Air technologies encompass a wide array of innovations designed to operate within the airspace. These technologies are employed for data capture, delivery of goods or transportation of people.
They can be remotely piloted, operated autonomously through pre-programmed software or a combination of both methods. The world of aerial technology includes drones, Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS), Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAV), Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions, each contributing to a rapidly evolving airspace landscape.
Commercial applications for UAVs have grown rapidly, including use in agriculture, satellite imaging and mineral exploration. While this market has rapidly grown over the past five years, regulations and public opinion concerning the domestic use of UAVs has hindered market growth.
- Agriculture: UAVs are used in a variety of ways in the agricultural industry from soil health monitoring to seed planting, fertilizer application, irrigation planning, weather analysis and many other use cases.
- Logistics and delivery: Companies have been exploring drone delivery services for packages and medical supplies, although regulatory hurdles and safety concerns have slowed widespread implementation.
- Surveying and mapping: UAVs are used for land surveying and mapping, which is essential for site planning, exploration and construction. They provide accurate topographical data and 3D models of the terrain.
- Oil & gas: UAVs are used to inspect pipelines, wellheads, storage tanks and other critical infrastructure. They can provide high-resolution images and videos of equipment, detecting potential issues like corrosion, leaks or structural damage. Drones equipped with sensors can monitor environmental conditions in and around oil and gas facilities. This includes detecting gas emissions, oil spills and assessing the impact on local ecosystems.
