Prep Course, Drone Pilot Ground School appeared first on UAV Coach.

But it’s true—Commercial UAV Expo 2024 is less than two months away!

And this year’s a big one, with the conference celebrating its 10th year, which is practically a century in the fast-moving world of drone technology.

After the drone conference shakeup that happened during COVID, Commercial UAV Expo has emerged as the clear front runner in the world of drone events. These days, it’s one of the biggest, best U.S. commercial drone conferences you can find.

Every year we start getting excited around now because we know the conference is coming up.

In this post, we’re going to share all the reasons we’re excited for Commercial UAV Expo 2024. If you’re on the fence about attending, this post may help you make a decision. And if you already know you’re going, we hope this post will serve to get you pumped.

When and Where Is Commercial UAV Expo 2024?

As it has been for several years, the conference will be held at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, NV. The dates this year are September 3 to 5.

Right now you can get early bird pricing for $300 off. This deal is good until July 19.

Learn more about attending, or keep reading for our nine reasons to attend.

9 Reasons to Attend Commercial UAV Expo 2024

Here are the reasons we’re getting excited for the conference this year.

1. Best-in-Class Technology

The exhibition hall is always one of the best parts of any tech-focused conference. And the hall at Commercial UAV Expo is a standout, because all the heavy hitters in the drone industry are there.

This year, the expo will feature over 300 exhibitors showcasing the latest in commercial UAS technology.

The Elios 3 in flight inside a trailer at Commercial UAV Expo 2022

And if this year is like the last few, you can even fly Flyability’s Elios 3 on the exhibition floor—because they bring in a trailer where they literally let you fly right at the booth. That’s pretty cool.

2. Vertical-Specific Drone Deep Dives

Want to learn more about a specific section of the drone industry? Or learn a little about a lot of different commercial drone applications?

Whether you want to go deep on one application or just get a lay of the land for how drones are being used in work, Commercial UAV Expo is a great place to learn.

The conference program this year will offer talks in five key drone verticals:

• Construction
• Drone Pilot Program
• Energy and Utilities
• Infrastructure and Transportation
• Policy

View the full 2024 conference program.

3. Innovative Hydrogen Track

In addition to the five core tracks above, this year there will again be a track put on by the HYSKY Society.

This event does cost extra. But it’s a really unique offering. The HYSKY Society Hydrogen Aviation Course brings together all pieces of the hydrogen aviation ecosystem: hydrogen production, hydrogen logistics, hydrogen infrastructure, hydrogen fuel cells, and engines, and hydrogen aircraft.

The course offers participants the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge about the latest advancements, technologies, and applications in the field of hydrogen aviation, designed to provide a solid foundation for understanding the principles, challenges, and opportunities associated with hydrogen-powered aircraft.

Learn more about the HYSKY Course.

4. The Keynotes

Commercial UAV Expo 2024 brings in top talent to speak every year, and this year’s shaping up to be no different.

Keynotes are a great opportunity to get personal perspectives from the top thought leaders, visionaries, and innovators in commercial drones operations.

Hear from industry experts about where the drone industry is headed from a regulatory perspective, how AI is impacting drone operations right now, and more.

5. Special Workshops and Events

Every year, Commercial UAV Expo puts on special events in addition to the main lineup of talks and panels.

Here are this year’s top workshops and events:

• Photogrammetric Mapping with UAS—led by ASPRS.
• LiDAR Mapping with UAS—led by ASPRS.
• From Air to Ground: Comprehensive Lidar Mapping Solutions—led by GeoCUE.
• Transforming UAVs into Real-World Mapping and Surveying Solutions—led by Trimble.
• From Drone Data to Survey Deliverable—led by Virtual Surveyor.

Learn more about special workshops and events at the 2024 conference.

6. Almost 4,000 Attendees Anticipated

Last year about 3,750 people attended Commercial UAV Expo. And this year the number may be even higher, if you can believe it.

Pulling people in from over 70 different countries, the event will truly be a global meeting place for all things drone-related.

7. The DRONERESPONDERS Public Safety Summit

Presented by AIRT, the Public Safety Summit is a co-located event that takes place over two days during Commercial UAV Expo.

Credit: DRONERESPONDERS

The Summit features programming designed to educate and prepare first responder UAS program managers and remote pilots at every experience level for public safety UAS operations.

If you work for a public safety agency and have been wanting to get up to speed with how to use drones, this event is a great opportunity to jump start your knowledge for using drones in your work.

Learn more about the Summit here.

8. Networking

Attendees at Commercial UAV Expo this year include people from top drone-related companies, government agencies, and some of the biggest companies in the world.

Where else can you rub shoulders with thousands of people who work with drones?

If you’re looking for work, to hire a drone pilot, to partner with another drone hardware or software company, or just to grow the list of contacts you have in the drone industry, Commercial UAV Expo is a great place to do it.

9. Live Outdoor Flying Demonstrations

Want to see the latest drone technology on display—not just in an exhibit hall, but actually in the air? Commercial UAV Expo’s live demos are the place to do it.

Here’s what Commercial UAV Expo has to say about this year’s live demos:

Leading vendors will demonstrate a range of drone applications. Not only will airframe and sensor capabilities be showcased, but a sophisticated AV set up will allow users to view resulting data sets and processing solutions for the full end-to-end view of the technology. Drone experts will be on-hand to narrate live scenarios and field questions from the audience.

Here are the companies participating in the live demos this year:

• Autel Robotics
• Event 38 Unmanned Systems
• Frontier Precision Unmanned
• ideaForge
• Skyfish

Learn more about this year’s live demos.

Want to Attend Commercial UAV Expo 2024?

Take advantage of early bird pricing, which gets you $300 off from now until July 19. Register here.

Hope to see you there!

The post 9 Reasons to Attend Commercial UAV Expo 2024 appeared first on UAV Coach.

Credit: Skydio

Thermal drones allow drone pilots to detect heat signatures from objects, people, and animals, which are invisible to the naked eye by making those signatures visible. This data can be useful for a range of applications, including inspections, search and rescue, and agriculture, just to name a few.

The practice of using a thermal drone is called aerial thermography, and there is a lot of work right now for drone pilots with infrared drone technology. Just having the technology to collect thermal data by air can get you work, but it’s even better if you know how to interpret thermal images to provide reporting.

Here’s everything we cover in this guide to thermal drones:

• What Is a Thermal Drone?
• Best Thermal Drones on the Market [New for 2024]
• Best Thermal Cameras for Drones
• What Are Thermal Drones Used For?
• How Much Does a Thermal Drone Cost?
• Aerial Thermography Jobs

 What Is a Thermal Drone?

Thermal drones have advanced in quality significantly over the last few years.

These days, there are several high-quality thermal drones on the market at approachable price points. And the thermal data they collect is getting better and better, allowing a host of industries to collect high-quality data to inform their work.

How Thermal Drones Work

Thermal drones operate by capturing infrared radiation emitted by objects or living creatures, including people. All objects emit infrared radiation as a function of their temperature.

The thermal camera on the drone detects this radiation and converts it into an image, called a thermogram, which shows temperature variations.

Thermal drones offer a significant advantage in numerous fields due to their ability to visualize temperature differences accurately and efficiently. When choosing a thermal drone, it’s important to consider the specific needs of your application to select the right model and features.

Here are the key elements of any infrared drone:

• Thermal sensors. From a data collection perspective, the core component of a thermal drone is its thermal sensor, which captures infrared radiation. High-quality sensors offer better resolution and temperature sensitivity.
• Image processing. Thermal cameras process the infrared radiation they capture into a visual image that represents temperature differences, allowing us to “see” these temperatures. Warmer areas appear as brighter spots, while cooler areas are darker (as you can see in the image on the left below).
• Integration with drone systems. The thermal camera is integrated with the drone’s navigation and control systems, allowing for real-time data transmission and analysis. This integration enables the drone to be used for a variety of applications, such as inspections, search and rescue, and environmental monitoring.

Credit: Parrot

Key Factors in Choosing a Thermal Drone

Here are the main factors you should keep in mind when looking for a thermal drone:

• Thermal camera resolution. Higher resolution cameras provide more detailed thermal images, which are crucial for applications requiring precise temperature measurements. For example, a 640×512 resolution is common in high-end models, offering clear and detailed thermal imagery.
• Frame rate. The frame rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), indicates how many times per second the thermal camera captures an image. Higher frame rates (e.g., 30 Hz) are good for applications involving fast-moving objects or real-time analysis.
• Flight time. Depending on the application, longer flight times may be necessary. Some thermal drones can fly for up to 55 minutes on a single charge, which is ideal for extensive inspections or search operations.
• Payload capacity. The drone’s ability to carry additional sensors or cameras can enhance its functionality. For example, a drone capable of carrying both a thermal camera and an RGB camera can provide comprehensive data for a variety of applications.
• Durability and weather resistance. Industrial applications often require drones that can withstand harsh environments. Features like an IP rating (e.g., IP45 or higher) indicate the drone’s resistance to dust and water.
• Integration with software. Many thermal drones come with proprietary software for data analysis. Features like radiometric data (providing temperature readings for each pixel) can be crucial for detailed inspections and reporting.
• Cost. Thermal drones range widely in price, from a few thousand dollars for basic models to tens of thousands for high-end drones with advanced features. Consider your budget and the specific needs of your application when making a decision. Note on this: we have a section below on how much thermal drones cost, which shares a range of price points.

Best Thermal Drones on the Market [New for 2024]

Thermal drones have evolved significantly over the last five to six years, offering advanced capabilities for a wide range of applications.

Here are the top five thermal drones on the market for 2024, featuring cutting-edge technology and high-performance thermal cameras.

1. Skydio X2E

The Skydio X2E is an advanced thermal drone designed for enterprise applications. It offers robust autonomous flight capabilities and high-resolution thermal imaging, making it ideal for public safety, defense, and infrastructure inspection.

Specs and Features

• Thermal camera. 320×256 resolution, FLIR Boson sensor.
• Visual camera. 12 MP with 4K HDR video.
• Flight time. Up to 35 minutes.
• Transmission range. 3.7 miles (6 km).
• Autonomy. Skydio Autonomy Enterprise, obstacle avoidance in complex environments.
• Durability. IP54 rating for weather resistance.

Learn more about the Skydio X2E.

2. FLIR SIRAS

The FLIR SIRAS is a versatile, rugged drone designed specifically for professional applications that require thermal imaging. It combines advanced thermal and visual imaging capabilities, making it ideal for tasks such as inspection, public safety, and search and rescue operations.

Specs and Features

• Thermal camera. 640×512 resolution, 30 Hz refresh rate, FLIR Boson sensor.
• Visual camera. 16 MP with 4K video recording.
• Flight time. Up to 31 minutes.
• Transmission range. 3.1 miles (5 km).
• Durability. IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, designed to operate in harsh environments.
• Advanced features. Radiometric thermal imaging for precise temperature measurements, dual-camera system for simultaneous thermal and visual imaging.

Learn more about the FLIR SIRAS.

3. Parrot Anafi Thermal

The Parrot Anafi Thermal is an infrared drone made specifically for professional aerial thermography, combining a high-resolution visual camera with a thermal imaging sensor. Its lightweight and portable design make it suitable for quick deployment in various scenarios, including building inspections, firefighting, and wildlife monitoring.

Specs and Features

• Thermal camera. 160×120 resolution, 9 Hz refresh rate.
• Visual camera. 21 MP with 4K HDR video.
• Flight time. Up to 26 minutes.
• Transmission range. 2.5 miles (4 km).

Learn more about the Parrot Anafi Thermal.

4. Autel Robotics EVO II Dual 640T

The Autel EVO II Dual 640T is another infrared drone made specifically for aerial thermography. It comes with high-resolution thermal imaging and an 8K visual camera, and it’s made for applications like firefighting, law enforcement, and industrial inspections, providing detailed thermal and visual data.

Specs and Features

• Thermal camera. 640×512 resolution, 30 Hz refresh rate.
• Visual camera. 8K resolution.
• Flight time. Up to 38 minutes.
• Transmission range. 5.6 miles (9 km).
• Durability. Rugged design with high wind resistance.

Learn more about the EVO II Dual 640T.

5. DJI Mavic 3T

The DJI Mavic 3T is a versatile thermal drone made for thermal imaging and high-resolution visual capture. Its compact design and powerful capabilities make it ideal for various applications, including search and rescue, inspection, and environmental monitoring.

Specs and Features

• Thermal camera. 640×512 resolution, 30 Hz refresh rate.
• Visual camera. 20 MP 4/3 CMOS sensor.
• Flight time. Up to 45 minutes.
• Transmission range. 9.3 miles (15 km).
• Advanced features: Omnidirectional obstacle sensing, Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems (APAS) 5.0.

Learn more about the Mavic 3T.

Best Thermal Cameras for Drones

As we mentioned in the opening to this guide, some drones come with thermal cameras and some drones can be outfitted with them.

Some experienced aerial thermographers prefer to seek out the best thermal camera that’s drone-compatible, and attach it to their preferred UAV.

And that means a guide to thermal drones wouldn’t be complete without a list not only of the top infrared drones on the market, but also a list of thermal cameras that can be used with drones—here’s our list of the top 5.

1. FLIR Vue Pro R

Credit: FLIR

The FLIR Vue Pro R is one of the most popular thermal cameras for drones, known for its high-resolution imaging and radiometric capabilities. It captures precise temperature data, making it ideal for professional applications like inspections, firefighting, and search and rescue.

Specs and Features

• Resolution. 640×512 or 336×256, depending on the model.
• Radiometric data. Provides temperature data for every pixel.
• Lens options. Multiple lens options (9 mm, 13 mm, 19 mm) for different fields of view.
• Drone compatibility. Integrates easily with most drone platforms, including DJI Matrice models.

Learn more about the FLIR Vue Pro R.

2. DJI Zenmuse H20T

Credit: DJI

The DJI Zenmuse H20T is a powerful thermal camera designed for the DJI Matrice 350 RTK drone. It features a quad-sensor system that includes a high-resolution thermal camera, making it suitable for complex and demanding operations.

Specs and Features

• Thermal resolution. 640×512.
• Additional sensors. 20 MP zoom camera, 12 MP wide camera, and laser rangefinder.
• Advanced features. AI Spot-Check, PinPoint, and Smart Track.
• Drone compatibility. Seamlessly integrates with the DJI Matrice 350 RTK and other Matrice drones, like the M300.

Learn more about the DJI Zenmuse H20T.

3. FLIR Duo Pro R

Credit: FLIR

The FLIR Duo Pro R combines thermal imaging with a high-definition visual camera, offering versatile imaging capabilities for professional applications. This dual-sensor camera is suitable for a wide range of missions, including mapping, inspections, and surveillance.

Specs and Features

• Thermal resolution. 640×512 or 336×256.
• Visual resolution. 4K color video.
• Radiometric data. Radiometric thermal imaging for precise temperature readings.
• GPS integration. Built-in GPS for geotagging images.
• Drone compatibility. Integrates easily with most drone platforms, including DJI Matrice models.

Learn more about the FLIR Duo Pro R.

4. Workswell WIRIS Pro

Credit: Workswell WIRIS

The Workswell WIRIS Pro is a high-performance thermal camera designed for industrial inspections and scientific research. It offers advanced thermal and visual imaging capabilities, making it a versatile tool for professionals.

Specs and Features

• Thermal resolution. 640×512.
• Visual resolution. Full HD camera.
• Radiometric accuracy. High precision in temperature measurement.
• Drone compatibility. Integrates with several drone platforms, including the DJI Matrice 300 and 350.

Learn more about the Workswell WIRIS Pro.

5. Teledyne FLIR Vue TZ20-R

Credit: FLIR

The Teledyne FLIR Vue TZ20-R is a dual thermal camera payload designed for drones. It features two Boson thermal cameras with a continuous zoom capability, providing detailed thermal imaging for a variety of applications.

Specs and Features

• Thermal resolution. Dual 640×512.
• Zoom capability. 20x continuous zoom.
• Radiometric data. Radiometric thermal imaging for precise temperature measurement.
• Drone compatibility. Integrates easily with most drone platforms, including DJI Matrice models.

Learn more about the Teledyne FLIR Vue TZ20-R.

What Are Thermal Drones Used For?

Thermal drones can be used in a big range of applications across multiple industries, helping companies improve both efficiency and safety in the workplace.

Here’s a list of the top 13 applications where infrared drones are being used these days, with top use cases listed for each one.

1. Archaeological Surveys

In archaeology, thermal drones are used to identify subsurface structures and artifacts. Thermal imaging can reveal differences in ground temperature caused by buried structures, helping archaeologists pinpoint excavation sites without intrusive methods.

Top Use Cases

• Identifying ancient structures and artifacts below the surface.
• Mapping excavation sites for archaeological digs.
• Monitoring and preserving heritage sites.

2. Agriculture

In agriculture, thermal drones help farmers monitor crop health by detecting variations in temperature and moisture levels. These drones can identify areas of a field that need irrigation, fertilization, or pest control, leading to more efficient and sustainable farming practices.

Top Use Cases

• Detecting irrigation needs by identifying dry patches in fields.
• Monitoring crop health and spotting diseases or pest infestations early.
• Assessing the effectiveness of agricultural treatments.

Credit: Texas A&M

3. Disaster Response and Recovery

Thermal drones play a crucial role in disaster response and recovery efforts. They can quickly assess the extent of damage, locate survivors, and provide real-time data to emergency responders, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of disaster management.

Top Use Cases

• Assessing damage after natural disasters like earthquakes or hurricanes.
• Locating survivors in collapsed structures or debris.
• Providing real-time situational awareness to emergency response teams.

4. Environmental Monitoring

Thermal drones are used in environmental monitoring to track changes in ecosystems, monitor pollution, and assess the impact of human activities. These drones provide valuable data for environmental protection and management.

Top Use Cases

• Monitoring water temperatures in rivers and lakes to assess ecological health.
• Detecting pollution sources and tracking their spread.
• Assessing the impact of deforestation and land-use changes.

5. Firefighting and Hazard Assessment

Firefighting teams use thermal drones to detect hotspots in burning structures and wildfires. Firefighting drones provide real-time data on fire spread, helping firefighters strategize their response and prevent further damage.

Top Use Cases

• Identifying hotspots in buildings and wildfires.
• Monitoring fire spread to aid in strategic planning.
• Assessing post-fire damage for recovery efforts.

Credit: FLIR

6. HVAC System Inspections

Thermal drones can inspect HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems in large buildings and industrial plants. They help identify inefficiencies, leaks, and areas needing maintenance, contributing to energy savings and system longevity.

Top Use Cases

• Detecting leaks in HVAC systems.
• Identifying areas of heat loss or inefficiency.
• Conducting routine maintenance inspections to prevent system failures.

7. Industrial Inspections and Maintenance

Thermal drones play a critical role in industrial inspections by providing non-invasive and detailed thermal imagery of structures and equipment. This application helps in detecting faults, leaks, and inefficiencies, ensuring timely maintenance and reducing operational downtime.

Top Use Cases

• Inspecting power lines and electrical grids for overheating components.
• Monitoring pipelines for leaks and irregular temperature changes.
• Assessing the integrity of buildings and infrastructure.

8. Law Enforcement and Surveillance

Law enforcement agencies use thermal drones for surveillance and tactical operations. Police drones equipped with thermal cameras can track suspects, gather intelligence, and ensure officer safety by providing thermal imagery in low-light or obscured conditions.

Top Use Cases

• Conducting nighttime surveillance operations.
• Tracking suspects in low-visibility conditions.
• Enhancing officer safety during tactical missions.

9. Maritime Search and Rescue

Thermal drones are used in maritime environments to locate people and objects in the water. Their ability to detect heat signatures makes them particularly useful for night-time operations or in poor visibility conditions.

Top Use Cases

• Locating individuals in distress at sea.
• Monitoring coastal areas for illegal activities.
• Assisting in maritime disaster response and recovery operations.

10. Roof Inspections

Thermal drones are invaluable in the construction and real estate industries for inspecting roofs. They can identify issues like leaks, insulation problems, and structural damage without the need for physical access, making roof inspections safer and more efficient.

Top Use Cases

• Detecting leaks and water damage in roofing materials.
• Identifying insulation deficiencies and energy loss.
• Assessing structural damage and integrity.

Credit: Commercial UAV News

11. Search and Rescue

Thermal drones are widely used in search and rescue operations to locate missing persons in challenging environments. By detecting body heat, SAR drones can quickly find individuals in dense forests, mountainous areas, or disaster sites. This technology significantly improves the efficiency and success rate of rescue missions.

Top Use Cases

• Locating lost hikers or climbers in wilderness areas.
• Identifying survivors in natural disaster scenarios like earthquakes or floods.
• Assisting in nighttime search operations where visibility is low.

12. Solar Panel Inspections

Thermal drones are extensively used to inspect solar panels for faults and inefficiencies. They can quickly identify hotspots and underperforming cells, which helps in maintaining optimal performance and extending the lifespan of solar panels.

Top Use Cases

• Detecting hotspots and faulty cells in solar panels.
• Assessing overall efficiency and performance of solar farms.
• Conducting regular maintenance checks to ensure optimal operation.

Credit: Skydio

13. Wildlife Monitoring and Conservation

Thermal drones can help in wildlife monitoring by tracking animals and poachers without disturbing the natural habitat. This application is crucial for conservation efforts, helping to protect endangered species and manage wildlife populations effectively.

Top Use Cases

• Tracking wildlife movement and behavior for research purposes.
• Detecting and deterring poaching activities.
• Monitoring endangered species in their natural habitats.

How Much Does a Thermal Drone Cost?

The cost of thermal drones varies widely based on their capabilities, features, and intended applications.

Prices can range from a few thousand dollars for entry-level models to tens of thousands for high-end, professional-grade drones equipped with advanced thermal imaging technology. Keep in mind that the cost could be even higher if you buy a drone and a thermal camera separately—but that high cost may well be worth it if you need high-quality data for the work you plan to do.

Below are the cost factors and typical price ranges for thermal drones, broken out into entry-level, mid-range, and high-end.

Entry-Level Thermal Drones

Entry-level thermal drones are generally suitable for hobbyists or small businesses that require basic thermal imaging capabilities. These drones often come with lower resolution cameras and limited features, but still provide valuable thermal data for less demanding applications.

Price Range

$2,000 – $5,000

Examples

• DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual. Equipped with a FLIR Lepton thermal microcamera and a 4K visual camera, this drone is suitable for basic thermal inspections and search and rescue missions.
• Parrot Anafi Thermal. This compact and lightweight drone offers a 160×120 resolution thermal camera and a 21 MP visual camera, making it an affordable option for small-scale operations.

The Parrot Anafi Thermal | Credit: Parrot

Mid-Range Thermal Drones

Mid-range thermal drones offer a balance between cost and performance. They are suitable for professional applications that require higher resolution thermal imaging and additional features, such as extended flight time and enhanced durability.

Price Range

$5,000 – $15,000

Examples

• Autel EVO II Dual 640T. Featuring a 640×512 thermal camera and an 8K visual camera, this drone is designed for detailed thermal inspections, firefighting, and law enforcement.
• DJI Mavic 3T. This versatile drone comes with a 640×512 thermal camera and a 20 MP visual camera, offering excellent thermal imaging capabilities for a variety of professional applications.

The Mavic 3T | Credit: DJI

High-End Thermal Drones

High-end thermal drones are designed for industrial-grade applications requiring the highest levels of precision, reliability, and functionality. These drones come with advanced features such as high-resolution thermal cameras, long flight times, and robust build quality.

Price Range

$15,000 – $30,000+

Examples

• Skydio X2E. This high-end commercial drone features advanced autonomy and AI-driven obstacle avoidance, making it ideal for complex inspections, search and rescue operations, and public safety missions. Its dual-camera system includes a high-resolution thermal camera and a 12 MP visual camera, providing comprehensive imaging capabilities.
• DJI Matrice 350 RTK + Zenmuse H20T. This professional-grade drone features a quad-sensor payload, including a high-resolution thermal camera, making it ideal for complex inspections, search and rescue operations, and environmental monitoring.

The Matrice 350 RTK | Credit: Skydio

Factors Affecting the Cost of Thermal Drones

Several factors can impact the cost of a thermal drone, including:

• Thermal camera resolution. Higher resolution cameras provide more detailed thermal images, which are crucial for precise temperature measurements and detailed inspections. Higher resolution typically means a higher price.
• Flight time. Drones with longer flight times are more expensive due to the advanced battery technology required. Extended flight times are essential for large-scale inspections and search operations.
• Durability and weather resistance. Industrial-grade drones designed to withstand harsh environments and adverse weather conditions tend to be more expensive due to their robust construction and materials.
• Advanced features. Features such as RTK positioning, AI capabilities, obstacle avoidance, and dual-sensor payloads add to the cost of thermal drones. These features enhance the drone’s functionality and versatility, making them suitable for specialized applications.

Additional Costs

• Software and data analysis tools. Many thermal drones come with proprietary software for data analysis and reporting. These tools can be an additional cost but are crucial for extracting valuable insights from the thermal data.
• Training and certification. Operators may need training and certification to use thermal drones effectively and comply with regulations. Training programs can vary in cost depending on their depth and duration.
• Maintenance and repairs. Regular maintenance is necessary to keep your thermal drone in optimal condition. Repair costs can also add up, especially for high-end models.

Aerial Thermography Jobs

There are a lot of job opportunities in aerial thermography (i.e., flying a thermal drone to collect data).

Each of these requires specific training, equipment, and knowledge. By obtaining the necessary certifications and investing in the right technology, drone pilots can tap into these lucrative markets and provide valuable services across various industries.

1. Building and Roof Inspections

Thermal drones are used to inspect buildings and roofs for energy efficiency, detecting heat loss, and identifying areas that may require maintenance.

Key Information

• Salary range. $50 – $300 per hour
• Training: Part 107 certification, specific training in thermography
• Equipment. Mid to high-end thermal drone, software for image analysis

2. Solar Panel Inspections

Drones with thermal cameras can quickly identify malfunctioning or damaged solar panels by detecting temperature anomalies.

Key Information

• Salary range. $75 – $200 per hour
• Training. Part 107 certification, training in solar panel inspection
• Equipment. High-resolution thermal drone, data processing software

3. Electrical Inspections

Thermal drones are used to inspect electrical infrastructure, such as power lines and transformers, for overheating and potential failures.

Key Information

• Salary range. $100 – $300 per hour
• Training. Part 107 certification, electrical safety training
• Equipment. Industrial-grade thermal drone, safety gear

4. Agriculture and Crop Health Monitoring

In agriculture, thermal drones help monitor crop health by identifying areas affected by pests, diseases, or water stress through temperature variations.

Key Information

• Salary range. $50 – $150 per hour
• Training. Part 107 certification, agricultural knowledge
• Equipment. Thermal drone, specialized agricultural software

5. Firefighting and Search and Rescue

Thermal drones assist in firefighting by detecting hotspots and helping locate individuals in search and rescue missions, especially in low-visibility conditions.

Key Information

• Salary range. $60 – $200 per hour
• Training. Part 107 certification, emergency response training
• Equipment. High-end thermal drone, live-feed software

6. Wildlife Management

Thermal drones are used in wildlife management to monitor animal populations, track movement, and locate animals in dense forests or at night.

Key Information

• Salary Range: $50 – $150 per hour
• Training: Part 107 certification, wildlife biology knowledge
• Equipment: Thermal drone, GPS tracking software

7. Insurance Claim Inspections

Insurance companies use thermal drones to assess damage claims by identifying areas of heat loss or water intrusion in properties.

Key Information

• Salary Range: $75 – $250 per hour
• Training: Part 107 certification, insurance inspection training
• Equipment: Thermal drone, reporting software

8. Environmental Monitoring

Thermal drones help monitor environmental changes, such as deforestation or water temperature variations, aiding in conservation efforts.

Key Information

• Salary Range: $50 – $200 per hour
• Training: Part 107 certification, environmental science knowledge
• Equipment: Thermal drone, environmental monitoring software

The post Thermal Drones: The Top Infrared Drones on the Market and More [New for 2024] appeared first on UAV Coach.

We’re also covering a leaked video of the DJI Air 3S, a drone inspection of the world’s tallest tree, Skydio’s partnership with Axon to offer a DFR solution, and a new drone that carries a magnetometer from Skyfront.

Now let’s get to those links!

Senate Version of DJI Ban Will Be Introduced to Congress This Week

Credit: DJI

Last week, we reported that the DJI ban law—formally called the Countering CCP Drones Act—had passed in the House and was awaiting a vote in the Senate. To help it pass, the law has been rolled into the 2025 NDAA, a large defense funding bill. In order to be made law, the Act must now pass in the Senate and then be signed by the president. When the House passed the law, we expected it would take some time before there would be any action in the Senate. But Senator Jon Tester of Montana has announced plans to introduce a Senate version of the DJI ban this week, signaling an appetite for pushing it forward more quickly than anticipated.

If the DJI ban becomes law, DJI will not be able to sell new DJI drones in the U.S. (Existing drones will be allowed—so if you already own one or buy a new one, you’ll still be able to use it.) Follow the link below to read our in-depth guide to the DJI ban, including how you can get involved in stopping it.

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Leaked Video Claims to Show DJI Air 3S

深圳有人拍到大疆开发机试飞，据传就是DJI AIR 3S！（含视频）https://t.co/svFrTcbXbl pic.twitter.com/Os5EW1UCyP

— SBDJI (@SBDJI_CC) June 20, 2024

First there were claims of a DJI Air 3S leak, which turned out to be bogus. Then last week there was a DJI Mavic 4 leak, which seemed on the level. Now, we have what seems to be a legitimate Air 3S leak. But it’s unclear if DJI is working on both an Air 3S and a Mavic 4, or if we’re seeing leaked images of the same drone and we just don’t know what it is yet. Either way, it seems clear that DJI is working on a new drone—and it may be released as soon as August. Watch the video above to see what all the buzz is about, and stay tuned for more leaks on this front.

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World’s Tallest Tree by Drone

At over 2,200 years old and 275 feet tall, the General Sherman is the world’s largest known living tree. The tree is a giant sequoia, and it’s located in Sequoia National Park. Recently, the US National Park Service used a drone for the first time ever to check up on the tree’s health. The drone they used was Freefly Alta’s Astro Prime, a commercial platform that is, according to the Park Service, both NDAA-compliant and Blue-UAS approved. During the drone inspection the Park Service was looking for signs of damage from a native bark beetle, as well as any other damage they could address due to factors like drought. The Astro Prime used both a LiDAR scanner and its native HD video camera to collect data on the sequoia. In addition to collecting drone data, the Park Service also had volunteers scale the tree with ropes and incorporated satellite imagery into its inspection.

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Skydio Partners with Axon on DFR Solution

Credit: Skydio

Skydio and Axon have partnered to launch a solution for public safety agencies that includes a Drone as First Responder (DFR) offering. Axon first made a name for itself with the taser. But it’s been very active in the drone industry over the last several years, creating software to support public safety drone operations and integrating that software with its other software solutions, which are purpose-built for first responders.

Here’s everything the two companies are offering in their public safety drone solution:

• U.S.-made autonomous drones
• Onsite docking stations
• Integrated flight control software from Skydio
• Real-time operations, real-time crime center (RTCC) capabilities and evidence management from Axon
• Fleet and program management through Axon Air Powered by DroneSense
• Airspace awareness and deconfliction from Dedrone’s innovative technology, enabling DFR BVLOS ops without the need for visual observers

DFR programs have become a hot topic recently, with more and more police and fire departments turning to drones to get immediate intel at the scene of unfolding emergencies. And software is a critical piece of any successful DFR program. BRINC recently put out its own software-and-hardware DFR solution, and we’re sure to see more players enter this emerging space before too long.

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Skyfront Launches New Drone Magnetometry Solution

Credit: Skyfront

Sensors and software are the future of commercial drone ops. Sensors collect new and more sophisticated data, and software helps interpret that data. Magnetometry is one area where new sensors are looking promising for drones, and Skyfront is leading the charge. A few years ago, we heard about inspection companies retrofitting drones with magnetometers so they could do things like fly over land owned by oil companies and identify the location of old, forgotten pipes. Now, companies like Skyfront are pioneering drones made specifically for this kind of data collection.

The Skyfront MagniPhy is the latest drone magnetometer solution from the company. It’s designed for a range of applications, including surveying, mineral prospecting, detecting orphaned wellheads, and finding landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO). The MagniPhy is compatible with third-party magnetometer sensors and a wide range of platforms including those made by DJI, ArduPilot, and PX4-based drones. It was developed in collaboration with Geometrics, the maker of the MagArrow II UAS-enabled magnetometer.

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Make sure to sign up for our free weekly newsletter using the button below so you can get our weekly newsletter every Saturday, with this roundup and our other featured stories from the week.

The post Drone News Roundup: Senate Version of DJI Ban Law Will Be Introduced This Week, Leaked Video of DJI Air 3S, and More! appeared first on UAV Coach.

We’re also covering a webinar we’re hosting on how to build a drone business, a new massive drone light show from Disney, drones and AI protecting people from shark attacks in Australia, a big win for drone pilots in Hollywood, and the appointment of Johan Mlouka as VP of Sales for Voliro.

Now on to the links!

First DJI Mavic 4 Leak

Public beta tester left his #mavic4 on the streets to be caught on video by a bystander. We see a air 3 like design but with a larger camera we recognize from the Mavic 3 pro. Could this be the widely desired 1 inch? I’ll take a long shot: August 1st pic.twitter.com/OikebTGbMK

— Jasper Ellens | X27 (@JasperEllens) June 12, 2024

Drone insider Jasper Ellens seems has gotten his hands on what looks like a snapshot of a Mavic 4 prototype. The drone in the photo seems to have an airframe like the Air 3, but with a larger camera, like the kind we’d expect on a Mavic 3 Pro. If you recall, there was a debunked Air 3S leak a few weeks back—now it’s looking like that leak may have had some truth to it. Ellens predicts an August 1 launch date for the Mavic 4—if that’s right, we’re sure to see a lot more leaks in the coming weeks.

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Webinar: How to Build a Drone Business

Need help starting a drone business? Or already have one, and looking for tips to help it grow? Join us next Friday, June 28 at 3pm ET for a webinar focused on “Drone Business Foundations: The Essential Building Blocks for a Successful Drone Venture.”

• Market opportunities and growth trends in the drone industry
• What you should do post-Part 107 to start your drone business
• How to identify the ideal drone services customer
• Real-world insights from successful drone business coach Eno Umoh

SIGN UP NOW

Disney Debuts 800-Drone Light Show

Disney’s latest drone light show uses an impressive 800 drones to create classic Disney characters in the night sky, including Buzz Lightyear and Peter Pan. Called “Disney Dreams That Soar,” the show features some seriously big creations, including a 213-foot tall Death Star, from Star Wars, and a 328-foot tall Big Ben, from Peter Pan. The show itself spans 524 feet, making it one of the biggest drone light shows on record, both in terms of the number of drones used and in terms of the sheer amount of space covered. “Disney Dreams That Soar” is currently being shown for free at the Disney Springs resort mall district—but you can catch it right here, in this video.

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Drones and AI Help Prevent Shark Attacks in Australia

Credit: Department of Primary Industries

Australia has 100,000 beaches, and most of its population lives near the coast. The country is also a global hotspot for shark attacks—last year, it had 40% of the shark-related deaths in the world, an increase from previous years. To prevent these attacks, the country is turning to drones. At the moment, Australia has the largest coastal drone-surveillance operation in the world. The operation uses drones flown by pilots who can see the UAV, as well as using remotely operated drones and drones that can cover long distances, with the incorporation of AI to automatically spot sharks in aerial footage. The drones are part of a larger effort that includes nets, tracking devices, and new buoys made to identify the presence of sharks in real time.

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Hollywood Drone Pilots Score Major Union Win

Image source

Drone pilots in Hollywood scored a major win recently: They’ll now be covered under union contracts that previously only applied to those working cameras on the ground. The International Cinematographers Guild (IATSE Local 600) announced the change recently as the outcome of a dispute with major studios that began over whether specific drone pilots were covered under its contract. Moving forward, union films and T.V. productions made with major studios will have to cover drone camera crews and pay union benefits to drone crew members.

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Johan Mlouka Joins Voliro as VP of Sales

Credit: Voliro

Johan Mlouka, former head of North America and LATAM sales for Flyability, has joined Voliro as its VP of Sales. Mlouka brings with him over a decade of experience working with drones and robotics for inspections. At Flyability, he helped build the company’s market in North America to become the company’s largest in the world, leading the way in establishing the use of drones in inspections throughout the drone industry. Voliro makes drones specifically for outdoor inspections, with a special focus on using drones for ultrasonic thickness (UT) testing. In the new role, Mlouka will oversee global sales efforts for Voliro, with a particular focus on expanding the company’s footprint in the North American market.

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Make sure to sign up for our free weekly newsletter using the button below so you can get our weekly newsletter every Saturday, with this roundup and our other featured stories from the week.

The post Drone News Roundup: First DJI Mavic 4 Leak, Tips for Starting a Drone Business, and More! appeared first on UAV Coach.