Commercial drones are becoming more and more commonly used in so many industries in 2024. From agriculture and mining to real estate and construction, this technology is really changing the game.
Naturally, the drone market has drastically expanded to meet this demand, and there are seemingly endless options available now, which can make choosing the ideal drone for your business a little tricky. With that in mind, here are a few things you should think about before chasing a commercial drone.
Table of Contents
Understanding Your Business Needs
First of all, you need to carefully consider what you might need a drone for within your business and exactly how it will be used. Assessing your company’s unique requirements is an essential first step and will guide the rest of the process of purchasing a drone.
The intended use, be it aerial photography, surveying, inspection, delivery, etc., will help you decide between different types of drones, what features you’ll have to prioritize, and how much you should be spending.
Key Features to Consider
When you’re clear on what your drone will be used for, you need to consider which features are most crucial for its intended purpose. Different features and capabilities will be relevant to you depending on your industry and the tasks your drone will be performing.
For example, you might need a very high-resolution camera for media work, real estate, or inspection. Some drones have AI integration, which can be beneficial for automation and data processing. A drone used in agriculture might need particularly good monitoring or tracking capabilities.
Types of Commercial Drones
Aside from all the various different features you can look for to meet your needs, there are also specific types of commercial drones for you to consider.
Multi-rotor drones, single-rotor drones, fixed-wing drones, and hybrid VTOL drones are examples of the main different types you can look into, and each offers its own advantages and disadvantages. Each type also has its own specific use cases
Regulations and Compliance
While operating a drone for personal and recreational use isn’t regulated, using a drone for commercial operations requires compliance with federal law.
You need to ensure compliance in a few areas, including getting a certification from the FAA and registering your drone. There are then further regulations surrounding the size and weight of your aircraft, where you are permitted to fly, etc. All of these details should be researched and kept in mind when making a purchase.
Evaluating Costs
Of course, you also need to consider your budget and how much you are willing to spend on a commercial drone. When planning your budget, you’ll need to think about the initial costs of the aircraft itself as well as other additional expenses. Extra costs you’ll incur can include training, as well as maintenance and upgrades you might make down the line. However, it is also crucial to consider the cost savings that can be brought about by investing in a commercial drone, especially in industries like construction, mining, and agriculture.
